Young lion reunites with parents after illegal sale

The lion cub, who was illegally sold as a cub, was reunited with his parents.

Staff at Wildcat Sanctuary in Minnesota had rescued nine lions from a roadside zoo in Quebec, Canada, but discovered Kiros was not in the pride and received a surprising phone call a few months later.

A young lion, a relative of rescued creatures Kim and Carl, was looking for a den, and staff checked photos and records to confirm it was Kiros.

The cub was seized by authorities and taken to an accredited zoo; He stayed there for 18 months and the legal proceedings regarding the roadside facility were resolved.

After securing the international parents, Wildcat Sanctuary staff made a 2,280-mile round trip to bring Kiros (which means Lord) back, and Kim and Carl watched with curiosity as he returned to the facility.

Tammy Thies, founder and executive director of The Wildcat Sanctuary, told People magazine: “From the moment we heard about the missing cub, we were hopeful that one day we would find him.

“It’s incredibly powerful to discover that Kiros not only survived, but was able to make it to the shelter where his parents now live. Stories like this remind us why rescue efforts are important.”

“Kiros’ story highlights the cruelty of roadside zoos and the illegal pet trade.

“But it also shows what is possible when animal welfare organisations, accredited shelters and compassionate supporters work together to give these animals the lives they deserve.

“This is a new beginning for Kiros. After everything he’s been through, he can now relax in his forever home.”