Gladio, a rare white Bengal tiger who suffered years of mistreatment and malnutrition for years has now become a new star at Rome’s Bioparco Zoo.
The tiger, thought to be about 8 years old, was rescued from a filthy cage by Italian forestry agency police after complaints from animal rights activists. The white tiger is a rare genetic mutation, with blue eyes as well as white fur with black streaks,
After months of medical and psychological treatment, he’s now been released into a 400 square meter enclosure at the zoo, mimicking a natural environment with dirt, vegetation and ponds. The Zoo’s president says “It’s the first time he has ever touched the ground…he was living in a small cage, walking only on cement.”
He also pointed out that the zoo is home to several other animals rescued from mistreatment or abandonment.
