BINA

Date of Birth: 22 September 2020

Arrived at ISINDILE: 22 March 2023

Tawny lion – female

Bina arrived at ISINDILE with Mtazamaji and Atlarela. The three lions were confiscated by GDARDE from a small backyard enclosure where they were kept illegally. In collaboration with the NSPCA Wildlife Unit, the three lions found a new home at ISINDILE.

Bina is missing her front right leg, and we have no idea how she came to lose it. She is such an inspiration to us, as she never allows her disability to get her down. She has a mischievous side and loves stalking her neighbours, Simba and Nala, and mock-charging us at the fence when we check on them in the morning.

The name Bina means to dance or to sing and suits her perfectly. Bina was very reluctant to leave her crate when we released them. She was tired and insecure. We secured her crate to the gate and fence and left her alone to allow time to calm down and exit when she felt ready. We observed from a distance, and when she eventually emerged from the crate, it looked as if she was dancing on her three legs. Bina also has a way of “crying” (singing) when she feels nervous and insecure — and when Bina “cries,” we all cry.

Bina used to share an enclosure with Atlarela and Mtazamaji, but towards the end of 2024, we had to separate them. The two boys started maturing and becoming very dominant. Due to her having only three legs, they regarded Bina as weak. It is in a lion’s nature to prey on the weak, so they started attacking Bina, who was not able to defend herself. To protect Bina, we decided it was best to separate them and immediately began construction of two new enclosures with a shared middle fence and a section without any electrics. They now live happily alongside each other and regularly rub faces and share kisses through the fence. Bina has a very close bond with Mtazamaji, and they can often be found lying close to each other.

Virtual Adoption of Bina

Support Bina through a virtual adoption and help fund her lifelong care at Isindile Sanctuary. Your contribution directly supports supplements, veterinary care, and habitat maintenance for this rescued tawny lioness. 

Adoption Options:

• R250 one-time gift

• R1000 one-time gift

• R1800 one-time gift

This is a virtual adoption — no physical contact or visits. As an adopter, you will receive:

• A personalized adoption certificate featuring Bina’s photo and rescue story

• Recognition on our official Facebook page as part of our sanctuary family

Join us in giving Bina a future of peace and protection.