Travellers' Choice™ Best of the Best

Meet Moka: A Tale of Survival and Friendship

At Lions Tigers & Bears, each animal has a unique story that reflects their journey of survival and resilience. Moka the tiger is no exception. Rescued from a life of uncertainty and danger, Moka's story is one of hope, friendship, and a fresh start in a safe and loving environment.

In August 2017, Moka was just a two-month-old tiger cub when he was rescued from smugglers attempting to import him across the border from Mexico to the US. The authorities intercepted the smugglers, who were later sentenced to nine months in federal prison. The tiny, vulnerable cub was sent to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, where he remained under the facility's care for about a year.

Despite the care Moka received at the Safari Park, his future was uncertain. Being a generic tiger, he couldn't stay at the Safari Park or in Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) zoo, as he wouldn't be part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP) breeding program. In June 2018, the US Fish & Wildlife Service reached out to us at Lions Tigers & Bears to provide Moka with a permanent home.

Read More
Name
Moka
BORN DATE
8/1/2017
RESCUE DATE
6/3/2018
GENDER
Male
FAVORITE FOOD
Beef

A New Friend and A Bright Future

Upon his arrival, Moka quickly adjusted to his new surroundings. Shortly after, he was introduced to Nola, a white tiger cub of similar age. Bobbi, our founder & director, carefully observed their behavior, initially placing Moka and Nola at opposite ends of a habitat with gates in between. Slowly, as the two cubs grew more comfortable and curious about each other, the gates were removed, allowing them to interact and eventually live together.

Today, Moka and Nola share a special bond, thriving in their safe, enriched habitat. Their companionship is a beautiful testament to the healing power of friendship and the importance of providing these magnificent animals with the care and environment they deserve.

Moka’s story highlights the critical work we do at Lions Tigers & Bears. His transformation from a smuggled cub to a thriving tiger at our sanctuary underscores the impact of dedicated care and compassion. Moka's journey is a powerful reminder of why we continue to fight for the well-being of every animal that comes into our care.

Visit us at Lions Tigers & Bears to meet Moka and hear more about his incredible journey. His story, like many others, exemplifies the difference we can make together. You can also play a vital role in Moka’s ongoing care and well-being by sponsoring him. Your sponsorship helps provide medical care, nutritious food, and an enriching environment he needs to flourish. Together, we can give Moka the life he was always meant to have.

Watch Moka's Incredible Story

Milestones

.

August 2017
Moka, a two-month-old tiger cub, was rescued from smugglers attempting to bring him across the Mexico-US border. The authorities intercepted the smugglers, who were sentenced to nine months in federal prison, and Moka was sent to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park for care.

.

June 2018
The US Fish & Wildlife Service reached out to Lions Tigers & Bears to provide Moka with a permanent home. As a generic tiger, Moka couldn't remain at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, making our sanctuary the ideal place for his continued care.

.

June 2018
The US Fish & Wildlife Service reached out to Lions Tigers & Bears to provide Moka with a permanent home. As a generic tiger, Moka couldn't remain at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, making our sanctuary the ideal place for his continued care.

.

Today
Moka thrives in his safe and enriched habitat at Lions Tigers & Bears. His story, from a smuggled cub to a thriving tiger with a lifelong companion, exemplifies the impact of compassionate care and the sanctuary’s mission to protect and nurture rescued animals.

hello world!

Moka's Gallery

sponsor Moka

Shop Moka Merch

shop here

Meet Our Other Residents

Liberty
Meet Liberty, Our Black Bear Liberty holds a special place in the hearts of Lions Tigers & Bears'"' (LTB), and that's why her habitat is known as "Liberty's Station." She was the very first black bear to find a home at LTB, and her story is a testament to the power of rescue and compassion. […]
Conga
Meet Conga: From Captivity to Compassionate Care Conga the leopard's story at Lions Tigers & Bears is a testament to resilience and the power of compassion in transforming lives. Rescued from the exotic pet trade at just five weeks old, Conga's journey from abandonment to sanctuary life showcases her strength and the dedicated care she […]
Tuffy
Remembering Tuffy, Our African Serval In May 2016 we had to say goodbye to Tuffy the Serval. Tuffy passed away peacefully in his sleep. In September of 2004, at the approximate age of five, Tuffy arrived at Lions Tigers & Bears. He quickly became buddies with Gizmo, our eldest bobcat. Tuffy was the lone serval of […]
1 2 3 25

FAQ's

What do tigers eat?

Tigers are carnivores and primarily eat large prey such as deer, wild boar, and buffalo. They are powerful hunters and can take down animals much larger than themselves.

Where do tigers live?

Tigers are found in diverse habitats across Asia, including dense forests, mangrove swamps, grasslands, and even snowy mountains. Their range includes countries like India, Russia, China, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

How long do tigers live?

In the wild, tigers typically live 10-15 years, while in captivity, with proper care, they can live up to 20-25 years due to medical attention, a steady diet, and protection from threats.

Are tigers social animals?

No, tigers are solitary by nature. They establish large territories and usually only come together for mating or when a mother is raising her cubs. Each tiger marks its territory to keep others away.

How fast can tigers run?

Tigers can reach speeds of up to 35-40 mph (56-64 km/h) in short bursts, usually when ambushing prey. However, they rely more on stealth and power than speed when hunting.

Are tigers endangered?

Yes, tigers are endangered. Habitat destruction, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict have drastically reduced their population. There are fewer than 4,500 tigers left in the wild today.

How many tigers are in captivity?

There are an estimated 5,000–10,000 tigers in captivity worldwide, with more in captivity in the U.S. alone than in the wild. Many are kept in roadside zoos, private ownership, or breeding facilities that exploit them for entertainment and profit. Sanctuaries like Lions Tigers & Bears work to rescue tigers from these situations and provide them with lifelong, ethical care.

Watch More Videos on s

hello world!
The Art of Camouflage in the Tiger's World | Lions Tigers & Bears | San Diego Animal Sanctuary
Threats Facing Tigers Today and Our Efforts to Help | Lions Tigers & Bears
The Tiger Dilemma: How We Can Help | Lions Tigers & Bears | San Diego Animal Sanctuary

Read More Related Articles

24/09/12 | By: Bobbi Brink
The Importance of Volunteers at an Animal Sanctuary: Making a Difference Daily
Ever thought about making a real difference in the lives of animals? Volunteering at an animal sanctuary is one of the most rewarding ways to do just that. It allows you to interact with and care for the animals in need and be a part of something bigger. But if this is your first time […]
Read more
24/12/23 | By: Bobbi Brink
Winter Survival in the Wild: How Big Cats & Bears Adapt
Winter can be brutal, even for some of the strongest animals in the wild. Freezing temperatures, scarce food, and harsh conditions can push them to their limits. Unless an animal is strong enough to endure, survival becomes nearly impossible.  That’s why most animals have evolved incredible ways to adapt to sub-freezing temperatures. Let’s explore how […]
Read more
25/03/07 | By: Bobbi Brink
Protecting the Future: How Kids Can Help Exotic Animals Thrive. LTB Field Trips is Where It Starts.
Exotic animals like tigers, leopards, and bears roam wild in forests and mountains. But not all of them get to live safely in their natural homes. Some lose their habitats to deforestation, while others are taken from the wild and kept as pets or used for entertainment. Many end up in terrible conditions, stuck in […]
Read more
1 2 3 23

Ph: 619.659.8078
Fx: 619.659.8841
[email protected]
24402 Martin Way, Alpine, CA 91901

Donate today
Contact
eCalendar
Privacy Policy
Site Map

Subscribe for our newsletter & get the latest news, exclusive deals, and to hear amazing stories of our rescued animals!

Subscription Form
© Lions Tigers & Bears. All Rights Reserved.
501(c)(3) Federal Tax ID #33-0938499