In the heart of a Romanian zoo in Braila, nine lions endured hardship. Four females - Gasira, Luna, Elsa, and Ekira and five males - Gamba, Jengo, Maru, Samson, and Leo shared a resilient bond. Born from three litters in 2007, their lives unfolded in the shadow of neglect. 

FOUR PAWS intervened and in June 2008, they rescued the lion siblings from their unfortunate circumstances. Malnourished and frail, they arrived at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary- a haven for second chances.

The cubs’ hind legs bore the scars of deprivation, a cruel consequence of calcium deficiency during their early days. The zoo, strapped for space and resources, faced a grim choice: sell them to private photographers or abandon them to their fate. The illegal practice of using lion cubs for tourist photos perpetuated their suffering. Sedated and starved, they posed for countless snapshots. 

In 2014, Ekira and Leo found solace in LIONSROCK’s Special Care Unit. Leo’s chronic issues demanded gentle care, and Ekira stood by his side. Meanwhile, the remaining three lionesses—Gasira, Luna, and Elsa—faced their own challenges. The males fought for dominance but soon found comfort in their forever home. 

Sadly, Leo and Gamba passed in 2017 and 2024 respectively, due to health complications.