Tigers are one of the most majestic yet endangered animals on the planet. In fact, there are now more tigers in captivity across the world than there are in the wild. Many of these are kept in the US and China, sadly as pets or for commercial breeding and entertainment purposes. However, thanks to the efforts of animal rescue charities and sanctuaries, some lucky tigers have managed to escape the poor conditions in which they have been kept and now enjoy a happier life. Here are some of the most notable rescued tigers. 

Jem and Zoe

After Tiger King aired on Netflix in March 2020, the roadside zoo at the centre of the show was closed down and almost 70 big cats were rescued, including tigers Jem and Zoe. The pair were relocated to the Lions, Tigers & Bears sanctuary in San Diego, California, where they still live today. Now, they have a nutritious diet, proper veterinary care and plenty of enrichment activities to keep them amused, all supported by a caring team of professionals. 

Ming

In a case that shocked America, a three-year-old tiger was discovered in 2003 living in an apartment in New York. The tiger, named Ming, was rescued and relocated to Noah’s Lost Ark in Ohio where, due to the media attention around his story, he was kept in a quiet enclosure. For many years, visitors were not allowed to see him, although the sanctuary’s policy changed later on. He lived out his days happily, playing, running and swimming in his pool. 

Aqua

In 2019, ten tigers were rescued at the border of Poland and Belarus as they were being transported on a truck. Aqua was among five of the tigers who were transferred to renowned animal charity AAP in Spain where they were properly cared for. He was finally transferred to his forever home at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Bristol in October 2025, where he has his own, purpose-built habitat and the care of the dedicated zoo staff. If you live near Bristol, you may even be able to go and see him. 

The Born Free tigers

The first rescue that Born Free founder, Virginia McKenna, ever carried out with the charity was of six tigers who had been kept in a circus in Kent. McKenna and her team not only saved the tigers from captivity in the UK, they were able to transport them to India - one of the remaining natural homes of tigers - where they had several acres of unspoilt habitat to roam around in. The tigers weren’t given names, but their story ended happily. 

Join a tiger for tea

You can join a rather different tiger for tea this spring and summer at the children’s play of Judith Kerr’s much loved picture book, The Tiger Who Came to Tea. Touring the UK until August, this Olivier Award-nominated production is one of the best theatre shows for families, introducing kids aged three and up to the magic of live performance. Book your tickets for this fun-filled children’s show today.