More Than 100 Neglected Lions Found At Breeding Facility In South Africa

Oct 28, 2019 by apost team

There are some very specific reasons why there are laws to protect and preserve other species. Man simply does not have the ability to set aside profit motive in favor of allowing nature to have its way and maintain some level of natural balance here on earth.

The story begins with an anonymous leaker who provided information to a National Geographic journalist about a startling find. According to the leaker, there was a large number of exotic animals being held captive in the most heartbreaking conditions. 

After the issue was reported to the National Council for Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA), inspectors were sent to the scene to investigate. By the way, the NSPCA enforces the animal welfare legislation in South Africa.

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When the inspectors arrived, what they found was devastating to the human spirit, at least anyone with a functioning heart. Well over 100 exotic animals were indeed being held captive in dirty, small quarters. Among the group was over 100 lions of various ages, suffering from diseases like malnutrition, mange (parasitic skin disease) and dmeningoencephalitis (brain inflammation that causes paralysis).

“It’s hard to describe because it leaves you feeling hollow, knowing that you’ve got the king of the jungle in conditions like that,” Douglas Wolhuter, who lead the NSPCA inspection told the National Geographic. “It’s soul-destroying.”

According to Wolhuter, although the scene was alarming, it isn't something that is unheard of in the region. It was a 2015 documentary called "Blood Lions" by Ian Michler that pointed out there have been over 10,000 stories of the same nature in recent years. There have also been 6,000 to 8,000 predatory animals reportedly being held captive in horrible conditions for breeding purposes.

What do you think of these animals being held like that in a breeding facility? Let us know in the comments - and make sure you pass this along to your friends and family!