Collection: Beacher

Rescue Story: In 2023, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR) took in 34 cats from Big Cat Rescue, an accredited Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) sanctuary in Tampa, FL. Big Cat Rescue (BCR) was founded in 1992 to safeguard the world's exotic wildcat species through a multifaceted approach with conservation efforts to protect them in captivity and their natural habitats. BCR championed the fight on Capitol Hill, which aided in passing the Big Cat Public Safety Act in December of 2022. With united missions, BCR and TCWR have collaborated in rescuing exotic animals nationally, and both are founding members of the Big Cat Sanctuary Alliance (BCSA). BCR has been a leader in captive wildlife advocacy for over 30 years, and with the new Act passed in Congress, its mission has shifted to focus on conservation efforts in the wild. BCR approached TCWR in 2023 about relocating their remaining animals to the beautiful Ozarks. TCWR broke ground on the new habitat expansion, known as Freedom Field, in 2023, where BCR animals will reside. Beacher is one of the 34 cats relocated from BCR.

Original Rescue Story: Beacher is a first-generation (F1) Savannah Cat. A Savannah Cat is a hybrid species resulting from the intentional breeding of an African Serval and a domestic housecat. Beacher was purchased as a seven-week-old kitten from a breeder in Pasco County, FL, for $15,000. Despite the research his previous owner had found, they felt confident and prepared to bring this exotic hybrid home. Beacher’s previous owner witnessed first-hand the power behind this tiny but mighty animal. To combat the attacks, Beacher was declawed, but this didn’t stop his instincts to hunt, play, or stalk. As things escalated and a few scares of him escaping his owner’s home, Beacher was brought to BCR as a young adult and ready for a life of freedom as a predator.