Dryden's Story

Dryden and his sibling, Kewlona, were rescued by an accredited sanctuary in Florida 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 them revoking the sanctuary’s license, forcing them to surrender their animals. There were concerns regarding the animals’ conditions, significant enough to issue for their removal. The Florida facility took in Dryden, who arrived with three other bobcats (including Kewlona) and two cougars. Shortly after his arrival, he received a complete veterinary exam, including preventative vaccinations, and was microchipped and neutered.

In early 2023, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR) agreed to take 33 wild cats from the Florida sanctuary accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS). Dryden and Kewlona were among these cats who had found their forever home at the Refuge. Dryden and Kewlona are very shy and reserved. Dryden is an expert at hiding in the grass and among the various objects in his habitat. While it is excellent that the bobcat can demonstrate his ability to hide among his surroundings, sometimes it can make it difficult for the Animal Care Team to find him for daily check-ins. When visible, he is usually perched up on his wood bench or platform, snuggled up next to Kewlona.