Discovering the Big Cat Rescue in Tampa: A Haven for Exotic Felines
Introduction:
Big Cat Rescue (BCR), located in Tampa, Florida, is a sanctuary dedicated to providing a forever home for some of the world's most magnificent felines. This unique organization focuses on the rescue, rehabilitation, and lifetime care of big cats that have been subjected to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. With a mission to end the ownership and trade of exotic cats, Big Cat Rescue is a leader in the fight against the exploitation of these majestic creatures. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through the heart of BCR, exploring its history, mission, and the daily life of its feline residents.
History of Big Cat Rescue:
Big Cat Rescue was founded in 1992 by Carole Baskin and her then-husband Don Lewis. The couple was passionate about animals and wanted to create a sanctuary where big cats could live out their lives in peace and comfort. Initially, BCR was established as a for-profit entity called Wildlife on Easy Street, which operated as a bed and breakfast where guests could interact with exotic cats. However, as the couple became increasingly aware of the abuse and neglect suffered by big cats in captivity, they shifted their focus to rescue and advocacy.
In 2003, BCR became a non-profit organization with the sole purpose of providing a safe haven for abused and neglected big cats. Over the years, the sanctuary has grown steadily and now houses over 50 exotic cats, including lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, bobcats, and servals. Each animal has its own unique story of survival, and BCR is committed to ensuring that they never again experience the pain of their past.
Mission and Vision:
Big Cat Rescue's mission is to provide the best possible home for the exotic cats in their care and to educate the public about the plight of these animals in the wild and in captivity. The organization's vision is a world where big cats are protected and respected, and the exploitation of these animals for the pet trade and entertainment industry is brought to an end.
To achieve this vision, BCR focuses on three key areas:
1. Rescue and Rehabilitation: BCR takes in big cats that have been abandoned, abused, or confiscated by authorities. The organization provides the necessary medical care, nutrition, and enrichment to help these animals recover from their traumatic pasts and enjoy a comfortable, safe life.
2. Education and Advocacy: BCR is a leading voice in the fight against the ownership and use of big cats as pets and entertainment. The sanctuary offers guided tours, educational programs, and outreach events to raise awareness about the issues surrounding big cat exploitation and to promote responsible wildlife conservation.
3. Supporting Conservation Efforts: BCR is committed to supporting global efforts to protect big cats in the wild. The organization partners with other conservation organizations and contributes to initiatives aimed at conserving wild habitats and combating the illegal wildlife trade.
The Wildcat Walkabout:
Visiting Big Cat Rescue is a unique and unforgettable experience. The sanctuary offers guided tours, known as the Wildcat Walkabout, that provide a rare opportunity to see these magnificent animals up close and learn about their individual stories. During the tour, guests are led through the sanctuary grounds by a knowledgeable guide who shares the history of each cat and explains the challenges they faced before coming to BCR.
The Wildcat Walkabout is not only an educational experience but also a chance to see these beautiful animals in a natural setting. The sanctuary is set on 67 acres of lush Florida habitat and provides a peaceful home for the big cats. During the tour, visitors can see the felines lounging in their enclosures, playing with enrichment toys, or taking a dip in their pools.
One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to see the tigers. BCR is home to several tiger subspecies, including the critically endangered Sumatran tiger, and visitors can see these majestic creatures in action during feeding time. The sanctuary also has a large multi-acre enclosure called the Vacation Rotation where the cats can enjoy a change of scenery and explore new sights, sounds, and smells.
Education is a big part of the Wildcat Walkabout, and visitors are encouraged to ask questions and learn about the issues facing big cats in the wild and in captivity. The guides are passionate about their work and provide a wealth of information about the cats' behavior, habitat, and conservation.
Volunteering at Big Cat Rescue:
For those looking to get more involved, Big Cat Rescue offers a variety of volunteer opportunities. Volunteers can assist with animal care, maintenance, educational programs, and administrative tasks. The organization also offers internships for students pursuing careers in animal care, conservation, or related fields.
Volunteering at BCR is a rewarding experience that allows individuals to make a positive impact on the lives of these amazing animals. Volunteers are trained on animal behavior, safety, and enrichment and work closely with the staff to provide the highest quality of care for the cats.
Conclusion:
Big Cat Rescue is a unique and inspiring organization that is making a difference in the lives of abused and neglected big cats. The sanctuary provides a safe and loving home for these magnificent animals, while also educating the public about the issues surrounding big cat exploitation and supporting conservation efforts worldwide. A visit to BCR is a must for anyone who loves animals and wants to make a positive impact on the world.
Also visit this exciting attraction in Tampa: Click here.
Please visit the website of our biggest supporter by clicking here: website
Introduction:
Big Cat Rescue (BCR), located in Tampa, Florida, is a sanctuary dedicated to providing a forever home for some of the world's most magnificent felines. This unique organization focuses on the rescue, rehabilitation, and lifetime care of big cats that have been subjected to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. With a mission to end the ownership and trade of exotic cats, Big Cat Rescue is a leader in the fight against the exploitation of these majestic creatures. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through the heart of BCR, exploring its history, mission, and the daily life of its feline residents.
History of Big Cat Rescue:
Big Cat Rescue was founded in 1992 by Carole Baskin and her then-husband Don Lewis. The couple was passionate about animals and wanted to create a sanctuary where big cats could live out their lives in peace and comfort. Initially, BCR was established as a for-profit entity called Wildlife on Easy Street, which operated as a bed and breakfast where guests could interact with exotic cats. However, as the couple became increasingly aware of the abuse and neglect suffered by big cats in captivity, they shifted their focus to rescue and advocacy.
In 2003, BCR became a non-profit organization with the sole purpose of providing a safe haven for abused and neglected big cats. Over the years, the sanctuary has grown steadily and now houses over 50 exotic cats, including lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, bobcats, and servals. Each animal has its own unique story of survival, and BCR is committed to ensuring that they never again experience the pain of their past.
Mission and Vision:
Big Cat Rescue's mission is to provide the best possible home for the exotic cats in their care and to educate the public about the plight of these animals in the wild and in captivity. The organization's vision is a world where big cats are protected and respected, and the exploitation of these animals for the pet trade and entertainment industry is brought to an end.
To achieve this vision, BCR focuses on three key areas:
1. Rescue and Rehabilitation: BCR takes in big cats that have been abandoned, abused, or confiscated by authorities. The organization provides the necessary medical care, nutrition, and enrichment to help these animals recover from their traumatic pasts and enjoy a comfortable, safe life.
2. Education and Advocacy: BCR is a leading voice in the fight against the ownership and use of big cats as pets and entertainment. The sanctuary offers guided tours, educational programs, and outreach events to raise awareness about the issues surrounding big cat exploitation and to promote responsible wildlife conservation.
3. Supporting Conservation Efforts: BCR is committed to supporting global efforts to protect big cats in the wild. The organization partners with other conservation organizations and contributes to initiatives aimed at conserving wild habitats and combating the illegal wildlife trade.
The Wildcat Walkabout:
Visiting Big Cat Rescue is a unique and unforgettable experience. The sanctuary offers guided tours, known as the Wildcat Walkabout, that provide a rare opportunity to see these magnificent animals up close and learn about their individual stories. During the tour, guests are led through the sanctuary grounds by a knowledgeable guide who shares the history of each cat and explains the challenges they faced before coming to BCR.
The Wildcat Walkabout is not only an educational experience but also a chance to see these beautiful animals in a natural setting. The sanctuary is set on 67 acres of lush Florida habitat and provides a peaceful home for the big cats. During the tour, visitors can see the felines lounging in their enclosures, playing with enrichment toys, or taking a dip in their pools.
One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to see the tigers. BCR is home to several tiger subspecies, including the critically endangered Sumatran tiger, and visitors can see these majestic creatures in action during feeding time. The sanctuary also has a large multi-acre enclosure called the Vacation Rotation where the cats can enjoy a change of scenery and explore new sights, sounds, and smells.
Education is a big part of the Wildcat Walkabout, and visitors are encouraged to ask questions and learn about the issues facing big cats in the wild and in captivity. The guides are passionate about their work and provide a wealth of information about the cats' behavior, habitat, and conservation.
Volunteering at Big Cat Rescue:
For those looking to get more involved, Big Cat Rescue offers a variety of volunteer opportunities. Volunteers can assist with animal care, maintenance, educational programs, and administrative tasks. The organization also offers internships for students pursuing careers in animal care, conservation, or related fields.
Volunteering at BCR is a rewarding experience that allows individuals to make a positive impact on the lives of these amazing animals. Volunteers are trained on animal behavior, safety, and enrichment and work closely with the staff to provide the highest quality of care for the cats.
Conclusion:
Big Cat Rescue is a unique and inspiring organization that is making a difference in the lives of abused and neglected big cats. The sanctuary provides a safe and loving home for these magnificent animals, while also educating the public about the issues surrounding big cat exploitation and supporting conservation efforts worldwide. A visit to BCR is a must for anyone who loves animals and wants to make a positive impact on the world.
Also visit this exciting attraction in Tampa: Click here.
Please visit the website of our biggest supporter by clicking here: website