After being rescued some time ago by hunter and municipal police officer Ziad Housher from the Municipality of Dhour El Choueir, and receiving treatment from veterinarians Johnny and Naji Saab, “Simba” the hyena was released into the Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve.
The release was coordinated between Adonis El-Khatib, President of the Middle East Center for Sustainable Harvest and Anti-Poaching (MECSHAP), and Samer Dhibian, Director of the reserve. Also present were Shireen Bou Rafoul, International Operations Coordinator of the Anti-Poaching Unit (APU) and representative of CABS in Lebanon; Maroun Bou Rafoul, Head of the APU Land Operations Division; as well as members of the operations team and the reserve team.
“Simba” had suffered a gunshot wound to the neck. Following coordinated rescue and veterinary care, he made a full recovery and regained the ability to return to the wild. The reserve’s specialized team selected a suitable release site and ensured appropriate natural conditions to give him a genuine chance to settle and survive. Simba then calmly made his way back into his natural habitat.
This event highlights that responsible hunters are essential partners in protecting the environment, and that respecting hunting laws and preserving wildlife are fundamental to safeguarding the natural balance. Responsible hunting is not merely about harvesting wildlife; it is about commitment, ethics, and awareness—with hunters acting first and foremost as guardians of nature.
