A Bristol zoo is the new home for a rescue tiger who has been saved from suffering and poor conditions. Aqua is moving to Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm this summer.
Now the conversation charity and award-winning zoo is calling for help to raise £175,000 to support the build of its new tiger habitat and Aqua’s ongoing care. In 2019, Aqua was one of several tigers saved by international animal welfare charity Animal Advocacy and Protection at the Poland/Belarus border.
Aqua and the tigers had endured appalling conditions during a journey across Europe. The animals were very scared, nervous, and stressed and needed a lot of time to feel safe and secure at AAP’s Primadomus rescue centre in Spain.
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm announced its ambitious plans for Project Carnivora late last year. The multi-phased project will first transform the existing lion pride’s habitat and then create new spaces to welcome tigers, Arctic foxes and vultures, creating an environment where these incredible animals can thrive.
Work on Project Carnivora is well under way, the transformation of the lion’s habitat for mum, Arusha, and brothers, Kojo and Tau is taking shape in front of visitor’s eyes, with work expected to complete in Spring 2025. Aqua’s new home will be located close to the lions within secluded woodland, providing a tranquil and enriching new environment.
The new habitat has been designed with Aqua’s needs at the centre of the development. Due to Aqua’s love of water, his new home will also feature two pond areas to provide =enrichment through physical exercise, enabling him to feel right at home.
Visitors can look forward to immersive viewing areas and interactive learning opportunities. Play facilities will emulate elements of the animals’ habitats, allowing a greater connection with these majestic animals and an inspiring visitor experience.
Director of Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm Larry Bush said: “Meeting Aqua has been transformative for our team, he’s truly captured the hearts of the team. His story is one of survival and resilience, and it is an honour that in partnership with AAP, we’re able to offer him this second chance.
“We are committed to continuing to raise awareness for the importance of conservation of endangered species, while providing next level care. Providing a forever home for animals like Aqua is at the core of that vision.
“Project Carnivora is an ambitious project and with your help, together, we can raise the £175,000 needed to welcome Aqua into his forever home.”
Following his rescue, Aqua has been able to recover in a habitat including a swimming pool – a source of joy and enrichment for him as tigers love to swim and play in water. Aqua’s story is a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight against the illegal wildlife trade.
His rescue shone a global spotlight on the plight of exotic animals trafficked under cruel and inhumane conditions. Pablo Delgado at AAP, said: “In Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm we found the ideal partner to offer Aqua a new and forever home. Noah’s Ark is not only planning to build an amazing enclosure, but they also have a very high standard in animal care and strive for the best wellbeing of their animals.”
By supporting Aqua’s journey, the public can help turn a story of pain and survival into one of hope and healing. Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is committed to creating environments where animals can thrive and visitors can forge meaningful connections with wildlife.
By donating to Aqua’s new home, the public can be part of the vital mission to offer a second chance to animals like Aqua, who have endured unimaginable hardships. To support the fundraising campaign and help create a forever home for Aqua, donations can be made via the charity’s Just Giving page.
For the latest news and updates, and to find out more about Project Carnivora visit here or follow @noahsarkzoobristol on Instagram and TikTok and @Noahs_Ark_Zoo on X.