Eurasian Lynx Rescued from Ukraine War Zone Arrives Safely at UK Sanctuary
In a remarkable rescue operation, The Big Cat Sanctuary has announced the successful arrival of Ursa, a young female Eurasian lynx, from war-torn Ukraine. This complex and dangerous mission marks a significant milestone for the charity, with Ursa officially setting foot on UK soil over a recent weekend.
First Steps to Freedom After Years of Confinement
Under the careful supervision of the Sanctuary's expert keepers, Ursa took her very first steps into a temporary outdoor habitat. This moment represented her initial taste of true freedom after spending the last three years confined to a converted horse stable measuring just four by four meters. While she is still acclimating to her new surroundings, the team reports she is settling in well following her extensive journey across Europe, having arrived safely at the Sanctuary on February 13.
Dual Rescue Operation Saves Two Predators
The rescue mission was led by managing director Cam Whitnall and the specialist team from Crossborder Animal Services. In addition to securing Ursa, the Sanctuary successfully facilitated the transport of Mir, an Amur tiger also extracted from Ukraine. Mir has been safely delivered to the Natuurhulpcentrum in Belgium for quarantine before his eventual relocation to a sanctuary in South Africa.
Cam Whitnall, wildlife expert and managing director of The Big Cat Sanctuary, expressed profound emotion about the achievement. "To see Ursa take her first steps here in Kent is an incredibly emotional moment for the whole team," he said. "This mission was fraught with unpredictability, navigating a war zone with two vulnerable predators, but seeing them both safe makes every risk worthwhile. Ursa has spent her life under the shadow of war; today, that story changes. She is finally home."
Overwhelming Public Support Fuels Habitat Upgrades
The mission was made possible by an overwhelming public response and a transformative £50,000 donation from local business Premier Coatings. Consequently, the fundraising total surpassed the initial £100,000 goal, reaching an impressive £134,152.80. Surpassing this target has allowed the Sanctuary to significantly upgrade plans for Ursa's permanent home.
Rather than simply redeveloping an existing enclosure, the Sanctuary is now moving forward with a state-of-the-art build featuring innovative walkways and climbing systems. Until the Premier Coatings Small Cat Rescue Centre is completed, Ursa will reside in a specialised temporary enclosure adjacent to fellow rescued Eurasian lynx, Rhys. The grand opening of this world-class habitat is expected in late spring and will be open to the public during Big Cat Fest, the Sanctuary's popular open days.
Ursa's Troubled Past and Lifelong Care Commitment
Born in 2023, Ursa was discovered as a kitten being kept illegally as a private pet in a Ukrainian home. Following police intervention, she was moved to the Wild Animal Rescue Center near Kyiv under the care of Natalia Popova. Veterinary examinations revealed she suffered from severe malnutrition and intestinal infections, leaving her significantly smaller than a lynx her age should be.
Due to her hand-reared history and compromised physical condition, experts determined she would be unable to survive in the wild. The Big Cat Sanctuary has now committed to her lifelong care, ensuring she receives the specialist nutrition and veterinary support she needs to thrive in her new, safe environment.
