RESCUE UPDATES DEC 7 – 13, 2025
December 12 – The Cubs feel the dirt and the sun for the first time! Their JOURNEY HOME is complete!
December 12 – The day the cubs discover their forever home in paradise
The moment we have all been waiting for has arrived! After spending the night in their enclosure – the cubs are brave enough to enter the habitat encouraged by food. This is their first steps ever (!) onto the real ground under the sun. More then a few happy tears were shed.
After finishing their breakfast – they began to explore near their enclosure. They have about half an acre right outside their door – with an additional few acres right next door all to their own. Other lions and big cats are nearby – and you can see them sniffing the air to experience all that is around them.
After breakfast – they went back in – but after lunch they continued to explore. We are excited to get reports as they get more bold. Andy and Michael report that they seemed calm and, while slightly tentative – ultimately curious!
They have also received their forever names! The male is Hosni, the larger female is Gigi and the littlest one is Kali.
Thank you (!!!) to Andy Blue for bringing this amazing opportunity to us, for the heroic actions of Jason Mier and Animals Lebanon for making it happen and for the incredible Ansa & David Gerber of Isindile Sanctuary for giving them a heavenly forever home!
Check out the videos below of their FIRST steps out into the world.
December 11 – It’s time to introduce them to their new home!
Michael explains as they are getting ready to release the cubs into their new home – how they are making the transfer and the considerations involved. Andy with Jason and the Isindile team prepare the crate to open.
December 11 – Michael explains how to help them adjust to their new home
Since this is a completely new experience for the cubs in an entirely new place – Michael explains how they will be safely introduced to their new home – in a way that will minimize the stress
Even though this is an exceptional place – far different from the squalor they were in before – as there are all new sights and smells – it is important to help them ease in and adjust.
December 11 – The Cubs arrive at Isindile Sanctuary!
December 11 – Cubs arrive at Isindile – their Forever Home!
After a rather long and bumpy ride, including an almost blown truck tire and being helped by a wonderful farm family, the cubs finally have arrived at their forever home at the beautiful Isindile Sanctuary! A remote and beautiful place where they will spend the rest of their lives with dignity and care. Their habitat consists of a large inside enclosure to get out of the elements and a beautiful natural habitat. The cubs were let out into the enclosure and quickly cuddled up together on the clean bedding. One of the cubs came outside into the enclosure for just a moment – before quickly going back to cuddle with her brother and sister.
Since these cubs have NEVER touched the actual ground, felt the sun directly on them or had any room at all – she was nervous and came right back in. They were fed a meal which they devoured after such a journey – and then cuddled back together. They seemed calm.
Michael and Andy say this is the normal way to rehome – and that soon they will be used to these brand new smells and will become brave enough to go outside for the first time.
THAT is a photo we are so eager to share! We are all tearful just anticipating it. Stay tuned!
December 11 – Cubs and team arrive in South Africa!
We are so happy to report that they have landed in South Africa and the little cubs are doing very well after their arduous journey!!! After a scary 30+ hours – from getting sedation darted in their enclosure, to the drive to Beirut, transfer to new crate, going through cargo, flying 4 hours, getting transferred to a new plane, eight hours in the air… they have finally landed in their new home country. Michael, Andy & Jason are there with them – and they all will be driving the four hours to the Isindile Sanctuary – where they will find their beautiful forever home in that gorgeous sanctuary created with love.
December 11 – The Cubs arrive in South Africa – almost home!
December 9 – BIG DAY! CUBS GET MOVED FROM THE “ZOO”
Michael, Andy, Jason and the team traveled 2.5 hours south of Beirut to rescue the cubs from their deplorable housing. Upon arrival, the cubs needed to be “immobilized” for a physical exam, blood work, etc. That required using a “pole dart” and tranquilizing each of them. Jason brought in a vet from France Jean Christophe who was exceptional at this process. The cubs were then placed in their transfer crate– where they woke up together. See videos of the journey, the process of sedation, the check ups and loading into the van below.
Cuddled together – they traveled a slightly less bumpy route back to Beirut in the van for another three hours. Maggie (Animals Lebanon) is staying with them in the van until they are ready to go to the airport tonight with Jason for their overnight flight to Doha where Andy & Michael will be waiting for them. Once there – they will be checked out – and then boarding another flight for the 8 hours to South Africa.
We are so happy that all went well at the zoo, they are healthy, and while obviously this is very stressful – they are comforted by each other’s company and felt well enough for a good meal when they got back to Beirut. See the video of them below.
On the logistics side – the flights were changed (yet again!) and so there was a bit of a scramble. After 3 days with no luggage, Michael’s bag was delivered 2 hours before the next flight. Although badly damaged and open – everything was in there…. And he finally got a shampoo!
More updates from Doha, Qatar – as we follow these cubs on their epic Journey Home.
December 10 – The Cubs fly to Qatar
December 9 / 10
Andy and Michael take a flight to Qatar to wait for Jason and the Cubs. Long layover allowed them to stretch legs and rest. The cubs arrived safely and in good condition on another flight with Jason – though the airline and security would not let the team check on them in person. All reports are good – and at 1:00 am they all left on the same plane for the 8 hour flight to South Africa! Once there they will be met in Johannesburg by the Isindile Sanctuary and transported by truck an additional 4 hours to the sanctuary! Long and scary journey for the cubs – but a wonderful new life awaits!
December 9 – Video Update from Michael – RESCUE DAY!
December 9 – BIG DAY! CUBS GET MOVED FROM THE “ZOO”
Michael, Andy, Jason and the team traveled 2.5 hours south of Beirut to rescue the cubs from their deplorable housing. Upon arrival, the cubs needed to be “immobilized” for a physical exam, blood work, etc. That required using a “pole dart” and tranquilizing each of them. Jason brought in a vet from France Jean Christophe who was exceptional at this process. The cubs were then placed in their transfer crate– where they woke up together. See videos of the journey, the process of sedation, the check ups and loading into the van below.
Cuddled together – they traveled a slightly less bumpy route back to Beirut in the van for another three hours. Maggie (Animals Lebanon) is staying with them in the van until they are ready to go to the airport tonight with Jason for their overnight flight to Doha where Andy & Michael will be waiting for them. Once there – they will be checked out – and then boarding another flight for the 8 hours to South Africa.
We are so happy that all went well at the zoo, they are healthy, and while obviously this is very stressful – they are comforted by each other’s company and felt well enough for a good meal when they got back to Beirut. See the video of them below.
On the logistics side – the flights were changed (yet again!) and so there was a bit of a scramble. After 3 days with no luggage, Michael’s bag was delivered 2 hours before the next flight. Although badly damaged and open – everything was in there…. And he finally got a shampoo!
More updates from Doha, Qatar – as we follow these cubs on their epic Journey Home.
PHOTOS
VIDEOS (Hover under the photo to see the title)
December 8 – Andy Arrives Team Gathers
December 8 evening
Andy arrives into Beruit. Michael’s luggage does not. The team gathers at a local restaurant to meet one another and plan for tomorrow to pick up the cubs. From Animals Lebanon there is Jason, Lana (Board President), Maggie (Vice President), Jean Christophe (veterinarian from France). See more about the incredible work of Animals Lebanon here:
Michael Video greeting from Beirut
December 8
A bleary eyed Michael’s update on losing Andy two airports ago, introducing the team and a preview of the big day tomorrow when the cubs get to leave their horrible enclosure.
December 8 – Michael arrives Lebanon – airlines issues and changes
December 8
Michael landed safely in Lebanon (4:30 am PST) but issues and airline changes – Michael arrived in Lebanon (but not his luggage!) – but Andy’s ticket had to be reissued in Paris and he didn’t get on that flight. He is due to arrive at 7pm local time now. (Hopefully with Michael’s luggage!) The airlines also just changed the flight the cubs are on – so Michael and Jason are working on re-ticketing their own flights to be with the cubs. Stay tuned! (Photo shows Michael in van with Jason from Animals of Lebanon)
December 7 – Leave for Lebanon
December 7
On the way to Lebanon! Michael and Andy leave at 2:00 am for the first of three legs to Beirut approximately 28 hours travel time. San Diego to New York. New York to Paris. Paris to Lebanon.
December 6 – Preparation & Gratitude
December 6
Gratitude for You! Michael packing and getting ready for the cub rescue with deep gratitude in his heart for you wonderful supporters and sponsors who are making this rescue possible. True compassion in action.
December 3 – ID Stickers are ready for crate
December 3
Crate Stickers Complete – Jason has a large “sticker” made to put on the cubs’ crate. Includes his logo (Animals Lebanon), the sanctuary (Isindile), a funding partner (Free the Wild) and our very own Heart of the Wild!
RESCUE TIMELINE
Andy & Michael leave Beirut. Jason and cubs to follow
After even more ticketing mishaps – the cubs were placed on a new flight and everyone’s tickets are reissued. Michael and Andy fly to doha. Cubs to follow with Jason to Doha, Qatar.
The BIG Day! Cubs are rescues from zoo
Traveling 2.5 hours to the “zoo” the meet the cubs. The vet Jean Christophe conducts expert immobilization and health check of the cubs. They are placed in the transfer crate and drive 3 hours to Beirut. Maggie is with them in the van until their flight tomorrow!
Andy arrives and the team meets
Animals Lebanon there is Jason, Lana (Board President), Maggie (Vice President), Jean Christophe (veterinarian from France). See more about the incredible work of Animals Lebanon
Airline changes and issues – Oh my!
The flights from San Diego to New York and on to Paris went fine. At the Paris airport – the airline issues began. Michael got on the flight to Lebanon but Andy had to be reticketed. Michael made it safely to Lebanon (4 am PST/ 2:30 pm local) – now Andy is due to arrive at 7:00 pm. The airline also is changing the flight that the cubs are on – so now they are scrambling to change their tickets to be on the same flight with them! Stay tuned….
Video / Photo / Updates begin
Michael will be posting daily updates so you can follow along each day on the cub’s progress and the efforts of the entire team behind the scenes. From the despair of seeing them locked in a harsh cage, to the wonder of their first steps on warm grass under the open sky (for the first time in their lives!) each day they will share the cubs’ incredible journey toward the freedom they deserve!
Michael & Andy leave for Beirut!
Leaving the house at 2:30 am – Michael and Andy leave for their trip to Beirut. After a layover in New York and Paris – they will travel on to Lebanon to arrive Monday afternoon after approx 28 travel hours. They will journey to get the cubs on Tuesday morning.
Stickers for the Cubs’ Transport Crate are finished
Jason has a large “sticker” made to put on the cubs’ crate. Includes his logo (Animals Lebanon), the sanctuary (Isindile), a funding partner (Free the Wild) and our very own Heart of the Wild!
Michael & Andy make their arrangements
Working with Jason the schedule is set for all aspects of the cubs release. Dec 9 the team will travel to the “zoo” where the cubs are with an international vet about 2.5 hours from Beirut. The cubs will be darted (for sedation) and have a full physical. After that, they will be put into the transfer crate and the team will drive back to Beirut. In the evening, the team will take them to the airport. Michael & Andy will fly with the cubs to Doha, Qatar on an overnight flight of 4.5 hours. Upon arrival, they will stay with the cubs in an animal holding facility for about 8 hours. Jason will meet them and they will all take the overnight 8hr flight to South Africa. Upon arrival – they will be met from the team at Isindile Sanctuary and will take the 4 hour drive from Johannesburg to the sanctuary – where the cubs will meet their forever home.
Flight secured for cubs to fly to South Africa!
Jason Mier of Animals Lebanon worked with Qatar airlines to arrange a flight on Dec 10. The cubs will fly to Doha for a layover and then on to South Africa
Fundraising to transfer the cubs to South Africa Sanctuary begins. Target goal $8,000 – Dec 1, 2025
The crates are complete and the final arrangements are being made with the airlines for a Dec 10 transfer to South Africa. Donations needed by Dec 1, 2025
Crate for the cubs to fly to South Africa are finished
Jason is supervising the building of the crates to carry the cubs. Completion set for November 24. Arrangements are being made with the airlines.
Jason secures all necessary permits from South Africa
All import permits from CITIES and South Africa are secured to transfer the cubs to South Africa.
Jason secures all necessary permits from Lebanon
All permits from Lebanon are secured to be able to transfer the cubs to South Africa.
Transfer to Sanctuary arranged for cubs
Zoo owner agrees to release the three cubs to a Isindile Sanctuary in South Africa. Arranged through Jason Meir of Animals Lebanon.
Mother lion gives birth to three cubs
Mother gives birth to three healthy cubs. To be separated from her so she can go to Wildlife Sanctuary in Colorado. Cubs left in private zoo.
Mother Lion becomes pregnant
While waiting for the transfer – the mother lion became pregnant with male cage mate.
Transfer again didn’t happen due to war
The new date for the transfer to Colorado was once again not met due to not being able to use the airport due to the war.
Mother Lion due to be transferred to Colorado Wildlife Sanctuary
Private zoo owner wanted Mother lion to be transferred to the Wild Animal Sanctuary, Colorado. All parties agreed and ready – trip cancelled due to war.
Imagine never touching the earth, feeling the sun or being able to run and play.
In the Middle East, private ownership of lions is a growing and alarming concern. Too many young lions are born into concrete cages, far from the lives they were meant to live.
Heart of the Wild has learned of the latest, but not the only, examples of this issue. We were asked to assist in the rehoming of three four-month-old African lion cubs – one male and two females.
Their current housing can only be defined as subpar…concrete floors, walls enclosed with rusted wire and metal bars leaving them to huddle together – in a dusty, barren enclosure, with no shelter, no hiding places – with nothing but one another for comfort against the constant human gaze.
These cubs were born at a private “zoo” in Syria. They were ripped away from their mother at an early age causing distress to both the mother and her precious cubs. Their mother, part of a pride intended for relocation to a sanctuary in the United States, (but it has not happened) was never meant to become pregnant. But a perfect storm of mismanagement, staff shortages, and airport closures caused by ongoing conflicts in Syria and Lebanon left her, her pride, and several other exotic animals — including a tiger, a jaguar, and a bear — stranded at the zoo for over a year.
Without proper care or space, nature took its course. Now, thanks to the tireless intervention of Jason Meir and his NGO, Animals Lebanon, these three little cubs finally have a chance at a future – at Isindile Sanctuary in South Africa, where they can grow, play, and live in a natural, secure environment.
The cubs were never given a name. We are calling them Amani, Moyo and Huru – which means Peace, Heart and Freedom in Swahili.
Heart of the Wild is stepping up to support this rescue! Without financial support – these three lions are sentenced to a life of misery and ill health.
VIDEO GALLERY
HELP US HELP THEM
$8,000 GOAL
DONATE HERE
THANK YOU FOR HELPING THESE BEAUTIFUL BEINGS!!!