Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Jacksonville, Florida, is a nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and care of big cats and other exotic animals. Established in 1984, Catty Shack Ranch provides a safe, loving, and permanent home for animals that have been abandoned, neglected, or illegally kept as pets. The sanctuary is best known for its commitment to providing lifelong care for tigers, lions, and other big cats, while also educating the public about the dangers of private ownership of exotic animals and the importance of wildlife conservation.
Visitors to Catty Shack Ranch can experience up-close encounters with these majestic animals through guided tours and special events. The sanctuary also participates in educational outreach programs to raise awareness about the challenges facing big cats in the wild and in captivity. The facility’s primary mission is to “provide a safe, loving, forever home for endangered big cats and to educate the public about their plight in captivity and the wild.”
History and Mission
Catty Shack Ranch was founded by Curt LoGiudice in 1984, initially as a small rescue operation for exotic animals. Over the years, the sanctuary grew in size and scope, eventually becoming a full-fledged wildlife sanctuary with a strong focus on rescuing big cats, particularly tigers and lions. The sanctuary provides a permanent home for animals that have been rescued from various situations, including abuse, abandonment, or illegal ownership.
Catty Shack Ranch does not breed, trade, or sell any animals. Instead, it focuses on providing lifelong care for its residents in an environment that prioritizes their well-being. The sanctuary’s primary goals are to ensure the safety and health of the animals, while also educating the public about the challenges facing big cats in captivity and the wild.
The Residents
Catty Shack Ranch is home to a variety of big cats and other exotic animals, including:
- Tigers: The sanctuary’s largest population consists of Bengal tigers and Siberian tigers. Many of these tigers have been rescued from situations where they were kept as illegal pets or used in entertainment.
- Lions: Several African lions reside at Catty Shack, providing visitors the opportunity to observe and learn about one of the most iconic big cats in the world.
- Leopards: The sanctuary is also home to leopards, which are known for their agility and strength. These elusive big cats are a highlight for many visitors.
- Cougars: Known for their incredible speed and power, cougars (also called mountain lions or pumas) are another key species at the sanctuary.
- Bobcats: Smaller but equally impressive, bobcats are native to North America and can be seen in the sanctuary’s enclosures.
In addition to big cats, Catty Shack Ranch cares for other rescued animals such as coatí mundis, foxes, and raccoons. All animals at the sanctuary are given a permanent home and are never bred or sold.
Visitor Experience
Catty Shack Ranch offers several unique opportunities for the public to experience the animals and learn more about their care and conservation:
1. Day Tours: During the day, visitors can participate in guided tours where they will learn about the animals’ stories, habits, and the care they receive at the sanctuary. The tours provide an educational experience, giving guests insights into the challenges of big cat ownership and the sanctuary’s role in protecting these animals.
2. Night Feedings: One of the most popular events at Catty Shack Ranch is the Night Feeding Tour, where visitors can observe the big cats being fed. This evening experience offers a rare opportunity to see the animals when they are most active, and the sounds of roaring lions and tigers create a memorable atmosphere. During the feeding, the sanctuary’s staff provide commentary, sharing details about each animal and the feeding process.
3. Enrichment Programs: Catty Shack Ranch engages the big cats in regular enrichment activities to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Visitors may have the chance to witness these enrichment sessions, which can include toys, scents, and objects for the animals to interact with, encouraging natural behaviors such as hunting, playing, and problem-solving.
4. Special Events: The sanctuary hosts special events throughout the year, including Roar N’ Snore, a camping experience where guests can spend the night at the sanctuary, hearing the sounds of the big cats in the evening. Other events include holiday-themed tours, where the enclosures are decorated, and special presentations are made for visitors.
Conservation and Education
1. Big Cat Conservation: While Catty Shack Ranch primarily focuses on the rescue and care of animals in captivity, it is also deeply committed to raising awareness about the conservation challenges facing big cats in the wild. The sanctuary educates visitors on the threats posed by habitat loss, poaching, and illegal wildlife trade, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts to protect these magnificent animals in their natural environments.
- Endangered Species: Many of the big cats at Catty Shack Ranch, including tigers, are considered endangered. The sanctuary highlights the global efforts being made to preserve these species and encourages visitors to support conservation initiatives.
2. Educational Programs: Catty Shack Ranch is dedicated to educating the public about the dangers of private ownership of exotic animals and the importance of proper animal care. Through its tours, outreach programs, and special events, the sanctuary aims to teach visitors about responsible wildlife stewardship and the challenges that big cats face in captivity.
- School Visits and Field Trips: The sanctuary welcomes school groups and educational field trips, offering tailored tours and interactive sessions that teach students about wildlife conservation, animal behavior, and the ethical issues surrounding exotic animal ownership.
- Outreach Programs: Catty Shack Ranch also participates in community outreach programs, visiting local schools and events to raise awareness about big cats and the sanctuary’s mission.
Animal Care and Welfare
At Catty Shack Ranch, the animals receive a high standard of care. The sanctuary’s staff work tirelessly to ensure that each resident has access to proper nutrition, medical care, and enrichment activities that promote both mental and physical well-being.
1. Nutrition: The sanctuary provides a balanced and species-appropriate diet for all of its residents. The big cats are fed a mix of meats, including chicken, beef, and venison, to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for a healthy life.
2. Veterinary Care: Regular veterinary check-ups and care are a key part of the sanctuary’s operations. The animals receive routine medical examinations, vaccinations, and treatments for any injuries or illnesses. Catty Shack Ranch also collaborates with local veterinarians and specialists to ensure the health and well-being of its animals.
3. Enclosures: The enclosures at Catty Shack Ranch are designed to be spacious and enriched, allowing the animals to express natural behaviors. The sanctuary continually works to improve and expand its facilities to provide the best possible environment for the animals in its care.
Vicinity of Catty Shack Ranch
About the Area
Catty Shack Ranch is located in Jacksonville, Florida, and plays an important role in the local community. The sanctuary not only provides a safe home for rescued animals but also serves as an educational resource for the community, raising awareness about animal welfare and conservation issues. Catty Shack Ranch is supported entirely by donations, volunteers, and ticket sales from its tours and events, and it relies on the local community to help fulfill its mission.
The sanctuary fosters strong community ties through partnerships with local schools, businesses, and conservation organizations. Volunteers play a crucial role in the sanctuary’s day-to-day operations, assisting with tasks ranging from animal care to event coordination.
Additional Details
- Location: Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is located at 1860 Starratt Road, Jacksonville, FL 32226.
- Hours of Operation: The sanctuary offers guided tours and special events throughout the week. Day tours are typically held on Fridays and Saturdays, while night feedings are scheduled for Saturday evenings. Be sure to check the website for the latest tour schedule.
- Admission: Admission fees vary based on the type of tour. Discounts are available for children, seniors, and military personnel. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.
- Parking: Free parking is available on-site for visitors.
- Accessibility: The sanctuary is wheelchair accessible, with paved walkways and ramps throughout the facility. Assistance can be provided upon request for those with mobility challenges.
- Gift Shop: Catty Shack Ranch has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs, including T-shirts, hats, and other merchandise that helps support the sanctuary’s mission.
For more information visit: https://cattyshack.org
