The Lions in the Warzone

When Cam Whitnall saw a video of five lions fighting for survival in war-torn Ukraine, he made a decision that would change his life - and theirs - forever.

In this episode of Wildest Moments, host Ben Fogle speaks with the wildlife photographer, author, presenter and Managing Director of The Big Cat Sanctuary, about his extraordinary childhood growing up in a zoo and how it ultimately led to a dramatic rescue mission that captured hearts around the world.

Joining the conversation is ZSL Curator of Mammals Sarah Forsyth, who offers insight into the unique expertise required to carry out complex wildlife rescues, and the remarkable skills, collaboration and dedication of the people working for wildlife in zoos and conservation organisations around the globe.

Together they explore how encounters with animals can inspire a lifetime of conservation action and offer hope for the future.

It's a powerful story of perseverance, compassion and the human drive to protect wildlife even in the most impossible circumstances.

About Wildest Moments: Hosted by Ben Fogle and created in partnership with Mountain Warehouse, Wildest Moments is a podcast from ZSL (Zoological Society of London) exploring the surprising, emotional and transformative encounters people have had with wildlife. New episodes are released on the third Thursday of every month. Launched as part of ZSL's 200th anniversary, the series celebrates over two centuries of inspiring closer connections between people and the natural world.

Credits

Executive Producers - Rami Tzabar, Jane Gerber and Katie Derham

Senior Producer - Naomi Oiku

Production Supervisor - Mia Xerri Mondragon

Sound Design and Additional Editing - Nada Smiljanić

Sound Engineer - Jon Last

Video Editor - Carla Mercer

Cover Art - Will Rose

ZSL editorial leads: Tina Campanella and Rebecca Blanchard

Recorded at TYX Studios, London.