Rugby star Lewis Moody does his bit for conservation

Jun 10 2008 By Dale Williams

RUGBY star Lewis Moody picked up an instant addition to his growing family with a zoo tiger.

The England international, a new dad himself, was handed an adoption pack for Sumatran tiger Raika when he dropped into Dudley Zoo to take part in an arachnophobia workshop.

Other celebrities who have adopted some of the zoo’s animals include singer Katherine Jenkins, Smethwick-born actress Julie Walters and former CBI chief Sir Digby Jones.

Now the attraction hopes scores of other dads will be handed adoption packs as Father’s Day gifts this weekend.

Zoo spokeswoman Julia Lockett said: “We put together an adoption package to celebrate Father’s Day and thought Raika would be a most suitable animal.

“She’s a very special tiger as Sumatrans are increasingly more threatened in the wild and we have a very successful conservation programme with this species.

“When Lewis took part in the arachnophobia workshop we knew he had just become a dad so gave him a Father’s Day adoption package to celebrate the occasion.

“It’s really appropriate for him as he plays for Leicester Tigers.”

Moody said: “It was a complete surprise and much appreciated.

“I hope to come back to see Raika with my family when we’ve adjusted to our new arrival.”

The £30 Father’s Day package includes a 12-month adoption pack for Raika, two complimentary tickets to the zoo, a Father’s Day card and cuddly tiger toy.

More information is available at dudleyzoo.org.uk or by calling 01384 215 313.