The 11 Sudan Lions

From conflict to carefree living

21.2.2025

In 2024, eleven lions who endured the ravages of conflict in Sudan, found a new lease on life at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary. These big cats were once caught in the crossfire of war, witnessed great trials and tragedies while trapped in their war-torn country of origin. They have been given a second chance thanks to the tireless and selfless efforts of the team from FOUR PAWS.

A War-Torn Beginning

The story of the 11 Sudan lions begins in the war-torn capital of Sudan, Khartoum. Amidst the chaos and violence, 48 wild animals, including these lions, were trapped in a conflict zone. FOUR PAWS stepped in to evacuate these animals in November 2023. However, the journey was far from over. They returned in January 2024 for the emergency rescue of some of the animals as the fighting erupted in the designated safe area near Wad Madani the animals were evacuated and brought to Al Ma’wa for Nature and Wildlife, in Jordan. Due to their critical health condition and urgent need for treatment and monitoring, the other rescued animals- three lions, four hyenas and a serval- found a long-term home there. Once all logistics and papers were ready the remaining 11 lions were transferred to LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary.

Arrival at LIONSROCK

The 11 lions were finally transferred to LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary on February 16, 2024. Upon arrival, they were found to be traumatised, weak, and emaciated. The dedicated team at LIONSROCK have since provided them with specialised care, tailored to their needs, to help them recover from the ordeal they had endured.

Life at LIONSROCK

At LIONSROCK, the lions now live in four interconnected enclosures with species-appropriate amenities, allowing for regular monitoring and opportunity to express their natural behaviour. The group is made up of three lions Leo, Sam and Moody; and eight lionesses Leonie, Carolyn, Sheeba, Izzy, Merghani, Mina, Kandaka and Kassala.

The lions' new forever home has offered them a chance to recover in peace, away from the sounds of fighting and the suffering they once witnessed. The sanctuary provides them with a species-appropriate environment, where they can roam and receive the care they need. The team at LIONSROCK works tirelessly to ensure the lions' well-being, offering enrichment activities, proper nutrition, and veterinary care.

The lions' journey from conflict to sanctuary is a testament to the efforts of the FOUR PAWS team and the support of the global community.

Kassala and Mina playing during enrichment

Sudan lions play in their speicies-appropriate enclosure

Moody

Lion Moody is the oldest male lion in the group. He lacked a mane which was a result of early malnourishment due to being taken from his mother for cub petting. However, due to proper care and nutrition that Moody received, his mane has flourished. Reestablishing his bond with his sister, Mina, requires patience, but their interactions show promising progress.

Sam

Sam is known for his furry ears and muscular stature. He’s gentle, particularly with his close companion, Leo. His playful side is seen when he stalks and playfully pounces on pride members, a behaviour adored by all. He’s an active participant in the pride, engaging in grooming, meals, and enrichment activities. Despite his playfulness, Sam is protective, especially of the younger lions.

Leo

Lovely Leo is a dominant figure within the pride. He has a compact frame, sleek fur, and eyes reflecting fierceness and vulnerability. His mane suggests future majesty. He moves gracefully through his enclosure and is a steadfast guardian of the group. Leo shows a mischievous side, amusing others with antics like dismantling the water trough. Despite his tough exterior, he’s tender-hearted, seeking solace in quiet moments.

Mina

Mina, the largest female lion in the group, is known for her nurturing energy and is seen as the “mother” of the pride. Despite her past scars from war and confinement, she’s resilient and surprisingly playful, engaging in antics like chasing leaves and mock wrestling. Mina is currently bonding with her brother, Moody, who struggles with social skills due to early separation for cub petting.

Kandaka

The three-year-old lioness is shy yet she is fiercely protective. Kandaka takes on a guardian role for the younger lions. Her wide, expressive eyes reflect her caring nature. She ensures well-being through grooming and care, providing a safe environment. Her face bears scars from her past, a testament to her resilience. Kandaka enjoys her solitude and recharging in the sun of her enclosure.

Caroline

Caroline, also known as “Sunshine”, is a warm and positive presence. She’s gentle and calm, moving with grace and rarely showing aggression. She’s observant, often watching over the group and ensuring safety. Her calming energy diffuses tension, especially during high-energy days. Loved by all, she fosters harmony within the group. Her kindness and vigilance make her an invaluable pride member.

Merghani

Merghani carries scars near her eyes from her past struggles, but despite initial health challenges and emotional turmoil upon arrival at sanctuary, she has transformed into a gentle and calm lion, exhibiting trust and openness. Her coat, spotted like a leopard’s, has earned her the nickname “Little Leopard”. She finds comfort in basking in the sun and thrives within her lion family, sharing meals, grooming, and playful moments.

Sheba

Originally named Thunder, she reflects strength. Her early days at the sanctuary were marked by vulnerability due to the loss of her mother, but she transformed over time, her cries turning into contented roars. She’s now a joyous lioness, endearing herself to caretakers and pride members. Sheba mingles with the group, fostering unity, and her playful antics are indulged by her companions.

Leonie

Leonie, the gentlest lion in the group, is known for her calm demeanour and soft eyes. Her front leg bears a lump, a reminder of her confinement in a crate, which is gradually reducing, indicating healing and resilience. Despite her past hardships symbolised by her lump, Leonie has transformed through resilience and care. She embraces joy, rolling in the grass and uplifting the pride with her playfulness.

Kassala

Her outward-turned paws, a result of early malnutrition, which will correct with time, symbolise her potential for growth and healing. She’s cautious during socialisation but shows sweetness once comfortable. Kassala’s playful energy is infectious, and she’s described as lovable by her caretakers. Other lions in the group view her as a nurturing figure, contributing to pride harmony.

Izzy

Once aggressive due to past trauma and a medical condition, she now exhibits calmness, comfort, and playfulness. Her physical strength is evident in her stature and broad shoulders. Her behaviour shows curiosity and security, with deliberate movements and playful interactions amidst her pride contrasts her previous fear-driven behaviour. Her vigilance, once a stressor, is now beneficial. Izzy’s move from isolation to community ensures a safe environment for her pride.