Two rescued lionesses leave behind years of confinement for a future filled with sun, space, and sanctuary in South Africa
In a triumph of compassion and cooperation, two lionesses have taken their first steps toward freedom. Illiana and Tomoyo, once performers in a French circus, have officially arrived at their forever home: LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary in South Africa, operated by the global animal welfare organization FOUR PAWS.
The news marks a heartwarming milestone in the fight to protect big cats from exploitation—and a powerful reminder that second chances are possible.
A Journey from Captivity to Care
For years, Illiana and Tomoyo lived in captivity near Paris, trained to perform for human entertainment under the harsh conditions of the circus. But their story took a dramatic turn when their former owner made the rare but compassionate decision to retire them.
After a period of rehabilitation at Tonga Terre d’Accueil Sanctuary, the lionesses were finally ready to travel. With the help of FOUR PAWS and their partners at FreeLife, the duo embarked on a carefully planned journey across continents to reach LIONSROCK—a place designed to let big cats live as close to nature as possible.
LIONSROCK: A Sanctuary, Not a Showcase
Located in the heart of South Africa, LIONSROCK is home to more than 100 rescued big cats from around the world. These animals are given the space to roam, the dignity to be wild, and the veterinary and emotional care they were denied for so long.
The sanctuary emphasizes species-appropriate environments—no cages, no performances, no exploitation.
For Illiana and Tomoyo, it means sunlight, soil under their paws, and the chance to rediscover natural behaviors that were once suppressed.
An International Collaboration for Change
This relocation would not have been possible without the close collaboration of FOUR PAWS, Tonga Terre d’Accueil, and FreeLife. Together, these organizations exemplify the growing international effort to end the use of wild animals in entertainment and prioritize ethical rescue and rehabilitation.
FOUR PAWS continues to campaign against the use of big cats in circuses and private ownership, and this successful transfer only fuels their momentum.
How You Can Help
Supporters worldwide are invited to follow Illiana and Tomoyo’s journey through behind-the-scenes updates and heart-melting footage shared by FOUR PAWS. Even more importantly, there are clear ways to take action:
🫴 Donate to help fund future rescues and care: https://donate.four-paws.org/s/
❤️ Adopt a big cat virtually to contribute to ongoing support: https://www.four-paws.org/get-involved/adoption-programme
For those living in countries with local FOUR PAWS offices, contributing through your national branch ensures maximum impact and potential tax benefits.
A Roar for the Future
Illiana and Tomoyo’s story is one of resilience, recovery, and hope—a powerful symbol of what’s possible when advocacy meets action. As they begin this new chapter at LIONSROCK, they remind us of a broader truth: that every animal deserves a life free from fear and filled with dignity.
Stay tuned for more updates on their journey and what lies ahead for these two fierce and free lionesses.
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