Photo by Josh Hall.
Finalist in the 2025 Tigers in America-Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries annual photo and video contest to celebrate International Tiger Day.
“Naula arrived at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR) in February 2020, along with another tiger named Kiara. They came from a roadside zoo that had to shut down after the owner became ill. Because the zoo was located near TCWR, the Big Cat Sanctuary Alliance (BCSA) reached out to arrange their transfer.
“When Naula arrived, she had a slight limp but was otherwise in good health, especially considering the poor conditions she had lived in previously. She received a full medical evaluation at TCWR’s on-site veterinary clinic, which included routine vaccinations and blood tests to assess her overall health.
“Known for being one of the most photogenic tigers at the Refuge, Naula enjoys putting on a show for the camera. She often hides among the foliage in her enclosure, waiting for the right moment to spring into action, pouncing playfully. A favorite pastime of hers is a playful stalking game where she dashes up to the fence near her keepers, then quickly retreats to begin the chase again. During a wellness exam in April 2024, it was discovered that Naula had a fusion in her metatarsal bones, likely the result of an old injury. Despite this, she continues to receive attentive care to ensure she lives a happy, healthy life at the Refuge.”