Animals belong in their natural habitat – and in the case of wild animals, this is of course the wild.
So far, so good and well known. Taking them out of this habitat can affect them in many different ways.
It can have a negative effect on their growth – especially if they have been kept in a cage and without proper food for a large part of their lives.
Survival of the fittest
Their behavior and mental attitude also change – both towards humans and other animals.
But one of the biggest concerns is: do they even know how to survive in the wild?
Let’s take leopards for example. They hunt their prey in order to survive. They learn to move quietly in the wild so as not to become prey themselves.
However, it is possible that they have forgotten all this because they have been in captivity all their lives.
This fate almost befell Bono too – if it hadn’t been for concerned authorities.
Born in a cage
Bono saw the light of day in Lithuania – as a pet. He was kept like this for more than a year and never learned what it means to be out in the wild.
All he knew was the four walls of the apartment where his owner kept him locked up.
He became overweight because he didn’t get enough exercise. His owner had also pulled out all his claws, which is cruelty to animals either way.
Bono is rescued
The responsible authorities decided to rescue Bono and impose a hefty fine on the owner.
In the meantime, Bono was taken to Riga Zoo, from where he was to go to AAP Primadomus .
This is a non-profit organization for primates and wild animals based in Spain.
Through snow and ice
The journey to Spain took almost two days and was accompanied by constantly changing weather. Bono became more anxious and excited with every kilometer.
However, his rescuer Robert managed to deliver him safely to AAP, where Bono slowly recovered.
After a few days, Bono was allowed to sniff freedom for the first time. He really blossomed – to everyone’s delight.
It will still be a while before he is allowed and able to live in the wild – but this time there is no need to rush.
