Rescued tiger Aqua finds forever home at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm

Aqua, a tiger rescued from illegal trafficking, has now found a forever home here at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, marking a new chapter in our ongoing commitment to animal welfare and conservation.

Aqua, who was among several tigers saved by Animal Advocacy and Protection (AAP) at the Poland/Belarus border in 2019, has spent the past years recovering at AAP’s Primadomus rescue centre in Villena, Spain. He is the final tiger of the rescued pack to find a permanent home

After a short period of careful acclimatisation in an off-show enclosure, Aqua has today been introduced to his new purpose-built.

The move is the latest milestone in Project Carnivora, a major development launched in 2024 to champion the welfare of iconic and threatened carnivores. The project has already delivered a new, enhanced lion enclosure for our lions, mother and son duo, Arusha and Tau.

We will now continue our fundraising to support Aqua’s new beginnings and create further habitats where more carnivores in need can thrive and find sanctuary.

Project Carnivora also includes plans to expand the tiger habitat with a second indoor shelter, and a further field, and build habitats for arctic foxes, hooded vultures; and in time, rescue more endangered animals.

Aqua’s new habitat has been thoughtfully designed by specialist zoo architect Jonathan McLoughlin of zoo design consultancy Dearadh Zu, encompassing several features to reflect his habitat in the wild, and support his continued wellbeing.

Feeding poles and climbing platforms will provide vital enrichment, encouraging natural behaviours like hunting, leaping and surveying from a height, maintaining his strength and ensuring mental stimulation. His new home also features a new pool area to fulfil his love of water and swimming, enabling him to feel right at home.

As part of the wider visitor experience, Project Carnivora has created 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.

Aqua was initially due to arrive in summer, but his arrival was slightly delayed due to the completion of essential international conservation paperwork. We have been working closely with CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) to ensure his safe and legal transfer.

Larry Bush, our Zoo Director, said: “We’re incredibly proud to welcome Aqua to Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, continuing our conservation of endangered species.

“We are committed to providing Aqua with the highest standard of care and a stimulating environment where he can truly thrive.

“We hope Aqua’s journey inspires our visitors to learn more about protecting endangered species and to support our ongoing efforts to give these magnificent animals a safe and enriching future.”

Emma Ogborne, Head West Section Keeper, added: “Aqua’s story is one of incredible endurance and resilience and marks another significant milestone in our ongoing journey to protect and nurture endangered species at Noah’s Ark.

“Building on the successes we have achieved with Project Carnivora, we are thrilled to welcome Aqua and continue inspiring future generations to care for wildlife.

“His journey is testament to the passion and dedication of our team, our supporters, and our wider community, as we work together to secure a future where animals and people thrive side by side.”

To donate to the Rescue Appeal, and support Aqua’s new beginnings, and more endangered species visit our fundraising page below:

Donate