News & Updates

The latest news, blogs and features from Born Free.

Press contact: [email protected]+44 (0)1403 240 170
An elephant stood on dusty ground, with buildings in the background

Portugal’s last circus elephant to begin new chapter at Pangea

Julie the elephant will join Kariba at the Born Free-backed elephant sanctuary – the first of its kind in Europe.
A male lion lies lazily alongside a large pool of water

Brian Blessed OBE speaks up for Africa’s lions

The iconic actor and long-term Born Free friend shares his support for our work to protect lions in Kenya, and why they need help now more than ever.
Photograph of a cheetah sitting in dry grass, blending into the natural savanna environment. The cheetah's spotted coat and alert posture highlight its adaptation for camouflage and hunting in open habitats.

Tribute to Timkat

We are deeply saddened to report the death of Timkat, a beloved member of our adopted Cheetah Family, at our rescue centre in Ethiopia.
Two separate photos of two leopards, in a montage side by side, both looking towards the camera with green vegetation in the background

Two years today: update on two rescued leopards

In May 2024, we were over the moon to welcome leopards Alda and Ginny to our sanctuary in South Africa. Confiscated from dire conditions in Poland, did mum and daughter settle in?
A barbary macaque sitting on the pavement with a chain around its neck

Calling for action this International Macaque Week

It’s time to celebrate these remarkable and diverse monkeys. But it’s also time for action – macaques are heavily exploited and they need your help.
Photograph showing close-up of two rhinoceroses in grassy habitat, with one rhino's head and horn touching the side of the other rhino's body. The image highlights texture of rhino skin, prominent horns, and natural environment.

South Africa progresses rhino horn trade plans

New plans published this month could mean disastrous impact for wild rhinos.
Photograph of a giraffe inside an enclosure viewed through horizontal bars, with a child’s silhouette in the foreground. The setting features a large arched window providing natural light and hay covering the floor, emphasizing a zoo environment.

200 years of zoos: a time for reflection, not celebration

The untimely death of a young elephant at London Zoo led to the start of our charity. As the zoo marks their bicentenary, we consider 200 years of keeping wild animals captive in the UK’s capital.
Photograph showing two hyenas standing in tall grass during golden hour lighting. The scene highlights their spotted fur patterns and attentive expressions in a natural savanna habitat.

From conflict to coexistence – changing perceptions to protect hyenas in Kenya

Hyenas are often the forgotten carnivore of conservation work, but Born Free is stepping up to help improve attitudes towards these fascinating animals.
Photograph of a male lion walking through dry grassland, showcasing its dark mane and muscular body. The scene highlights natural habitat and behaviour of lions in the wild.

The return of Kimeu: every lion counts in Kenya

Kimeu’s story offers a fascinating insight into the power dynamics of a lion pride.
Photograph of a lioness sitting on a large tree branch, looking attentively to the side. The scene highlights the contrast between the lioness's light fur and the dark, textured bark of the tree against a clear sky background.

Our team’s favourite Meru lions

Born Free’s hard-working Pride of Meru team has followed the lions of Meru National Park for many years, getting to know each one. But who has especially won their hearts?