Tampa Sanctuary Rehoming

In 2024, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR) reached a historic milestone when we welcomed 33 wild cats from a Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) accredited sanctuary in Tampa, Florida. This remarkable transfer represented years of collaboration, a shared commitment to animal welfare, and a significant step forward in protecting wild cats from exploitation.

For years, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge and the Tampa-based sanctuary collaborated through the Big Cat Sanctuary Alliance, working together on rescues and advocating for stronger protections for captive big cats. The passage of the Big Cat Public Safety Act in December 2022 marked a major victory for that mission, restricting private ownership and ending public cub-petting practices that perpetuated the exotic animal trade.

Following this legislative achievement, the Florida sanctuary made the decision to close its facility and entrust its remaining residents to an accredited sanctuary committed to providing lifelong care.

Building Freedom Field

Welcoming 33 additional wild cats, including six tigers and numerous smaller wild cat species, required a significant expansion of TCWR’s infrastructure.

Through the generous support of our sanctuary partners and dedicated donors, Freedom Field became a reality, adding 14 large habitats for big cats, two medium-sized habitats, 22 small wild cat habitats, and four specialized habitats with heated buildings for species requiring additional environmental support.

Each habitat was designed with animal welfare in mind, providing space for natural behaviors, species-appropriate enrichment, and secure areas where residents can retreat and rest undisturbed.

The expansion not only provided permanent homes for these animals but also strengthened TCWR’s ability to meet the growing demand for accredited sanctuary space.

A Promise That Extends Beyond Rescue

Freedom Field represents more than new habitats. It is a testament to the power of collaboration among accredited sanctuaries and the lasting impact of advocacy.

For the 33 wild cats transferred from Florida, Freedom Field provides stability, specialized veterinary care, proper nutrition, and an environment that prioritizes their physical and psychological well-being.

For Turpentine Creek, it represents an enduring responsibility to every animal entrusted to our care.

The Big Cat Public Safety Act helped change the future for captive big cats. Freedom Field helps us fulfill our promise to those who still need lifelong refuge.

Rescue is only the beginning. With continued support, we can ensure that every animal who finds sanctuary at Turpentine Creek receives the compassionate care and dignity they deserve.

Their refuge is our promise. Your generosity makes it possible.