Two lionesses saved from a zoo affected by the war in Ukraine are to be given a new home in Scotland.  

Luna and Plusza have been on the move since their home in the eastern part of the country was shelled in 2022.  

Now, after a journey which has taken them across Europe, the two beasts will be given a new place to stary at the Five Sisters zoon in West Lothian. 

Both animals were first sheltered in Kyiv before moving to Poland and later to Natuurhulpcentrum in Belgium. 

Five Sisters Zoo has now stepped forward to offer the lionesses a permanent sanctuary in Scotland. 

The lioness’ arrival marks a new chapter for the zoom, which has been at the forefront of rescuing animals since 2015.  

Four ex-circus lions arrive at the Five Sisters Zoo in West Lothian, Scotland. Four ex-circus lions arrive at the Five Sisters Zoo in West Lothian, Scotland. (Image: PA)

Four lions—Boss, Skinny, Twin 1, and Twin 2— were initially brought over from from Belgium, where they had been rescued from a life of suffering in a traveling circus.  


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These animals were given a new home in a purpose-built habitat, however, only Skinny remains of the original pride. 

“The arrival of Luna and Plusza is a continuation of our long-standing commitment to giving lions a second chance at life,” said Gary Curran, Head of Carnivores at Five Sisters Zoo. 

“Our team is prepared to provide these lionesses with the best care possible, ensuring that they are able to live out their lives in peace, just as we did for Boss, Skinny, and the others.”