Sasha's Story

Sasha was rescued in 2021 at just 11 months old from a private owner living in New York. Purchased as a kitten, Sasha spent her first year growing up in an apartment in the Bronx. As she grew, so did her wild instincts. She became too difficult and dangerous for her owner to keep her, so they contacted Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR). To prevent an accidental escape in the city, which could have proven fatal for the young cougar and someone else, TCWR responded quickly to this urgent request. Upon arrival, we gave Sasha a complete medical exam, including vaccinations. Despite muscle atrophy in her back legs, Sasha was in good health. Afterward, we released the young cougar into a spacious grassy habitat – a freedom and thrill she had never experienced inside an apartment. Sasha’s story made international headlines, and many were shocked that anyone kept a wild animal of her size in an apartment within a busy community.

Sasha enjoys her habitat at Rescue Ridge, chattering and cooing with her neighbors and keepers. As she grew into an adult cougar at the Refuge and out of private ownership, her demeanor shifted to a wilder, temperamental personality. Sasha enjoys playing in her pool during the summer and likes enrichment, including her boomer balls, cardboard boxes, and perfumes. Recently, she had a lot to say to herself when she saw her reflection in a mirror her keepers held up for her.