Former Circus Tiger Freed After 12 Years Walks On Grass For The First Time

This majestic former circus tiger has spent her whole life caged up, having never walked on grass – until now.

Twelve-year-old Varvara’s world has been made up cage bars and concrete as a performing animal at a circus near Sofia, Bulgaria.

But since the country’s ban on keeping wild animals came into force in January, she has been free – but without a home to go to.

The team check Varvara’s health (Four Paws/Hristo Vladev)

She was kept in a tiny cage on a circus wagon for the last couple of months, where she could hardly move her body.

But now animal rights charity Four Paws has rescued her and relocated her to a new home at the Tierart wildlife sanctuary in Germany.

The last remaining circus tiger in Bulgaria, she is now adjusting to a new life – and seems to be settling in brilliantly.

Her old circus home (Four Paws)

The organisation said: “Just two days after her arrival the abused tigress was curious enough to leave her smaller indoor enclosure.

“Our team opened the doors and Varvara ran outside immediately and started to explore her new home.

“After 12 years of living in a tiny cage, the former circus tiger finally has a natural environment in which to start living the life of a tiger.”

Varvara walks on grass for first time (Four Paws | 2015)

Four Paws has been keeping animals lovers up to date with Varvara’s movements since identifying her earlier in the year.

In September, the team reached an agreement with circus to take her away.

As they put it on Facebook: A happy ending!

(Credit: Four Paws/ Hristo Vladev)