Rescue Tigers Mirza, Rafik, Zita and Raspoetin

Born on 13 July 2009 at FELIDA Big Cat Sanctuary, Mirza, Rafik, and Zita are three remarkable tiger siblings whose story began with an unexpected twist. At the time of their birth, FELIDA's management policy was to avoid neutering unless necessary, as it was believed that this could affect the animals' natural behaviours. Instead, males and females were kept apart during mating seasons.

However, a delay in separating their parents, Juno and Cromwell, led to an unplanned litter: Mirza, Rafik, and Zita. Like their older brother Raspoetin, the trio grew into powerful, gentle giants with striking appearances and calm demeanours.

On 7 May 2015, the entire family, Juno, Cromwell, Raspoetin, Mirza, Rafik, and Zita, was transferred to LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary in South Africa, a project of FOUR PAWS, where they could live out their lives in spacious, species-appropriate enclosures surrounded by peace and dignity.

Since their arrival, Juno and Cromwell have sadly passed away, with Raspoetin passing away in October 2025. Their legacy, however, lives on through the remaining animals. Mirza, Rafik, and Zita continue to thrive in their new home, embodying the spirit of second chances and underscoring the importance of responsible care for wild animals.