Siberian tiger Raspoetin was born in 2004 in the Netherlands. and he is the beautiful son of Juno and Cromwell who were rescued from a British zoo. 

His “accidental” conception happened during the preparations for the transport of his brother and sister who sadly passed away in short succession due to heart failure and Raspoetin was left alone.

He arrived at LIONSROCK in 2015 and is ironically regarded as one of the friendliest tigers amongst the team of caretakers and visitors to the Sanctuary. Not only has he stolen the hearts of many, but he is a reminder that these majestic animals do not deserve to live their lives in captivity.

Wild animals belong in the wild. However, where it is necessary to keep wild animals in captive environments, animal welfare standards and species-appropriate habits should always be a pre-condition for acquiring the animals.  

During the 20^th century, the world already lost over 90 percent of its tigers, while current estimates suggest that there are only around 3,900 tigers left in the wild. The relentless demand for tiger parts as well as for animals to be displayed commercially has significantly contributed to the decline of this species. Legal trade often facilitates illegal trade, posing a real threat to the population of wild tigers.

Shockingly, tigers born in Europe in captivity are still traded for commercial purposes: for the circus ring or private keeping, as well as for photo opportunities. In some European countries, you can even rent a tiger for private parties!