WildLife on Easy Street, is now Big Cat Rescue Sanctuary, and is home for over 200 animals, mainly cats. It was really hard to find so I checked it out on their website www.wildlifeoneasystreet.com. It is situated at the end of a dirt road where there was a huge wire fence and gate. I jumped out and looked to see how to get in. There was a bell to ring and a lady came to greet us. She opened the gate and parking was to the left. From here we walked into a primitive area. There was a tent, table and chairs. This was where we read, that we would adhere to the rules, and paid a $20 donation. Every penny of the donations go to the animals. The staff members are paid through business sponsors. I was told that there were 6 employees and 35 or more volunteers. I just wish I lived closer, so that I could be a volunteer.
We planned on the 3.00 p.m. tour and arrived 15 minutes early. By 5 minutes to 3 it looked as if we would be the only ones. Amazingly in the last few minutes 10 more people arrived. I asked how long the tour was, and was told approximately 1-1 1/2 hours.
We were asked to stay behind the tour guide, but in front of the golf cart. This way no one would get lost. We got to see around 25 big cats. All were in large cages with runs. I had been a little apprehensive that they may be in small areas, so this reassured me.
We got to see beautiful cougars. They are so elegant. I took photographs of them sitting, walking, and just lazing about. Some really cute lynx and bobcats and can you believe that the snow leopards stayed in their air-conditioned units. I was so sad, because I just love them.
The Bengal tigers, mainly came from ‘Ringling Brothers. When their cats get too old to perform they transport them to this establishment. They pay for the construction of their cages, pay for their food, and vet fees. They even send their own veterinarian if necessary. People always tend to tell you bad things about circus people, but this made me feel so good. These tigers swim in the lake and we were told that they have a 3 acre ‘cat-a-tat’ to run in.
The trainer was very knowledgeable and answered all our questions. She asked us if we would keep our distance from a lion that had seizures, also a black leopard that was very nervous. This, of course, we did.
Towards the end of our visit we split into 2 groups and were able to go into a case and pet a cat. We got to play with a bobcat. She was so beautiful and was very well fed. She had quite the tummy on her and such a thick fur coat too. We disinfected our hands before we entered, and upon leaving. She was de-clawed, but had big teeth. We were told if she put her front legs around our feet, to immediately move back. That head could be down and I certainly didn’t want to see how sharp her teeth were. This was a lot of fun, and I hated to leave the cage.
By the time we had completed the tour it was an hour and ten minutes. The rest of the people headed back to their vehicles. I asked if we could look in the gift shop. The lady opened it up for us, and I was able to purchase a key ring, photographs, and postcards. They could make so much more money if this was part of the tour. Disney always makes you go through these shops. I had taken a whole role of film, and the photographs came out great. I got a terrific one of Sylvester, the western cougar, just sitting and gazing at me. Another of a really proud Buffy, the Bengal tiger. It says on the cage ‘I am over 15 years old, that = 90 cat years.
The Day Tours are Monday-Friday at 9.00am and 3.00pm. No reservations required. Saturdays 9.30am, 11.30am, and 1.30pm. They are closed Sundays to worship God and give the animals a day of quiet solitude.
Children under 10 are not allowed on these tours. We stood within 3 feet of these incredible animals, and I certainly wouldn’t trust a small child that close.
They have educational programs.
Expedition Easy Street – Behind the Big Cat Scenes. This includes a tour, free time to roam, behind the scenes activities with a qualified trainer, interaction opportunities. Dinner with the Big Cats Experience, and a night in one of the themed Bed & Breakfast cabins.
Photo tours.
Then they have sponsorship and membership programs.
These range from $25 to $10,000.
There is a night tour, the last Friday of each month, no children under 18 are allowed. For prices times, and reservations please telephone 813-920-4130. fax 813-920-5924.
From their literature.
Florida law requires that all charities, soliciting donations, disclose their registration number and the percentage of your donation that goes to the cause and the amount that goes to the solicitor. Our registration number is SC-11409 and 100% of your donation goes to the animals.
If you become a member or sponsor you also receive a 16 page quarterly magazine. This gives lots of stories about the animals, what’s new, and a chance to purchase products from their shop. You can also purchase from their on-line store. Web-site www.wildlifeoneasystreet.com. Go there if you want their quarterly newsletter, or up-dates on special events.
The address is:
12802 Easy Street,
Tampa,
Fl 33625.
I would suggest anyone interested in finding this place purchase a street map. On this map you can find Citrus Park Mall, on Citrus Park Drive. Immediately opposite is a shopping plaza. Driving south go past the plaza, and you will see a dirt road, just before a McDonalds. You turn in here, and go to the end of this road. It is really difficult to see, so drive slowly. If you get to the Veteran’s expressway, don’t turn here, you will be on a toll road, go to the next road to turn around and come back. You won’t be disappointed.
I just wish it had been longer and I could have seen more animals. Next time I will have to think about the 8-hour photo tour, a mere $400, but wouldn’t that be fun. The second person does go in half price.
Upon checking their website to obtain a photograph I found that they are now Big Cat Rescue at bigcatrescue.com
