Rescued lynx takes first steps after fleeing war-torn Ukraine

The traumatized big cat named Ursa was found seriously ill in January this year after being illegally kept as a private pet in Kyiv.

She was moved to a wild animal rescue center in the Ukrainian capital while the war raged and bombs continued to fall in the surrounding area.

The Big Cat Sanctuary near Ashford, Kent, raised over £134,000 ($178,890) needed to evacuate Ursa and bring her to a new home in Britain.

Staff embarked upon a "high risk" mission to rescue the big cat, which included navigating an active war zone and complex border crossings.

After flying her back to safety in February she was then moved into a temporary enclosure while a specially built new one could be built.

This week she took her first steps on grass outdoors for the first time after the purpose-built enclosure was finally opened.

Cam Whitnall, wildlife expert and managing director of The Big Cat Sanctuary, said "To see Ursa take her first steps here in Kent was an incredibly emotional moment for the whole team.

"This mission was fraught with unpredictability, navigating a war zone with a vulnerable apex predator, but seeing her safe makes every risk worthwhile.

"Ursa has spent her life under the shadow of conflict and neglect; now, that story has changed. She is finally in her forever home".

Ursa was moved into the new home alongside other wild cats previously rescued in the UK, including another Eurasian lynx called Rhys, a bobcat called Blob and a fishing cat named Boson.

Cam added: "Today represents a huge milestone not only for our sanctuary, but for the future conservation of smaller wild cat species globally.

"While the larger apex predators often dominate the headlines, these smaller cats face severe threats in the wild from habitat loss and human encroachment.

"By combining world-class welfare with cutting-edge technology, we are securing a sustainable future population and ensuring these remarkable animals are no longer overlooked."