A three-year-old lioness named Yuna has taken her first steps on grass after being rescued from the war in Ukraine, a heartwarming moment that has captivated viewers globally.
The emotional video, shared on TikTok, shows Yuna cautiously stepping onto grass for the first time, displaying curiosity and a sense of wonder. This significant milestone marks a new chapter in her life following a traumatic past.
Yuna was rescued from a small confinement space in a private home in Ukraine, where she lived under dire conditions amid the chaos of war. The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) mobilized to assist in rescuing big cats like Yuna as the conflict escalated, with many exotic pets abandoned as their owners fled.
Her journey to safety was fraught with challenges, taking five days and covering over 30 hours through six countries, including Ukraine, Poland, and Belgium. Upon arrival at The Big Cat Sanctuary in the U.K., Yuna spent a week in a private den, where caregivers worked diligently to build her trust.
Now, Yuna is slowly adapting to her new environment, exploring her surroundings and engaging in natural behaviors. The sanctuary plans to rescue three more lionesses from Ukraine, furthering their mission to rehabilitate and care for these majestic animals.