Two tiger siblings rescued from Germany’s captive breeding industry will reach a milestone on 23 October, marking seven years at Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary near Bethlehem.

Bela and Sharuk (12) arrived at the Free State sanctuary in October 2019 after spending four years in the care of Four Paws, an international animal welfare organisation, in Germany.

The tigers were born in private captivity in Mittelbuch, Germany, on 8 May 2014. Their owner was forced to rehome them after changes to regulations governing the keeping of dangerous exotic animals came into effect.

When the owner failed to secure suitable accommodation for the cubs, Four Paws intervened. The siblings were transferred to Tierart Wild Animal Sanctuary in Germany on 31 July 2015.

The pair’s early lives were marked by tragedy when their sister, Imara, died in March 2015.

Upon arrival at Lionsrock, the siblings responded differently to their new environment. Bela displayed nervousness and insecurity, while Sharuk showed greater confidence and began adjusting more quickly.

The tigers now have access to a spacious habitat featuring forested areas, climbing structures, elevated resting places and a large pool. The sanctuary’s team provides daily care to ensure the animals remain healthy and have an environment suited to their needs.

Hildegard Pirker, sanctuary manager at Lionsrock, said the siblings’ progress demonstrated the importance of patience and specialised care when working with rescued animals.

“Although the tigers had initially been cautious and unsure, they had gradually become more confident in their surroundings,” Pirker said.

She added that rescuing an animal was only the first step, with lifelong sanctuary care needed to help animals that had experienced unsuitable conditions recover and thrive.

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