As a cub, born in 2006, Savannah and her brother faced an uncertain future. Rescued from a breeding farm by CROW, a rehabilitation centre in KwaZulu Natal, they clung to each other. 

As they grew, hope blossomed. The siblings were relocated to a reserve, where rewilding awaited them. The resident pride turned on Savannah’s brother to which he had succumbed to his injuries. 

CROW, their steadfast guardian, reached out to LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary and in in April 2009 Savannah arrived at her new forever home. Here, she enjoyed her spacious species-appropriate enclosure.

Next to Savannah’s enclosure stood Jazz. We had hoped that the two lions may find companionship together. 

In October 2021 Jazz, burdened by severe arthritis, sadly passed. 

Savannah continues to fill her days by laying under the African sun and looking forward to her weekly enrichment activity. These days are a far cry from those of uncertainty.