A lion, tiger, and bear squad, often called the BLT (Bear, Lion, Tiger), share a remarkable friendship forged from a difficult beginning.
A Rough Beginning
In 2001, three little cubs named Leo, Shere Khan, and Baloo were found in bad condition in an Atlanta basement after police raided a drug dealer’s house.
They were in poor condition: Leo, the lion, had a severe cut on his face. Shere Khan, the tiger, was too thin. And Baloo, the black bear, suffered from a too-tight harness.
Better Place Called Home
They were taken to Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary in Locust Grove, Georgia, a safe haven where they were given plenty of care.
The sanctuary provided them with a three-acre habitat for living and playing, allowing them to move past their difficult beginnings.
Bonded for Life
“Before they reach sexual maturity, a lot of times, animals will form unique bonds with members of other species. What was surprising is how they kept that bond, that family unit well into adulthood.” says Allison Hedgecoth, the sanctuary’s curator, to BBC.
These three stayed best friends even as they grew up.
For 15 years, they comforted, played, and looked after one another like a family.
Close as Can Be
As they got bigger, everyone could see their different personalities.
Shere Khan was the sweet one, Baloo liked to take it easy and joke around, and Leo was a bit shy but always kept a watchful eye on his friends.
They shared everything — their home, their fun, and their quiet moments, almost always staying close to each other.
Hard Goodbyes
Life has its tough times, and the sanctuary had to say goodbye to two members of the trio.
Leo died in 2016 and Shere Khan in 2018.
They were buried near their home, where Baloo still lives, keeping their memory alive.
Baloo’s Continuing Story
Today, Baloo lives with the happy memories of his friends, and the people at the sanctuary give him all the love and company he needs.
This story of the BLT reminds us that family isn’t just about who you’re related to — it’s about the friendships you make.
Their tale is a beautiful example that no matter how hard things start, with a little help and the kindness of friends, life can get brighter.
