Viral Footage Shows Rescue Lioness Who Keeps Hugging The Man Who Rescued Her Years Ago
Some bonds between humans and animals are so unusual they almost seem impossible, and Sirga the lioness is a perfect example.
Valentin Gruener rescued her when she was just a few days old, and years later, the two still greet each other with hugs, cuddles, and plenty of affection. A recent video of their morning reunion spread quickly online, giving people another look at the trust they built from the very beginning.
Sirga may be a lioness, but around Valentin, she acts more like a devoted house cat. Read on.
Ten years later, this very lucky man still enjoys morning cuddles with his massive furry friend - a gentle lioness

Despite her size and natural abilities, the massive lioness is a gentle giant. She adores people and is a very sociable lioness, despite what others may think of her size and fierceness.
Watch the heartwarming and viral footage of his lioness friend’s reaction when she sees him in the morning
Gruener and Sirga first met in 2012, under less-than-ideal circumstances. Gruener discovered the now-mighty lioness when she was only a few days old and in serious distress.
"Sirga thinks of me as a best friend. She loves to give me a big hug"

Her mother rejected her shortly after birth in a rehabilitation center, and she was the only survivor of the litter. Their friendship began there, highlighting the profound emotional ties that can develop across species.
This also echoes the circus bond between Peru's lion couple, where a devoted lion stayed by an ailing mate.
Gruener and Sirga initially met in 2012, and the circumstances were not the best

Sirga is a very gentle cat for such a large animal, and when Valentin goes to see her, she always hugs him, just like in the video. She has a very friendly and gentle character for a lion, which is unusual for her species.
Watch their YouTube story by clicking the video below
Lions have deadly instincts and predatory intelligence, but they also possess emotional intelligence. No wonder Sirga treats her rescuer with profound respect and love because of the bond they built years ago.
This story astounded us, as did the video of Valentin and Sirga hugging each other. So let us know your reactions in the comments section below.
That bond still has people stopping to watch.
See how Leo stayed loyal to Muñeca, even as her health faded.