Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm has announced ambitious plans to create a dedicated sanctuary for Aqua, the rescued tiger, aiming to provide him with the ideal environment he truly deserves. The decision, which is poised to welcome Aqua this summer, is fueled by the animal's remarkable story of survival after facing horrendous conditions during his transport just six years ago.
According to the zoo's director, Larry Bush, "His story is one of survival and resilience." Aqua was among the group of tigers found at the Poland-Belarus border amid dire circumstances. Unfortunately, he was one of ten tigers involved in a trafficking operation, and the conditions under which they were rescued were far from suitable for such majestic creatures.
The news of the sanctuary was shared on social media as part of Noah's Ark Zoo Farm's broader initiative, dubbed Project Carnivora. Not only will Aqua benefit from this sanctuary, but the project also includes plans to expand the lion enclosure and introduce new species such as Arctic foxes and vultures.
The public finding campaign launched recently aims to raise £175,000 (approximately €42,120 or $43,780), which will cover the establishment of Aqua's new home complete with secluded woodland and ponds—features well-suited to the tiger’s love for water.
The plight of Aqua and the other tigers is all too real. During the 2019 incident at the Poland-Belarus border near Koroszczyn, one of the animals tragically did not survive the ordeal of being transported. Aqua was among the nine tigers who endured this harrowing experience, originally destined for the illegal market of exotic animals.
The case against those responsible for the transport resulted in charges against the transport organizer, two drivers, and two veterinarians. This legal action highlights the seriousness of wildlife trafficking and the need for constant vigilance to protect animals like Aqua.
Support from the public has been pivotal in securing Aqua’s future. The zoo has affirmed its commitment to raising awareness about the prevalence of wildlife trafficking and enriching the habitat for rescued animals. The sanctuary will symbolize hope and recovery, serving as both refuge and rehabilitation for creatures scarred by human actions.
Alongside Aqua’s sanctuary, the zoo plans to implement educational programs to inform visitors about the threats faced by wildlife due to trafficking. These initiatives will seek to build empathy for wildlife and act as a call to action for everyone, inviting them to participate and contribute to the safeguarding of endangered species.
Noah's Ark Zoo Farm embodies the values of justice, compassion, and responsibility toward animals. By providing Aqua with this new haven, the zoo is setting a precedent for wildlife facilities everywhere and sending the message: every life is valuable, and every effort to save one is worth it.