Mother Nature never cease to amaze when it comes down to odd friendships, especially between different animal species. However, a lion falling in love with a tigress is the last thing to cross someone’s mind, but that’s exactly what this love story is all about!
Life wasn’t always easy for this odd couple. Cameron, the lion and Zabu, the white tigress was kept in captivity at a zoo in New England with the purpose to bred and give birth to ligers (a combination of white lions and tigers).
Thankfully they got rescued back in 2004. At that time things looked pretty bad for them. Cameron was around 200lbs underweight for a male his age, while Zabu had a genetic flaw. Now, they’re safe and enjoying their life, thanks to the Big Cat Rescue. “When Zabu and Cameron were rescued, we constructed a large natural enclosure for the two of them to share since they are truly bonded as a couple,” the rescue group wrote on social media.
Due to some medical issue, Cameron had to be either neutered or forever separate him by his love. “Because Cameron’s behaviors we had only two choices; separate him from Zabu forever or neuter him,” the rescue said. “The decision was easy!”
Shortly after, the majestic lion lost his mane, but at least he got the chance to happily leave next to his soulmate. “Cameron’s mood has mellowed dramatically and he seems much more comfortable in the hot Florida summers without the extra 15 pounds of fur around his neck. He has even become much more playful since he no longer worries about everything that is going on around his enclosure,” the rescue group said.
More about Cameron and Zabu’s story, in the video below!
h/t: thedodo | boredpanda
