The Bloemfontein Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has recently shared some heart-warming photos of the animals in their new enclosures where they are being taken care of and enjoying their new environment.

The process of removing the animals started on 8 March 2020 and continued until 23 March 2020. This is according to senior inspector of the Bloemfontein SPCA, Reinet Meyer, who told Bloemfontein Courant that the animals are now in better care. According to her, the tigers were the most difficult to get out of their enclosure due to the fact that their sleeping area was two metres under water and the only way to get to them was through their sleeping area.

The two tigers, Shevar and Sharukh, are said to love their new environment at Lions Rock as they are now done with their initial adaption period. The two brothers are also very curious about their new neighbours and the smell of other tigers. Both are in good health and happy at their new home. Various stakeholders got on board to help relocate and take care of the animals.

Dr Karin Lourens with Nicci Wright and Lauren Beckley from Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital also assisted with the healthcare of the animals. Other animals, such as primates, birds and an African wild dog, have been taken in by Birds of Eden, Monkeyland and Jukani, where they are enjoying their new homes. Love Lions Alive Project Sanctuary has also proudly been involved in the rescue and relocation of four big cats.

Dr Johan Joubert and Glen Vera from Born Free at Shamwari have taken in two leopards that were later released into bigger camps. 

Mornay Ludicke from Feedgrow has taken in deer, while De Wildt has taken in two hyenas.

Bloemfontein Courant/Pierce van Heerden