Oleg Zubkov, the passionate owner of Taigan Safari Park in Russian-occupied Crimea, is in a life-or-death struggle after being attacked by a lion at his own park. The 57-year-old, who has spent years nurturing the largest lion breeding center in Europe, was seriously injured during a feeding session in an enclosure. The lion responsible is the same one that killed a park worker last year, adding to the shock of this tragic event. Zubkov is now in critical condition, with severe wounds to his head, neck, and lungs.
The park, home to around 60 African lions, has seen its share of sorrow. In October 2024, 41-year-old Leokadiya Perevalova lost her life to this lion after leaving a safety gate open, a mistake Zubkov said lions do not forgive. Despite that loss, the lion remained at the park, and now it has turned on Zubkov himself, catching him off guard during a routine task. The attack has left the park community reeling.
A daring rescue unfolded as 58-year-old employee Tatyana Aleksagina drove a buggy close to the lion and threw a bucket to distract it, freeing Zubkov from its jaws. A brave visitor named Alexei also jumped into the enclosure, helping to pull Zubkov to safety as onlookers shouted in panic. The scene was described as chaotic, with the lion dragging Zubkov like a ragdoll before the quick actions of his rescuers.
Zubkov was immediately taken to a hospital in a Mercedes, arriving unconscious and in dire need of surgery. On June 22, doctors performed a complex operation, doing all they could to save him. A source close to the park said his family is devastated, grappling with the suddenness of the attack. Supporters are holding onto hope, praying for Zubkov’s recovery and wishing strength to the man who has devoted his life to these powerful animals.
