This spectacular carnivore is a resident of the Glen Garriff Preservation lion shelter in South Africa.

The six-year-old lion was photographed by Simon Needham, a British wildlife photographer, that was ‘shocked’ by Moya’s looks the first time he saw him.

‘ I love animals, however Moya’s spectacular coat blew me away the very first time I saw it,’ he said.

‘ It was hard to get close to him, but I had a couple of moments when he came close enough for me to get a couple of great shots as he walked his territory.

‘ When you are in the moment you do not really get a chance to appreciate the charm of everything but obviously, afterwards, I realised what lovely pictures we had.’

There are several white lions in the conservation but they are very unusual in the wild.

Their coloring is a result of a genetic anomaly called leucism, which resembles albinism but not as extreme.

Simon said he hoped his photographs of Moya would help raise awareness of the sanctuary and the plight of lions in the wild.

He added: ‘I believe the story is just one of conservation awareness and to highlight the very serious issues that lie in this world where a lot of the most famous animals are on the brink of extinction in the wild.

‘ If I can assist to contribute to this in some little method then I’m honored to be able to assist.’

Simon works as a director and expert photographer and sells work, providing 50% back to conservations.

‘ I’m truly pleased that we can bring some light onto this subject and at the same time bring support to GG Conservation,’ he said