Collection: Ginger

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, Freedom Field, in 2023, where BCR animals will reside. Ginger is one of the 34 cats relocated from BCR.

Original Rescue Story: BCR rescued Ginger, a four-year-old African Serval, from a private owner in Kansas in 2013. Bottle-raised as a kitten, Ginger was kept in a 9’x12’ cage. At her previous home, Ginger’s cage was located by two cougars and another serval, who unfortunately passed before the rescue. Ginger was humanely netted during the rescue, and a routine veterinary exam was performed in collaboration with Kansas City Zoo’s onsite veterinarian. Ginger adjusted to her new home at BCR beautifully, and TCWR is honored to continue caring for her as she ages.