Motan was rescued from a neglected zoo in Rafah, Gaza in 2019 together with lioness Pisa. He arrived at LIONSROCK on 10 April 2019 and immediately settled in exceptionally well. His physical condition improved drastically within a short period of time. Motan, initially struggled walking on the grass, after a life on concrete floors, but now he has a confident stride.   

His physical condition improved drastically within a short period of time at LIONSROCK. Motan is very energetic and absolutely adores the enrichment provided by the animal caretakers. Along with a good diet, LIONSROCK gives him supplements to continue improving. FOUR PAWS continues to advocate for high animal welfare standards for animals under human care and LIONSROCK stands as a demonstrably true sanctuary and pinnacle of FOUR PAWS’s animal welfare standards.

WHAT CAN YOU DO? Do not visit badly run zoos and animal parks or take part in wild animal photo or petting opportunities. Complain about inadequate keeping conditions directly to the zoo management and the responsible (local) authorities. Check the education and conservation value that the zoo provides. Be informed about projects to protect wild animal species in your own home country and support them because for you it is a day visit, for them it is a lifetime.  

Sadly, Pisa passed away in February 2024 due to health complications.