Freed Circus Lions Begin A New Life In South Africa Apr16 Jan Creamer: President of Animal Defenders International (ADI) Tim Phillips: Vice President of Animal Defenders International(ADI) The lions were rescued from circuses in Colombia & Peru. Animal Defenders International (ADI), which was behind the action, says almost all the lions have had teeth or claws removed & wouldn't survive in the wild. The 33 lions were given their first chance to explore their new home at the Emoya Big Cat Sanctuary just north of Johannesburg on Sunday after a two-day journey from South America.