The South African Predator Association (SAPA) announced that it will donate three lions to the Fairy Glen Nature Reserve in Worcester.
Also read: Three lions euthanised after suffering severe burns in Fairy Glen blaze
The announcement comes after Fairy Glen’s lions had to be euthanised due to serious injuries they sustained during the fire that ravaged 2 200 hectares of the area for six days.
On Friday, 2 February, the Cape Winelands District Municipality announced that the fires had been contained.
One male and two female lions were seriously injured on Friday, 26 January, when they got trapped in the blaze. According to Pieter de Jager, the owner of Fairy Glen, the decision to euthanise the animals was made between him, members of the SPCA and conservationists.
The lions were raised on the farm since they were cubs.
‘We extend our deepest condolences to you and the entire Fairy Glen Nature Reserve Worchester community for the devastating loss of three lions in the recent field fires,’ says Hannes Wessels, the president of SAPA. ‘Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this tragic event.’
The organisation says it will donate three lions from reputable breeders in solidarity with Fairy Glen’s commitment to wildlife conservation. ‘These lions boast some of the finest genetics, and we believe they will make a meaningful contribution to the restoration of your reserve,’ adds Wessels.
‘Please consider this donation as a token of our shared dedication to preserving our natural heritage. We hope that these lions will not only replenish the population but also bring renewed vitality to Fairy Glen Nature Reserve.
‘Our thoughts remain with you during this challenging time, and we are here to assist in any way possible.’
Also read:
Firefighting efforts continue in Cape Winelands despite cooler weather
Picture: Fairy Glen Nature Reserve / Facebook
