Big Cat Rescue, Animal sanctuary in Tampa, United States
Big Cat Rescue is a nonprofit animal welfare organization in Tampa, Florida, specializing in the protection of big cat species. The facility covers an expansive site with enclosures, administrative buildings, and areas formerly used for educational programs.
Carole Baskin founded the project in 1992 as a small refuge for animals rescued from private ownership or circuses. Over the decades, the facility grew into a well-known hub for species protection and campaigned for stricter laws on wildcat ownership.
The name comes from the center's mission to save big cat species from abuse in private ownership and give them a life in more appropriate surroundings. The facility no longer runs on-site tours today, but continues to emphasize educating the public about the needs of these animals.
The Tampa site is no longer open to visitors since the animals were relocated to a partner facility in Arkansas. Those interested in the work can still access information through the organization's website and find content about wildcat conservation there.
The organization relocated all its animals to a facility in Arkansas in late 2021 to focus entirely on international protection projects. This ended the era of direct animal care in Florida, while campaign work and education continue through digital channels.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
