Meet
Falcor

Falcor, a white tiger born in 2012, was rescued as part of a major federal action against Jeff and Lauren Lowe, former operators of a private zoo in Oklahoma and figures featured in the Netflix series Tiger King.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture orchestrated the action, which led to the seizure of 68 big cats from the facility. At the time, the DOJ stated that the couple had failed to provide “basic veterinary care, appropriate food, and safe living conditions for the animals.” The Lowes have been permanently banned from exhibiting wild animals.

In May 2021, Falcor, along with another tiger named Herman, arrived at PAWS’ ARK 2000 sanctuary, where they found a safe home.

Falcor is curious and outgoing, always eager to observe any activity around him. Often seen with his nose right up to the fence, he keeps a close watch on caregivers as they work nearby, greeting them with friendly “chuffs.” When it’s mealtime Falcor shows his wild side, so caregivers always give him plenty of space to enjoy his food. Naps remain one of his favorite pastimes.

As a white tiger, Falcor’s unique coloring is the result of inbreeding. The double recessive gene responsible for his white fur can only be inherited when closely related tigers are bred. Unfortunately, inbreeding is associated with significant health issues for the animals. White tigers are typically found in exploitative settings such as roadside zoos, circuses, and magic shows.

White tigers like Falcor have no conservation value, despite misleading claims by exhibitors. Instead, their breeding hinders genuine efforts to protect the estimated 5,000 tigers remaining in the wild.

We are proud to provide Falcor with the lifetime care and respect he deserves.