In late March, the NSPCA removed three captive lions from a private residence in Randfontein.
In early March, the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD) notified the NSPCA of the illegal possession of three lions. The NSPCA and Randwest SPCA inspected the property and the GDARD opened a case for the illegal possession of lions. This is a ‘contravention of the National Environmental Biodiversity Act and the relevant Threatened or Protected Species regulations.’
National Environmental Biodiversity Act and the relevant Threatened or Protected Species regulations: The protection of species that warrant national protection.
The lion’s owner is facing imprisonment penalties, a R10 million fine or both.
The NSPCA advises that following being removed from captivity, wildlife should be given the opportunity to return to the wild or placed into the care of an accredited sanctuary. These sanctuaries should not allow public interaction with wildlife.
The three lions were transferred to NSPCA-accredited Isindile Big Cat and Predator Sanctuary on 22 March.
With funding and veterinary services supplied by Aspinall Foundation, GDARD, NSPCA, Randwest SPCA, and the sanctuary successfully darted, captured, and moved the lions from their illegal holdings. A veterinarian performed a basic health check, and microchipped, dewormed, and vaccinated them.
‘The NSPCA strongly opposes the keeping of wildlife in captivity and holds the firm view that wild animals belong in the wild.’
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