With the big cats
South of Tampa the Big Cat Habitat and Sanctuary is a center rescuing exotic animals. “Big cats” primarily and others like bears, monkeys and birds are resting there. It’s a bit surprising when arriving there to see the petting zoo with the goats and the shows being done. I was very skeptical until hearing more and seeing the show with the cats. The park has been founded 30 years ago by Kay Rosaire. She started rescuing big cats back in 1987 with the aim of giving them a permanent home. The exotic animals rescued are almost all from [stupid] people who bought them and realised they’re not pets. The owner son, Clayton Rosaire is taking care of the cats. During the show he does he insists on being careful with the charities we donate to and on adopting in shelters. Then he get 3 big cats in for a demonstration. I’m skeptical thinking “he can’t be an advocate for animal welfare and do a show like that”. But here comes the liger (dad lion, mom tiger), walking in like my cat going to bed. Then the white tiger, looking like he just woke up. Then the Lion, scratching is head on the cage while he slowly gets in. The big cats really behave like cats. Clayton is not forcing them to do anything. He asks them and rewards them if they do. A couple of lazy jumps for the tiger, a kiss from the lion and that’s all. They yawn, clean themselves… And just look like happy lazy cats! A fun thing to watch. There were also a young chimp, rescued dogs and cockatoos.
After our time there we went to Charlotte Harbor preserve park for a walk. It’s late in the afternoon and the birds are getting out, as well as armadillos and rabbits.
