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Saving Lions
by Jeanne
Bathgate
My name is Jeanne Bathgate, and I am a long-haul Airline
Captain. Flying aeroplanes has always been my ambition,
right from the age of five. Thankfully a supportive family,
perseverance and guidance helped me to realize my aim.
I
began work as a Flying Instructor near to London when I was
nineteen. Later, when I had gained more qualifications, I
worked as an Air Taxi pilot, flying jockeys to horse racing
meetings, and businessmen or celebrities to
destinations around Europe.
The next step was as a Cargo pilot, which gave me the
opportunity to fly a large four engine propeller aircraft,
now only seen in a museum!
Finally, I became an Airline pilot nearly 21 years ago, and
have held the position of Captain for ten years on the
Boeing 747 aircraft. I am extremely fortunate not only to
realize my childhood dream, but also to become a wife and
mother.
My work takes me all over the world, and recently I became
aware of a project to rescue some captive-bred lions near
to Cape Town, South Africa.
Paul Hart, who rescues any lion in need, is trying to save the lives of another 20 animals from the 'Canned' hunting industry. 'Canned' hunting is a term used when animals have been specifically bred to be used in a captive trophy hunt. The whole situation for these unfortunate lions is deeply disturbing. Sadly, few laws exist that protect the welfare of these animals, and there are literally thousands held in inappropriate conditions, waiting for the inevitable.
I have become deeply involved in helping to raise awareness about the disturbing plight of these farmed lions, and in helping to raise funds for the construction of some new homes ('Camps') so that Paul Hart can rescue up to 20 animals, and give them a safe new home.
In February 2008, South African legislation is expected to change with regard to how the farmed lions are to be kept prior to being hunted, and it will mean that a huge number of captive bred lions will be abandoned owing to increased costs in building larger enclosures for the animals. Sadly, these lions cannot be rehabilitated in to the wild, and will need to find a new home. Most will not.
With whatever spare time I have, I try to find some attention and funding for the lions, and hope that Paul will be able to raise enough money to build the new homes by February. Hopefully, there will be a happy ending to the story for at least a handful of lions.
More information about Paul the amazing work he does at Drakenstein Lion Park rescue facility can be found at:
www.lionrescue.org.za
Thank you for reading about my life and concerns.
If you would like to help the lions in any way at all, I would be delighted to hear from you.
Email: savelions@aol.com