Two tigers

AAP takes in two tigers after the closure of a wild animal petting zoo in Germany

Tigers Nashik (formerly Tonga) and Mara have been used for entertainment with the public their entire lives. Visitors of the German Filmtierpark Eschede could take photos with the animals and even touch them. Nashik and Mara were also loaned out to appear in films. Now that the park has fortunately closed, we can temporarily take care of these two tigers at our rescue centre in Spain.
Front of a building with a banner.
The zoo offered visitors contact with all its animals.

Last inhabitants

The two tigers Mara and Nashik, along with an older tigress, are the last animals to find a new home. They will move to Gotha Zoo in Germany following the permanent closure of Filmtierpark Eschede.

The oldest tigress has already been transferred to the zoo. However, the facilities for Mara and Nashik are still under construction. Until their completion next year, AAP will temporarily take care of the two tigers.

Permanent closure

The Filmtierpark Eschede was permanently closed after a wolf bit an 8-year old child. The numerous wild animals that were part of this zoo’s collection participated in television programmes, films and documentaries.

They were also used for encounters with paying zoo visitors, who were allowed to take photos with them. Until 2021, visitors could even pet animals like lions and tigers like Nashik and Mara…

Woman feeding a tiger behind a fence.
The adult tigers were fed by visitors through the fence.

Collaboration

Because it was best for the tigers’ wellbeing, the German district of Celle requested AAP’s help in removing the last tigers from the park and thus achieving its final closure. While AAP is taking over the specific care of the tigers, the district authorities are responsible for their maintenance costs for as long as it takes to complete the facilities.

"We are very pleased to have found a good solution for the tigers from the former Eschede Filmtierpark. Animal welfare was our top priority, and I believe we can guarantee this through AAP and subsequently in Gotha."

Man holding a tiger.
One of the zoo keepers, with what appears to be Nashik.
Tiger in a cage.
Mara was used in films.
Temporary home at AAP

The 12-year-old tigress Mara and her son, a 9-year-old white tiger now named Nashik, have just arrived at their temporary home at AAP Spain. Here, they will receive the necessary professional care until they can finally be transferred to Gotha Zoo mid 2026.

The two have been living together until the end of 2024, when Mara apparently began to show aggression towards Nashik. Therefore, they will spend their quarantine at AAP separately, and we hope to be able to socialise them again so that they can share their lives together without problems.

“Tigers Mara and Tonga have arrived safely at our rescue centre. After the necessary quarantine period, they will have access to the outdoor facilities where they can enjoy the space and live an animal worthy life.”

Two tigers

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