It is for this reason that the lion is known as the “lord of the jungle.” They are one of the most dangerous predators on the planet because of their strong frame and tremendous strength.
As a result, being around these wild cats, which may easily reach 450 pounds, is not advised. Frikkie Von Solms, on the other hand, raised a lion just like any other animal friend.
After a decade of friendship, the 69-year-old caregiver and Zion the lion have formed a strong partnership built on love and respect. And their tale is quite inspiring! “I’ve nurtured nineteen lions, leopards, and cheetahs since Zion,” the man said.
Unfortunately, the 11-year-old lion was born in captivity, and his mother rejected him just days after his birth. Zion was saved just in time by Frikkie Von Solms, a South African woman who used to care about orphaned wild cats.
He treated the tiny creature as if he were his own child. He fed him by hand and allowed him to sleep in his bed. Zion has survived because of Frikkie’s efforts and generosity, and the small cub has grown into a massive lion.
Despite his intimidating appearance, Zion is a friendly giant. Frikkie would put his life in the hands of such a gentle creature. They’ve been together for nearly 11 years. And they’ve learned a lot from each other over the years. “He is unique because of our shared link. “He taught me so much,” the carer remarked.
“Growing up with him, learning and living with him through all of the stages of being a male lion was a once in a lifetime experience,” Von Solms told the Daily Mail.
“People talk about lions as if they are just African cats with personality, yet they have personalities, humor, and laugh.” Zion is a soft-spoken lion. He has never attacked humans, and I have great faith in him.”
Find out more about this special friendship in the video below:
