Adam, Eve and other big cats arrive in Eden

GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - Today, 12 big cats arrived at their new home between Mossel Bay and Oudtshoorn after an arduous, yet highly successful journey from Groot Marico. This also marked the relocation of the Ubuntu Wildlife Sanctuary, formerly based in the North West Province.

Ubuntu, among other goals, strives to establish a temporary or permanent sanctuary for the rescue and rehabilitation of captive animals.

The organisation was founded in 2015 by group of individuals from around the globe, sharing the vision of creating a unique and ethical wildlife conservation sanctuary. The big cats released, were all submitted to most challenging circumstances prior to their rescue by Ubuntu.

Approximately 50 people were involved with the relocation to the Western Cape, dubbed The Great Trek and drove in convoy to the new Ubuntu. The journey started on Saturday, 22 May and the release of the animals commenced from 12:30 today, 23 May.

First to be released were quite appropriately Adam and Eve. Adam, however was a little slow to leave his crate, with Eve already being quite comfy in their new spacious enclosure.

Also released today, were the so-called Ukraine 5, five lions that were rescued from the Ukraine and spent nearly 70 hours in crates to arrive back in Africa, where they belong. A lion and two tigers rescued from Argentina are also part of the Ubuntu family that was rehomed today.

Photo gallery: Big cats arrive in Eden

Ultimately, Ubuntu will house 14 big cats. Other developments, including an orphanage for rhinos are envisaged. Ubuntu was relocated to the Western Province, due to its’ low crime statistics pertaining to poaching. Ubuntu can only be accessed via guarded entrance.

Jurg Olsen, who established Jukani in Mossel Bay more than a decade ago, acted as head of operations and animal welfare. Lukas Swart, is the main co-ordinator of the relocation.

Photos: Cornelle Carstens