Support Their Sanctuary.

LEILA
Pickup currently not available
Have questions? We’re here to help — just click “Contact”
No physical product — your gift supports rescued animals directly
Every contribution is appreciated — thank you for helping us care
Details
Date of Birth: 5 March 2021
Arrived at ISINDILE: 6 September 2024
White Bengal tiger – female
Leila and Sarabi are sisters who were kept as pets on a property in Gauteng. They were surrendered to ISINDILE after their previous “owner” became concerned about the safety of his staff.
When we first met Leila and Sarabi (on the morning we transported them to the sanctuary), they were very friendly toward us, coming up to the fence to greet and chuff at us. They had lived their entire lives there, so moving them to ISINDILE was very traumatic for them. Upon arrival at the sanctuary, they were not in the best mood! Leila was slightly more relaxed than Sarabi but still bolted straight out of her travel crate and into the furthest corner of the management camp of their enclosure when we released her. The friendly, chuffing Leila had changed into an angry, aggressive young tiger snarling and growling at us.
We gently affirmed and encouraged them and gave them all the space and privacy they needed, as we realised their reaction was out of fear and uncertainty due to all the changes. They had grown up in a residential area, surrounded by the sounds of humans. Suddenly, they were in nature, and all the new sounds, smells, and sights appeared daunting. Leila and Sarabi had to learn to be tigers and not pets.
Today, Leila is a relaxed, friendly, and confident young tiger who enjoys watching and communicating with her neighbours, Asmir and Sahara. She also enjoys walking with us during our morning enclosure inspection.
Virtual Adoption of Leila
Support Leila through a virtual adoption and help fund her lifelong care at Isindile Sanctuary. Your contribution directly supports supplements, veterinary care, and habitat maintenance for this rescued white Bengal tiger.
Adoption Options:
-
R250 one-time gift
-
R1000 one-time gift
-
R1800 one-time gift
This is a virtual adoption — no physical contact or visits. As an adopter, you will receive:
-
A personalized adoption certificate featuring Leila’s photo and rescue story
-
Recognition on our official Facebook page as part of our sanctuary family
Join us in giving Leila a future of peace and protection.
How Your Support Helps
Your contribution directly funds essential care and sanctuary operations. Whether through a general donation or symbolic adoption, your support provides food, veterinary treatment, secure habitats, and ongoing conservation efforts that ensure rescued big cats live safely and with dignity.
Tax & Registration Info
Isindile Sanctuary is a registered Non-Profit Company (NPC 2022/455973/08) and Public Benefit Organization (PBO 93000077284) in South Africa. All funds are used exclusively for animal welfare and sanctuary maintenance. Tax-deductibility applies for South African donors; international donors should consult local regulations. Donation receipts are available upon request.
About Isindile Sanctuary
Isindile Sanctuary is a remote, ethically managed refuge dedicated to lifelong care for rescued big cats. We operate with a strict policy of no breeding, no trading, and no direct interaction. Our mission is to offer true sanctuary — peace, protection, and dignity — for animals who have survived exploitation.
