Friendship has no boundaries, regardless of language, culture, geography, or even species.
Most pet owners say that their dogs and cats are their best friends, but Valentin Gruener, who is interested in wildlife, has a different kind of friend.
It’s safe to assume that Val’s best friend is Sirga the lion. They jump at each other every time they see each other because they have a special bond.
Val thinks Sirga might be the nicest lion in the world, but he warns against trying to make friends with her because it could be dangerous: “She is always gentle and friendly, despite her size. But I’m the only person who talks to her. People she doesn’t know well would be in danger.
Val tells the story of how they met like this: “Ten years ago, Sirga’s mother stopped feeding her, so I had to raise her myself.”
“Sirga the lioness was born on February 25, 2012, to wild lions that were caught after they were found to be “problem animals” in livestock areas. They were kept and cared for on the property of Grassland Bushman Lodge grounds.”
When her mother stopped feeding her, Valentin began taking care of her.
Right away, they got along well. At that point, the Sirga started to hug Valentin every time they saw him.
As time went on, Sirga kept getting older, and as she did, they became closer.
Sirga and Valentin can now take a break in the 2,000-hectare area that was made just for her.
But now that Sirga has her own land to run, she can, even though her kingdom is very peaceful and doesn’t have many problems.
“Today she lives in a 2000 ha reserve specially set up for her where she can hunt and live as freely as possible under her circumstances.”
“I’m still there for her every single day. I live with Sirga in the middle of the bush in Botswana.”
Most of the time, they hang out in the shade, explore Sirga’s domain, and, of course, cuddle there.
Valentin Grüner says that taking care of Sirga had a hugely positive effect on him as a person.
“I’ve always loved animals, but Sirga made a big difference in my life. Being in charge of her teaches me every day what it means to really be there for someone else.
“As long as I live, I will always be by her side and fight for her wild relatives to stay alive.”
Wonderful to behold! Makes me want to try to hug Sirga myself. But I understand the rules, so I can just dream about it and be very happy.
It’s an awesome story animals going to have a profound effect on people I’ve experienced something similar myself with a mountain lion God bless