A lion and a bear rescued from illegal private captivity in northern Albania were transferred to animal sanctuaries in Germany in early December 2025, highlighting ongoing concerns about wildlife protection in the region. The animals, a three-year-old lion named Erion and a two-year-old bear named Flora, were discovered on a private estate after authorities in Tirana identified unlawful wildlife keeping. The rescue was coordinated by the international animal welfare organization FOUR PAWS in cooperation with Albania’s National Forestry Agency. Officials located the animals after online videos revealed the presence of a lion on the property. The case has drawn attention to a systemic problem involving illegal wildlife trade in Albania, where wild animals are sometimes kept without proper care. According to FOUR PAWS, more than 60 big cats are estimated to remain in unsuitable private conditions across the country, raising serious animal welfare concerns.

Following confiscation, veterinarians sedated the animals to ensure safe transport during a 70-hour journey across several European countries. On December 13, 2025, Erion arrived at a wild animal sanctuary in southeastern Germany, while Flora was taken to a bear sanctuary in northern Germany. Medical examinations showed that both animals were in poor health, requiring immediate rehabilitation efforts. Flora was found to be underweight with dental problems, while Erion showed significant hair loss in the mane, with the cause still under review. Animal welfare experts have emphasized the long-term implications of weak legal controls, noting that current Albanian laws allow private ownership under limited conditions but lack stringent preventive measures. FOUR PAWS has stated that improved enforcement and clearer regulations are necessary to reduce illegal captivity and protect wild animals more effectively in the future.