Big Cat Habitat Remains Open, Confusion with Big Cat Rescue Closing

April 19, 2023 – Sarasota

The nonprofit Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary of Sarasota, whose mission is to provide lifelong homes to exotic and other animals that traditional shelters will not take, has been the victim of mistaken identity.

People are confusing Big Cat Habitat with Big Cat Rescue in the Tampa area, which recently announced it is closing, said Kay Rosaire, founder of Big Cat Habitat, which has no affiliation with Big Cat Rescue.

“People think we are closing, and we need to let them know we are here to stay. Our commitment since 1987 has been to provide a home to our animals for the rest of their lives, and we plan to continue honoring that commitment,” Rosaire said. “The land will never be of more value to us than the animals. Every animal here has a name, gets our love and attention, and receives the best physical care and enrichment we can provide.”

Big Cat Habitat is home to more than 300 animals including 62 different species, more than 50 big cats, and a dozen bears. It recently expanded onto 10 acres of adjacent land, which now houses a conservation center, she said.

All admissions to Big Cat Habitat support its mission to provide a safe, loving and permanent home for exotic and domestic animals in need. Big Cat Habitat also aims to educate guests about the importance of species preservation to ensure the survival of these magnificent animals for future generations and to keep alive the human-animal connection. More information is available at www.BigCatHabitat.org, by calling 941-371-6377, or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BigCatHabitat.