The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) announced on Thursday that Baboo, a Bengal tiger rescued over two years ago in the federal capital, has been successfully relocated to a sanctuary in South Africa this week.

Baboo was discovered at a vet’s office in Islamabad on December 7, 2022, when he was just four months old. He suffered from severe malnourishment and multiple bone fractures. Since then, the IWMB and Second Chance Wildlife (SCW) have been caring for him.

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Under the guidance of The Aspinall Foundation in South Africa, Baboo received extensive medical treatment and rehabilitative care in Pakistan, including a tailored diet, daily physical therapy, and exposure to sunlight.

Now 17 months old and weighing over 70 kg, Baboo safely completed his journey to South Africa, the IWMB announced in a press release. After a road trip to Islamabad Airport, he boarded two international flights and reached the Isindile Big Cat and Predator Sanctuary in South Africa following a lengthy road transfer from OR Tambo International Airport.

At the sanctuary, Baboo will be joining another rescued female tiger and will have specially constructed platforms and a splash pool in his new habitat. The sanctuary currently houses only one female tiger named Amber, whose enclosure is adjacent to Baboo’s. The IWMB expressed hope that the two tigers would develop a special bond over time.