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?
Ginny, left, and Alda, right
It was 12 months ago – after years of legal issues and complex paperwork – that the two leopards safely made an incredible 8,000-mile journey. We took them in special travel crates from their halfway house in Belgium, to our Big Cat Sanctuary at Shamwari Private Game Reserve.
Victims of the illegal wildlife trade, Alda and Ginny were rescued from a terrible enclosure, at a breeding centre in Poland – now thankfully closed down. When we watched them take their first steps onto African soil, two years ago today, our hearts leapt to see them finally have the chance to enjoy the space, privacy and tranquillity they deserve.
As you can see in our latest update video, below, 16-year-old mum Alda and her 10-year-old daughter Ginny now seem to emanate peace, at their forever home. Surrounded by birdsong, in the natural surroundings of Shamwari – what a contrast to their former life of exploitation.
Our thanks go to the Olsen Animal Trust, who fund Ginny and Alda’s care for life – what a difference it is making to these two rescued leopards!