Rescue Tigers Shevar and Sharukh
An emergency rescue from Bloemfontein Zoo
Just days before South Africa entered its national lockdown in March 2020, together with multiple other organisations, FOUR PAWS completed an urgent rescue that gave tiger brothers Shevar and Sharukh a second chance at life.
The brothers were relocated from the former Bloemfontein Zoo to LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary near Bethlehem in the Free State. Their rescue formed part of a larger emergency operation that saw around 150 animals placed in ethical, species-appropriate homes after the zoo permanently closed.
The Bloemfontein Zoo had temporarily closed in December 2019 but failed to uphold its commitment to continue caring for the animals that remained. As conditions deteriorated, reports emerged that five animals had died from starvation, prompting an emergency intervention by FOUR PAWS and other animal welfare organisations.
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A New Beginning at LIONSROCK
Estimated to be around eight years old at the time of their rescue, Shevar and Sharukh arrived at LIONSROCK in good physical health, according to veterinarian Dr Peter Caldwell.
Although little was known about their medical history, the brothers adapted quickly to their new surroundings, where they would receive lifelong professional care in spacious, natural habitats designed to meet their physical and behavioural needs.
On 27 March 2020, the Bloemfontein Zoo officially closed its doors permanently, ensuring that the rescued animals would never again face an uncertain future in captivity.
One Year Later and Thriving
By April 2021, Shevar and Sharukh had fully embraced life at LIONSROCK.
The brothers quickly became known for their playful personalities and love of enrichment. They enthusiastically investigated every new item introduced into their habitat and often combined playtime with swimming, happily dragging enrichment toys into their pool before cooling off together.
Their spacious natural enclosure allowed them to express behaviours impossible in their former zoo environment. Whether relaxing on elevated platforms, watching free-ranging game nearby or splashing in the water, the brothers flourished in surroundings that encouraged their instincts.
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Six Years of Progress
Since arriving at LIONSROCK, Shevar and Sharukh have continued to demonstrate remarkable resilience.
Apart from one minor veterinary procedure to treat a wound, both tigers have remained in excellent health. Their individual personalities have become increasingly distinct, yet they continue to share a close bond built over a lifetime together.
Today they remain active, curious and highly engaged with enrichment activities that encourage natural behaviours and support their ongoing wellbeing. Their transformation reflects the positive impact that compassionate, lifelong sanctuary care can have on animals rescued from captivity.
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Shevar and Sharukh's story is one of survival, resilience and hope. Rescued from neglect just before South Africa's lockdown, they now spend their days roaming expansive habitats, swimming, exploring and enjoying the freedom to simply be tigers.
LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, situated just outside Bethlehem in the Free State, is home to nearly 100 rescued big cats from around the world. As one of South Africa's genuine big cat sanctuaries, it provides permanent, species-appropriate care for animals rescued from circuses, zoos, private ownership and other forms of captivity.
For Shevar and Sharukh, what began as an emergency rescue has become a story of recovery, dignity and a future where they can finally live in peace.
