You might think Michaela Zimanova is the biological mother of lions Malkia and Adelle, given the heartwarming way they greet her.
But no, she’s more like their fairy godmother, as the Daily Mail puts it.
Michaela has a special bond with these two lion cubs, referring to them affectionately as her “darlings.”
But here’s the twist: Malkia and Adelle were actually abandoned by their own lioness mom when they were just tiny cubs.
Fortunately, their lives took a turn for the better when they were saved by Big Cat Rescue in Slovakia.
Unlike their parents, who were exploited in circuses across Eastern Europe, these two cubs were destined for a life of comfort and care, thanks to the rescue organization.
Growing up, it was people who stepped in to fill the parental void for Malkia and Adelle.
And Michaela was one of those incredible people.
She’s so committed to these lions that she makes the trip to Malkia Park in Slovakia up to three times a month just to spend quality time with her “godchildren.”
What’s even more remarkable is that Michaela is one of only three people who have the privilege of getting up close and personal with these majestic creatures.
That’s how special her relationship is with Malkia and Adelle.
Now, imagine the scene when Michaela finally shows up at the park.
The way these lions react to her after just a few weeks apart would make you think they’d been separated for a lifetime.
Contrary to some media reports that claimed Michaela hadn’t seen the lions in seven years, that’s far from the truth.
A spokesperson for Malkia Park clarified, “That’s not the case, Michaela comes to see them sometimes three times a month.”
“We never play with them as they are dangerous animals, we respect their mood, and only be close to them when they want.”
“It always takes only those few minutes what you see on the video, sometimes less.”
A video captured the moment Michaela was greeted by her lion pals.
Imagine two massive, lions sprinting toward you.
Then, in a heart-stopping moment, they leap up and embrace her from the other side of the fence with both paws.
The lions then lick Michaela with their razor-sharp tongues and even bite gently at her head.
They’re clearly making an effort not to hurt her, although you can hear a few “ows” from Michaela.
“Then they continue running and playing together.
At the age of four, Malkia is a little bit different, she is more wild, so we need to be more aware,” added the park spokesperson.
Watch this astonishing moment in the video below!
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