Jana & Ozzy Begin a New Life in South Africa
Two endangered lion cubs — Jana and Ozzy — who were confiscated from a Beirut zoo are now safe and thriving at the Drakenstein Lion Sanctuary in South Africa. Their journey marks another major step in the fight against Lebanon’s illegal wildlife trade.
From Exploitation to Rescue
The cubs were first spotted at a zoo on the outskirts of Beirut, where they were being used as $5 photo props. Public complaints prompted a judicial investigation for violations of Lebanon’s Animal Protection and Welfare Law and the Big Cat Protection Decree, ultimately leading to a confiscation order.
Just over two months old and weighing only eight kilograms, Jana and Ozzy were placed under the care of Animals Lebanon by the Ministry of Agriculture. Their rescue offered them their first real chance at a life free from suffering.
A Mission Made Possible Through Global Collaboration
Their transfer to South Africa was made possible thanks to the efforts of:
- United for Wildlife
- Qatar Airways Cargo’s WeQare “Rewild the Planet” initiative, which transported the lions free of charge
- The Live Animal Centre in Doha, where the cubs received care during transit.
From Beirut to Doha to Cape Town — and finally to Drakenstein — the cubs traveled with constant supervision and professional care.
A New Beginning at Drakenstein
At Drakenstein Lion Park, home to over 20 rescued big cats including others from Animals Lebanon, Jana and Ozzy will complete a short quarantine before moving into their new enclosure. Here, they will live safely — for life — far from the neglect, exploitation, and trafficking that once threatened them.
With their arrival, Animals Lebanon has now helped place eight lions in sanctuaries in the last two years, and has rescued 26 big cats since 2011. Many of these animals were trafficked through the Syrian border or Beirut airport, sold illegally as exotic pets or to private zoos for more than $10,000.
A Collective Victory for Lebanon’s Wildlife
This rescue was possible because Lebanon’s Animal Welfare Law 47/2017 was enforced — proving the impact of legislation when supported by active authorities and dedicated partners.
We extend heartfelt thanks to:
- Minister of Agriculture Dr. Nizar Hani
- The Ministry of Agriculture team
- The Internal Security Forces
- The judicial authorities
- Drakenstein Lion Sanctuary for offering the cubs a lifelong home
- And special thanks to wildlife photographer Michel Zoghzoghi, whose compassion and support were vital throughout the rescue
Each successful rescue is a reminder that wild animals belong in the wild — not in homes, cages, or as entertainment.
Jana and Ozzy Are Safe — But Many Others Still Need Help
The cubs’ freedom is a meaningful victory, but countless other animals remain at risk. With your support, we can continue to rescue, protect, and advocate for animals like Jana and Ozzy.
