Lioness
A lioness emerges from the brush at the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania.
Joy and Elsa
Joy Adamson embracing her adopted orphan cub Elsa.
A Lion Cub
A young lion at the Selenkay Conservancy in Kenya.
George and Elsa
George Adamson with Elsa in Meru Park, Kenya. He played a key role in reintroducing Elsa into the Kenyan wild.
The Dangerous Wild
Although Elsa was able to return to the wild, the odds were against her. Lions are territorial, competitive, and unwelcoming to newcomers.
Group Living
Lions have complex social structures and live in large groups known as prides.
George's Diaries
George Adamson’s personal diaries and writings give us new insight into Elsa, his relationship with Joy, and the lion rehabilitation projects.
Filming "Born Free"
A still from the 1966 feature film "Born Free." Virginia McKenna, who played Joy in the film, continues to be active in lion conservation efforts.
George's Camp in Kora
An aerial view of George Adamson's lion rehabilitation camp in Kora. He dedicated his life to reintroducing formerly captive lions back into the wild.
Vulnerable Lions
Although lions are rarely associated with the word vulnerable, lion populations are increasingly at-risk due to loss of habitat, loss of prey, and human-lion conflicts.
Tony Fitzjohn by George's Grave
Conservationist Tony Fitzjohn stands by the grave of close friend and mentor, George Adamson. George is buried in Kora Park, next to his favorite lion, Boy.
Elsa's Legacy
The Adamsons' work sparked an appreciation for wildlife and a sense of urgency in protecting animal populations.