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Lion and Bear Rescued from Albanian Estate
18 Dec
Summary
- Lion Erion and bear Flora were rescued after owner posted videos on TikTok.
- Both animals were in poor condition, with Flora malnourished and Erion losing mane.
- Albania faces systemic illegal wildlife trade issues, with over 60 big cats kept illegally.
A complex rescue operation in Albania has successfully relocated a lion, Erion, and a bear, Flora, to specialized sanctuaries in Germany. The animals were discovered being kept as pets on a private estate. Authorities initiated the rescue after locating Erion through videos shared on TikTok by his owner.
Both Erion and Flora were reportedly in poor health upon their rescue. Flora suffered from malnourishment and dental issues, while Erion experienced mane loss. After being sedated and crated, they embarked on a 70-hour journey across Europe, arriving in Germany on December 13.
This operation underscores Albania's struggle with illegal wildlife trade and the private keeping of exotic animals. Organizations like FOUR PAWS advocate for stronger legislation to combat the issue, as weak laws and enforcement allow animals to be kept in substandard conditions, with an estimated over 60 big cats still in captivity.
