The love and devotion these two former circus lions share between one another is evident in this adorable video, which shows Tarzan grooming Tanya as they await their flight to the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary in South Africa.
Animal Defenders International (ADI) rescued these two majestic creatures from Guatemala, following the country’s ban on animal circuses. Prior to their journey to a new sanctuary, they’re taking it easy at ADI’S Temporary Rescue Center.
During his time trapped in the circus, Tarzan tore his lower lip fighting with a tiger. His rescuers hope to repair his injury once he arrives at his forever home.
The scars on Tanya’s face are likely from protecting Tarzan during the fight.
They’ve remained by each other’s sides through thick and thin and will soon begin a new chapter in their lives filled with freedom, safety, and comfort.
The flight is being funded by the nonprofit organization GreaterGood.org, along with supplementary funds raised by ADI.

What a beautiful act . I can’t help but wonder what the ones left behind were experiencing. Surely, the animals know that death is in that place. What a horrific feeling, like a condemned person walking to his/her sure death. But, I am so happy for the mother & calf Phoenix rescued. Just hope that somehow we can get to a point in our world where we don’t feel the need to eat animals and can live as well (perhaps even better) by NOT devouring them. Thanks for this beautiful video.
Beautiful.
ANIMALS have feelings. They feel pain, loneliness, and have emotions. God’s creatures. Stop the abuse. Prosecute offenders to the fullest extent of the law.
The pure beauty of this video brought tears to my eyes.
Many humans do not deserve to be a part of tis awesome Earth.
And I thank Goodness every night that there are poeple who do care <3
Wishing many happy years for Tarzan and Tanya
Thank you to Animal Defenders International <3
Sorry for the typos (it was the tears)
Proof Animals have different bodies then humans. But have feelings compassion and love. More than most humans They feel pain and love !
This is a great story but is Africa a safe place for them?
This affection between them is So Gorgeous! Thank you for posting this beautiful story. May this loving pair be blessed in their remaining lives with happiness!!
Tanya and Tarzan are finally at their forever home at ANIMAL DEFENDERS INTERNATIONAL WILDLIFE SANCTUARY IN SOUTH AFRICA. OPERATION LIBERTY WAS A SUCCESS
Animals have the right to live and be free.
Why does an Applebee’s ad for brisket pop up when I am trying to watch a video about a cow begging to save it’s life at slaughterhouse?? GROSS
I SO hope that there will be a follow-up when they reach their new home!
Well if this isn’t love then what is? Beautiful and free. The lioness is just loving this and she is so relaxed.
Please help and save the animals!!!
Thank you. Such a lovely story.
Well done to Guatemala’s ban on animal circuses. A shame that all countries don’t follow.
What beautiful sentient beings Tarzan and Tanya are. 🦁🦁
So much love. Thank you to all who have rescued these beautiful animals.
As a former big cat keeper, I had the privilege of working with lions. They are completely devoted towards each other, they share feelings of love, fear, anxiety, and joy. I’m grateful that these two lions were saved from the brutal life of circuses. All they want is a peaceful, fulfilling life, free of pain, isolation, and loneliness. Thank you Animal Defenders International (ADI) for rescuing these magnificent creatures and to sending them to the ADI Sanctuary.
Murderers for tea man is vermin selfish scum
How beautiful is that? Hope they are never parted.
Awesome! All animals have the right to live in freedom! Only the rotten, money-loving “man” prevents that!! It’s been a mistake to let humans live on Earth!
This beggars the question how anyone can hurt any animal
HOW WONDERFUL!
Beautiful.
beautiful