Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Wraxhall is preparing to welcome Aqua, a rescued tiger, into a specially designed new habitat this summer.

Having been saved from suffering and poor conditions, Aqua now has a second chance at life, and is waiting to move to his new home.

The conversation charity and award-winning zoo is now calling on the public’s help to raise £175,000 to support the build of their new tiger habitat and Aqua’s ongoing care.

In 2019, Aqua was one of several tigers saved by international animal welfare charity, AAP (Animal Advocacy and Protection), at the Poland and Belarus border. Aqua and the tigers had endured appalling conditions during a journey across Europe. The tigers were very scared, nervous, and stressed and needed a lot of time to feel safe and secure at AAP’s Primadomus rescue centre, in Villena, 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 underway, 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 exciting enrichment through physical exercise, enabling him to feel right at home.

Larry Bush, director of Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, said: “Meeting Aqua has been transformative for our team, he’s truly captured the hearts of the team here at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm. 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.”

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. While Aqua is one of the lucky ones, he serves as a testament to the urgent need for continued conservation efforts.

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.”

For updates on Project Carnivora, visit www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk or follow @noahsarkzoobristol on Instagram and TikTok, and @Noahs_Ark_Zoo on X.