Rescued Tiger from Poland-Belarus Border to Find New Home in Bristol Zoo
Aqua, a tiger rescued from dire conditions on the Poland-Belarus border, will soon start a new chapter at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Bristol.
Discovered in distress in 2019 alongside several other tigers during a border check, Aqua was a victim of the illegal wildlife trade. He was initially cared for by the Spanish animal welfare charity AAP Primadomus at their rescue center in Villena. Known for his love of water, Aqua has since recovered and is set to move to the UK this summer.
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is currently fundraising £175,000 to build a specialized tiger habitat featuring secluded woodland and two pond areas where Aqua can thrive. The relocation is part of the zoo’s Project Carnivora, which also includes adding Arctic foxes and vultures to the zoo’s collection and expanding its lion enclosure.
“His story is one of survival and resilience,” said Larry Bush, the zoo’s director. “Meeting Aqua has been transformative for our team—he’s truly captured our hearts.”
AAP Primadomus praised the collaboration, with Pablo Delgado stating, “In Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, we found the ideal partner to offer Aqua a new and forever home.”
Work on Project Carnivora is expected to be completed this spring.