Starving Lions in Sudan Zoo

The Wild Welfare team is saddened and shocked to read the case of several emaciated lions at a zoo in Sudan.

The photos splashed across social media and news outlets alike are both harrowing and cause for much concern but they also offer a startling reminder as to why organisations like ourselves exist.

Unfortunately, while Wild Welfare is not in a position to offer emergency relief in this particular case, we regularly see concerning welfare issues that remain consistently prevalent around the world.

There are animals suffering right now and we aim to end that, but it is not enough to ‘prop-up’ a facility with financial support or short-term help. The changes that need to be made to ensure that cases similar to these starving lions are a thing of the past, are much more complicated than offering temporary aid.

We are so thankful for the charities that are able to offer immediate help, abating the initial problem but sadly it will not put a stop to horrific practices like this appearing in the future. To achieve that, we aim to build and facilitate long-term partnerships that offer support, guidance and empowerment.

We understand that in this particular case in Khartoum, Sudan, the political unrest and economical crisis is partially to blame for the appalling conditions that these lions are in.

However, their case is a startling reminder that there are many thousands of facilities globally where animals undergo similar treatment and require immediate attention in order to receive urgent care and a dramatic improvement in welfare standards.

If you are looking for a way in which to help with this effort, ensure the only animal facilities you visit are ones that prioritise animal welfare above all else.

~ENDS~

Notes to Editors

For more information or interview requests please contact Wild Welfare on communications@wildwelfare.org

Wild Welfare is a global organisation committed to improving animal welfare for captive wild animals. By uniting the world’s leading zoos, zoo associations and animal welfare organisations, we build trusting partnerships that help provide long-term solutions to critical wild animal welfare issues.

Our vision is to end the suffering of captive wild animals around the world and ensure full and sustainable protection is given to all animals in human care. Find out more at www.wildwelfare.org. Registered charity in England (no.1165941).

Image © Osman Salih