Ukrainian Lynx Rescued & Moved to UK Sanctuary | BBC News
- A young Eurasian lynx, named Ursa, has found a new home at The Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent, England, after being rescued from Ukraine.
- Ursa, born in 2023, was discovered as a kitten being illegally kept as a pet in what has been described as terrible conditions within the Ukrainian war zone.
- “To see Ursa take her first steps here in Kent is an incredibly emotional moment for the whole team,” Whitnall stated.
A young Eurasian lynx, named Ursa, has found a new home at The Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent, England, after being rescued from Ukraine. The rescue, completed on , marks a significant effort to provide sanctuary for animals impacted by the ongoing conflict and illegal wildlife trade.
Ursa, born in , was discovered as a kitten being illegally kept as a pet in what has been described as terrible conditions within the Ukrainian war zone. The Big Cat Sanctuary’s managing director, Cam Whitnall, led a specialist rescue team through several days of extraction to bring her to safety. The operation also included the successful transport of Mir, an Amur Tiger, to Belgium, with plans for eventual rehoming in South Africa.
“To see Ursa take her first steps here in Kent is an incredibly emotional moment for the whole team,” Whitnall stated. “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.”
Upon arrival at the sanctuary, Ursa underwent veterinary examinations which revealed severe intestinal infections and stunted growth due to malnutrition. She had been hand-raised, leaving her without the necessary skills to survive independently in the wild. Experts have determined that a return to the wild is not possible.
Ian Jones, head of cats at The Big Cat Sanctuary, expressed optimism about Ursa’s adaptation. “We’re really pleased with Ursa’s development so far. She’s taking baby steps to get used to her new environment but we are following her lead and being patient.” Jones also noted that Eurasian lynx were indigenous to the UK over a thousand years ago, suggesting she should adapt well to the climate.
The rescue operation was financially supported by a public appeal that exceeded its initial £100,000 target, ultimately raising £134,152. A significant contribution of £50,000 came from Kent-based firm Premier Coatings, with the final total allowing the sanctuary to enhance its facilities beyond initial plans. Instead of simply redeveloping existing habitats, the funds will now be used to construct a state-of-the-art enclosure, to be named the Premier Coatings Small Cat Rescue Centre, expected to open in late spring.
The new enclosure will feature walkways and climbing systems designed to enrich Ursa’s environment and promote her well-being. This upgrade reflects the sanctuary’s commitment to providing a high standard of care for rescued animals.
Ursa’s story highlights the often-overlooked impact of conflict on animal populations. The illegal pet trade, exacerbated by instability, frequently results in animals being kept in unsuitable conditions and suffering from neglect. The Big Cat Sanctuary’s intervention not only saved Ursa from a precarious situation but also underscores the importance of international collaboration in wildlife conservation efforts.
Prior to her arrival at the sanctuary, Ursa was confiscated by Ukrainian police and temporarily housed at the Wild Animal Rescue Center. This collaborative effort between law enforcement, rescue organizations, and the sanctuary demonstrates a coordinated approach to addressing the challenges of animal welfare in conflict zones.
The successful rescue of both Ursa and Mir represents a significant achievement for The Big Cat Sanctuary and its partners. It showcases the dedication and expertise required to navigate complex logistical and ethical considerations when rescuing animals from war-torn regions. The sanctuary’s work provides a beacon of hope for vulnerable wildlife caught in the crossfire of human conflict.
The rescue also comes after a similar operation involving Highland lynx in Scotland earlier this year, , which required a coordinated search involving police, RZSS, park rangers, and a drone from Cairngorms Mountain Rescue Team. While that incident involved capturing lynx already present in the UK, it demonstrates the ongoing focus on monitoring and protecting these elusive animals.