The transfer of 30 big cats from the old Luján Zoo begins

A global animal welfare organization has begun the transfer of 30 big cats from the former Luján Zoo in Argentina, in one of the largest animal relocation operations of this type in history.

After months of preparation by Four Paws, the transfer of nine tigers and six lions to the Lionsrock big cat sanctuary in South Africa has been arranged, while the remaining eight tigers and seven lions are scheduled to be transferred to The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Colorado.

Some of the animals have voluntarily entered their transport cages, while others have required to be sedated under veterinary supervision.

The animals will depart on Monday, August 17 on commercial passenger and cargo flights.

The 27 big cats that could not be transferred abroad will remain, for the moment, in the facilities of the old zoo.