Tigers move house because of the economic crisis

Phevos moved to the United States to get a better life.

Tigers move house because of the economic crisis


Phevos, a tiger who became one of the victims of the economic crisis in Greece, this week he moved to the United States to get a better life.

Tiger weighing 260 pounds was rescued from a small zoo in Trikala, Central Greece, which is no longer able to take care of exotic animals owned after state budget cuts that have an impact on every aspect of life in Greece.

Phevos, which means god of the sun, is a descendant of Bengal and Siberian tigers and a tiger belonging to the Greek government.

The new home for Phevos is Sanctuary Park Lion, Tigers and Bears in Alpine, California.
There he will be united with other tigers and will get vet care for hip problems that make pain when walking.

Officers in Trikala said they mixed feelings over the loss of Phevos.
"I do not know whether we should be happy or sad. We are pleased that Phevos go to a better place where he could live in peace in a better condition," said Raptis Odisseas that manage e-Trikala, part of the municipality government in charge of the garden animals.
"But on the other hand, we feel sad because we used to have a few tigers here in Trikala. Honestly, overall we feel sad," said Raptis.
sleepy Phevos

Phevos anesthetized before being put into crates to be flown to its new home.
Raptis also recognizes that the animals in the zoo was supposed to be better maintained.
"It's been many years we did not have money and we do not have enough knowledge about how to care for exotic animals. Of course we are not happy animals suffer here, we always want the best for them. That's why we sent him to the US , "he said.