Collection: Smalls
Species: Bobcat (Lynx rufus)
DOB: April 1, 2013
Sex: Female
Arrival Date: December 13, 2023
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. Smalls is one of the 34 cats relocated from BCR.
Original Rescue Story: Smalls arrived at BCR in October 2016 from Spirit of the Hills Wildlife Sanctuary in northern Black Hills, South Dakota. What started with a routine USDA inspection resulted in the sanctuary’s license being revoked, forcing them to surrender their animals. It was reported that issues were found affecting the animals, significant enough to issue for their removal. BCR took in Smalls, who arrived with three other bobcats and two cougars. Shortly after her arrival, she received a complete veterinary exam, including preventative vaccinations, and was microchipped and spayed.
Original Rescue Story: Smalls arrived at BCR in October 2016 from Spirit of the Hills Wildlife Sanctuary in northern Black Hills, South Dakota. What started with a routine USDA inspection resulted in the sanctuary’s license being revoked, forcing them to surrender their animals. It was reported that issues were found affecting the animals, significant enough to issue for their removal. BCR took in Smalls, who arrived with three other bobcats and two cougars. Shortly after her arrival, she received a complete veterinary exam, including preventative vaccinations, and was microchipped and spayed.
