Dorothy’s chant "lions, tigers and bears, oh my" can certainly be applied to the trio living at Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary in Locust Grove, Georgia. However, you will be "oh my-ing" with less concern and more heartfelt emotions because this might very well be the cutest animal friendship you will ever see.
The ‘BLT’ is not considered a sandwich at the non-profit animal sanctuary; it is the name of a rare trio comprising of Baloo the American Black Bear, Leo the African Lion, and Shere Khan the Bengal Tiger: they live together and are the best of friends.
In 2001, the then-month-old cubs were found in terrible conditions during a drug raid at an Atlanta home. They were brought to Noah’s Ark to be treated and have lived there together in harmony ever since.
Warmhearted Wildlife Trios
Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary Owns a Lion, Tiger and Bear Who are Friends
Trend Themes
1. Cross-species Friendships - Animal sanctuaries and pet industries have an opportunity to promote cross-species friendships as a way to encourage animal adoptions and pet ownership.
2. Unlikely Animal Companionship - The trend of unlikely animal companionship has disrupted traditional understanding of predator-prey relationships and shifted the focus to the emotional intelligence of animals.
3. Non-profit Animal Sanctuaries - Non-profit animal sanctuaries have the opportunity to create unique and heart-warming experiences for visitors by promoting the stories of unlikely animal friendships.
Industry Implications
1. Animal Sanctuaries - Animal sanctuaries have the opportunity to promote their mission through social media by sharing heartwarming stories of unlikely animal friendships.
2. Pet Industry - The pet industry has the opportunity to promote cross-species friendships by showcasing the benefits of multi-species households and encouraging the adoption of multiple pets.
3. Conservation Industry - The conservation industry has the opportunity to educate the public on the importance of protecting natural habitats and encouraging behaviors that promote unlikely animal companionship.