Spring break! For those who dream of a safari on the Serengeti but really only want to drive less than an hour, the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is the ideal ‘staycation.’ Just in time for this year’s spring break plans, the 15-acre non-profit big cat center in Jacksonville is adding special day and nighttime tours all week.
Another opportunity to connect with these rare, spectacular animals is during the St. Augustine Easter Parade, Sunday, March 27. Nokia, a magnificent 18-year old white tiger, will ride the Catty Shack float. “This is the only parade we do all year. We really like it and the people seem to love to see us there. Nokia does a great job of outreach,” says Jordan Joseph, sanctuary Volunteer Coordinator and business partner.
As Jordan walks around, the tigers greet her with a friendly “chuff.” She doesn’t go in the cage, but stands close to the fence for a safe nuzzle.
“They’re not pets, but you definitely get so you love them like they are,” Jordan says. “They’re familiar with people coming through here, so they come out to say hello. They love the attention.” Visitors are led through the sanctuary and allowed to view the Siberian tigers, lions, cougars, leopards, bobcats, coatamundi and foxes from about two feet away.
The 42 animals now here are rescues; this is their last resort. They’re here thanks to state of federal confiscations from bad or illegal situations or surrendered from private owners.
“It’s not a zoo. These animals are typically bred by private breeders that don’t meet the strict standards for zoos. They were bred for monetary or selfish reasons. Zoos won’t take them at this point. This is their only option,” Jordan says.
Some have lived their entire lives here – arriving as cubs and bottle-fed. For others, it’s more of a hospice situation. Two tigers are currently being treated for cancer by local veterinary specialists. An on-site medical facility handles light surgery, bloodwork, dental care, and x-rays among other services.
Dr. Fred Stuart, a retired dentist, is now the Animal Health Coordinator. He used to do veterinary dental work for the Los Angeles Zoo, so when he retired he was drawn here. “Technically, I’m working harder now than ever. But when it’s a labor of love, you don’t notice the hours. I mean, how many people get to do this? It’s amazing,” Fred says. At the sound of his voice, the lions and tigers rouse from their naps to greet him, too.
The sanctuary exists because of the vision and efforts of Executive Director/Curator Curt LoGiudice. He has more than 30 years’ experience working with exotic animals. The wildlife sanctuary got its nonprofit 501c3 status in 2000 and opened to the public in 2004. The board of directors adopted the policy not to breed, sell or trade the animals.
“Adoptions” are possible, though. Adoptions start at $40 a year and include information and a photo of your favorite wild cat. The center is funded only through donations and admission fees. Just the sheer volume of food necessary to keep these animals going – an astounding total of 650 pounds of meat daily – helps illustrate the need for help. The corporate Partners for Paws program also helps keep these animals thriving. Kudos to Ring Power in St. Augustine and Switzerland Animal Hospital for their sponsorships. Active, committed volunteers are also welcome.
WHEN TO GO:
Spring Break Daytime Tours: March 20, 21, 22, and 24.
Spring Break Night Tours: March 23, 25 and 26.
St. Augustine Easter Parade: March 27 (Meet Nokia!)
Roar N Snore With Lions and Tigers: April 23. Pitch a tent and stay the night near the lions and tigers. Campers get a BBQ dinner, a bonfire, s’mores and breakfast, too. The sanctuary also offers deals for scouts or other groups to experience a wild night with the big cats, too.
Regular Tour Hours: Thursday afternoons and Friday and Saturday nights.
Admission is $10 for adults; $5 for children and $5 extra for feeding tours. Visit them online for details.
1860 Starratt Road, Jacksonville
904-757-3603
