Sunday, March 5, 7:00pm ET/PT – CBS 60 Minutes will air ADI’s dramatic rescue of 33 circus lions from Peru and Colombia back to their native Africa.

60 Minutes traveled to Peru to meet the lions and will show exclusive on the ground footage from the ADI rescue center in Peru, as the lions are loaded into their travel crates and prepare for their flight home to Africa. You will get to meet some of the animals at the rescue center and 60 Minutes sits down to talk with the rescuers, ADI President Jan Creamer and VP Tim Phillips, about the work that went into this massive, complex rescue operation. Watch the trailer.

ADI’s Operation Spirit of Freedom is the biggest operation of its kind, collaborating with Peru authorities to enforce its law banning wild animal circuses and raiding circuses all over the country. As part of its ongoing mission, ADI saved 109 animals from circuses and the illegal wildlife trade in Peru, with the final bear taken back to the forest just last week.

ADI President Jan Creamer said, “Viewers will be thrilled by 60 Minutes exclusive look as rescuers race against the clock to carefully load our precious cargo of 33 rescued lions for their long journey home to Africa where freedom roars. Circuses across Peru were raided and animals saved from suffering in circuses. Thanks to determined wildlife officials and public support, we’ve been able to save over 100 animals. Now we are asking people to help us build the lions’ forever homes.”

Donate now with a one-time donation, or you can also set up a monthly donation to help support the animals rescued during Operation Spirit of Freedom.