Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August 1999
Toba Champagne, daughter of Darrin & Jenny Champagne LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. 2 Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 w96 Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc.
This Newsletter is published bimonthly by the LIOC made without the written permission ofthe original copyright Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. We are a owners and/or copyright owner LIOC. Since the Newsletter nonprofit (Federal I D. 59-2048618) noncommercial consists primarily of articles, studies. photographs and organization with international membership, devoted to the artwork contributed by our members, we encourage all welfare of exotic felines. The purpose of this newsletter is to members to submit material whenever possible. Articles present information about exotic feline conservation, concerning exotic felines are preferred and gadly accepted. management and ownership to our memDers. The material Articles involving other related subjects will also he printed in this newsletter is contributed by our members and considered. Letters and responses to articles may be included reflects the point of view of the author but does not in the Readers Write column. Deadline for the next issue is necessarily represent the point of view of the organization. the 1st of even-numbered months. Please submit ail material LIOC ESCF, Inc.'s Statement of Intent is contained in our to the Editor. Persons interested in joining LIOC should bylaws, a copy of which can be requested from the Secretary. contact the Term Director in charge of Member Services. Reproduction of the material in this newsletter may not be
Founder: Catherine Cisin Member Services: Kelly Jean Buckley Midwest Exotic Prime Fiducational PO Box 22085 Society: Bob Tunitr Editor: Marge Maxwell Phoenix, AZ 85028 1345 Dayhuff Rd PO Box 101 602-996-5935 Mooresville, IN 46158 Bowling Green, KY 42102 Email: [email protected] 317-831-0817 270-S46-1991, Fax 270-846- 1177 Email LNUSIMF.QZ^n@-one*.com Email- lion[email protected] LIFE DIRECTORS: Pacific 'Sorthwcst Exotics: OFFICERS: J. B. Anderson Steve Bdknap President: Barbara Wilton 1825 E. Nashvillle Church Rd. PO Box 205 7800 SE Luther Rd. Ashland, MO 65010 Gresham, OR 97030 Portland, OR 97206 573-657-4088 503-658-7376 503-774- 1657 John Per-y Vice President: George Stowers 0084 Central be NE REGIONAL CONTACTS: - PO Box 80 Fridley, MN 55432 Canada: Scarktt Bd6u@nm Lycoming, NY 13093-0080 612-571-7918 PO Box 722 3 15-342-4997 Email: johntpeq @uswest.net Niverville, Mani;.;ba. ROA LEG. Canada. Email: [email protected] 204-388-4845 home and fax Carin C. Sousa Secretary1 Treasurer: Tonya Jones 2960 Bay St. Central: J. B. Andersen PO Box 124 Gulf Breeze, FL 32561 1825 E. Nashville Church Rd Cromwell, KY 42333 850-932-6383 Ashland. MO 65010 . 270-274-3072 Email: [email protected] 573-348-5092 Email: [email protected] Shirley Wagner Northeast: George Stowers TERM DIRECTORS: 3730 Belle Isle Ln PO Box SO Advertising & Publicity: Jana L(ondr6 Mobile, AL 36610 Lycoming, NY 1-((W-W; Phonelfax 334-661- 1342 3 15-342-4W7 83 1 Parkside Cr N fcrnail' ocelots@compu~ervecorn Email' ~stc~v
Damn & Jenny Champagne Monica Cooper Karin Donoyan Tonya Jones Lisa Padula & Paul Richardson 50150 COTTON - FRUIT OF THE LOOM George Stowers COLOR NATURAL Bob Turner SIZES: MEDIUM, LARGE. XLARGE, XXLARGE Shirley Wagner $15.00 EACH (Includes Shipping & Handling) Nancy Ward Please make checks payable to: UOC ESCF, Inc. Barbara Wilton PO Box 22085 for contributions to this newsletter. This is YOUR newsletter. ALL contributions- new or old, long or short, technical or humorous, personal story, article or advertisement-are welcome and needed. All ads in this publication are void I'll be happy to assist with writing and/ law. All transactions are between buyer and seller. All Ill buyers and sellers must have proper licenses and permits or editing. Calls, emails, or faxes are Ill for all animals offered for saie or sold. LIOC-E~CFInc. 111 does not necessarily endorse or guarnatee the honesty of welcome. any advertiser. L10C-ESCF Inc reserves the right to edit or reject any subscription or ad. No blind animal ads will be accepted. Only L10C members may place ads listing Marge Maxwell. Editor cats for sale. Adoption ads are tree of charge for cats that need good homes and no money is involved in the transaction. All ads must contain the name of business or Visit our Web Sioz! individual. Ads must state whether the individual is a private owner or broker. Full current address with a phone http: / /www.lioc.org number mist be stated in the ad. Informational contributions may be sent Ill Ad Rates lor submitted photo ready ads: Ill to George Stowers, Vice President, Email: i column inch "Classified"
[email protected] Please send 1 /2 page computer readable text files (email is fine Full Page $100.00 or ASCII text files on disc.) Back Page $125.00 LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. 4 Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 More Norman Antics
Letter to the Editor:
June 29, 1999
Dear Marge,
Thank you for publishing Norman's story. It made me feel a lot better to know that other big cats might benefit from what happened to him and that people might learn from my mistake and push their vets harder to investigate all of their animal's symptoms (not just the Nancy and Kebby, her newest baby outwardly obvious ones) instead of blindly trusting them to do what's right, like what reminded me of something Norm once did happened in Norm's case. I was also very that really made me laugh, and in the end, pleased that you decided to do a follow helped me to get over myself and put up article on Feline Diabetes. I have things into their proper perspective. I received several calls and cards from think you'll get a kick out of this little people who knew Norrnie or about him story, however, you've got to have a bit of and did not know he had died. Those a warped sense of humor and thoughtful gestures were greatly appreciation for the intelligence and appreciated. intuition of a cat to appreciate it. You Things are a lot different around here can publish it if you wish. these days. I still think about and miss Nodewas a real smart deck at times him every day, but now I have three and he liked to play "jokes" on people. I mischievous young ladies (lions)to occupy really believe he knew what he was doing. my time and they keep me so busy, I don't For example, on more than one occasion have time to dwell on what can't be he sneaked up on my ex-husband in front changed. After Normie died, I was of company, grabbing him around the seriously considering placing Madison waist with his paws then quick as a flash (the cub I had purchased as a mate for yanked his pants down to his bare butt. him) in another home because I didn't As my ex cursed, Norm would throw think I could bare to get close to another himself on the ground like a big clown, animal again. I felt it was unfair to her to flailing his legs as if he was spazing out keep her as I didn't go out in the yard (in a seemingly mocking manner) clearly because that was where Norrnie is buried showing off as we all laughed. He did a and every time I walked past his grave it lot of extremely ironic things and seemed just ate away at me ... My pain, anger, to enjoy making people laugh, but the frustration and guilt were totally following is one of my favorite Norrnie consuming me. stories and the memory that convinced But then one day I got a letter in the me to keep Madison, and keep on doing mail from an insurance broker and it what I've loved to do all my life-caring for LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 5 and being around animals. my place was "lovely," that all of my About a year before Norm's death, I animals "seemed friendly enough," and called an insurance agent over to look at she "could appreciate the expense I went my property. I was hoping she would give through," building me up with every word me a break in my liability premiums of encouragement; she got in a sucker because I had added to the security of punch, by coldly and matter of factly the property and built new enclosures as adding "however" my premium reduction close to the safety standards of accredited would not be approved in spite of my zoos as I could afford. efforts because even though I was not To make a good impression, I put Norm open to the general public, these were still out in his yard, because I didn't want her "very dangerous animals. " to know I allowed him to live in my home. My heart immediately sank as I had When she came in, I couldn't help but had a hard time in locating an insurance notice she was very well dressed, prissed company I could afford who would cover up to perfection. I commented to her that my liability because of the animals and I could tell she didn't have any cats was already paying thousands of dollars because the moment I try to get dressed a year even though I had never had an to go somewhere, it's like I'm begging to incident. I could feel my blood pressuring have someone jump up or rub up against rising by the second at the thought of me and cover me in fur. She smiled like having to pay out even more money, but it was causing her pain, and I could tell there was nothing I could do about it, if I she was thinking 'how gross.' I wanted to continue to keep my cats, immediately got the impression "Ms. monkeys, and wolf. I had no choice but Priss" was not an animal lover and, to bite my tongue, but every four, five, therefore, my chance of getting this and six letter word that could be used to reduction was prob- articulate what I ably going to be nil thought of this woman because of it, but I was running through showed her around my mind. anyway and eventually After sweetly delivering we got to Norm's yard. that blow to me, Cruela, She hesitantly er, I mean "Ms. Priss," walked up to his en- turned back around closure, and I swear I and bent over to saw flashing dollar Norman to tell him signs where her pupils again how beautiful she used to be, as she told thought he was using him how "beautiful" he that same shamlessly was, projecting a tone overly patronizing voice. in her voice that almost I'm saying, this woman sounded sinister. I was so insidious, I bet reminded her of all the the only reason she safety features I had dyed her hair "ash added, as she sized blonde," was so her him up, and continued Nancy and Madison horns would blend in. to discuss my hopes of Now, I always believed a premium reduction. At the end of this Norrnie and I had a little telepathy thing conversation, after tellingme she thought happening between us, because he LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. 6 Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 somehow always knew how to read my consume me and that I needed to get close moods and also seemed to know if I liked to Madison and appreciate the time I had or didn't like someone. For whatever with her. As she too came into my life for reason, I'd like to think he was scoring a reason, she is full of love, and deserving one for Mom. of love in return. I realized my time with As she bent over directly in front of Norman (no matter how brief) was a very him billing and cooing her insincere special blessing from God that I don't sentiments, Norman stood up, yawned, know what I ever did to deserve something then sniffed at her perfection through the so incredible anyway. And I needed to be fence. After grimacing like he just got a grateful I had it at all. strong whiff of rotten meat, turned around I now share my home with three and with the precision of a champion lionesses: Madison, of course, who is now marksman, he deliberately sprayed her 2 1/2 years old, and Halle, who joined us with a huge gush of funky lion urine last fall and is now 9 months old and directly in her chest cascading over her Kebby who joined us early this spring and lovely suit, splattering into her face and is 4 1/2 months old. The bond I share hair. To say that boy let it fly something with them is not like what I had with ugly, would be an understatement. Mark Normie, but they each have qualities of McGuire himself couldn't have topped the their own that make them lovable just the power behind the smack of that pee. And same. And when it's time for them to pass anybody who has kept a male lion knows on, as we all must one day, I'll be thankful what I'm talking about. You'd swear it I was able to be a part of their lives as no was jet action propelled. other living creature truly ever belongs to Now don't get me wrong, I did try to anybody, but rather we are granted the warn her what he was about to do, but as honor and privilege of sharing their I tried, I must've went into some kind of friendship for however long the good Lord trauma induced shell shock over all that sees fit. money I was going to have to shell out Marge, I would like to sincerely thank which resulted in a temporary, but highly you again for your interest and support debilitated, speech impeding articulation in getting the information out in regards disorder. to Feline Diabetes, in memory of Norman. I ran into the house and grabbed her If you could, would it be possible for me a towel apologizing all over the place, to thank Jan Giacinto, Barbara Wilton, offering to dry clean her clothes. Needless Kelly Jean Buckley and all the other very to say, "Ms. Prisswwas totally grossed gracious and helpful members of LIOC out and couldn't leave fast enough. She's that I spoke to for their efforts during his probably still soaking herself in a tub of illness. With a very special thank you to bleach to this day. Lyn Culver, James Godsmark and my After she left, I laughed so hard I very dear friend, Doug Brown, who gave thought I was going to be sick and Mr. up his entire Christmas holiday to try to Super Soaker, er, I mean "Soake?' a.k.a. help Normie and to console me after he Norman, got himself a big hamhock, passed. because as much as those scam artists Enclosed are a few pictures of me and (a.k.a. insurance brokers) were soaking the girls. me for, what he did was almost poetic. Remembering that story reminded me Sincerely, of the laughter I would be missing out on Nancy Ward, Madison, Halle, and Kebby if I allowed my grief to continue to Norman's Pride LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 7 Laws Meant to Protect Animals Can Harm Others
Summarized from USA TODAY Story by Wehausen pointed out that it is only Traci Watson, May 14, 1999 natural for cougars to kill sheep, however, other factors used to control the cougars In efforts to protect California's in the past. Grizzlies, no longer in remaining mountain lions from people California, used to hunt cougars. The with guns, state legislators made bears, which far outweigh cougars, kept mountain lion hunting for trophies illegal smaller predators in check by taking their in 1973. In 1990, voters passed a kills. There also used to be other cougar referendum that banned all killing of the prey such as deer. mountain lions (also called cougars or Last month the US Fish and Wildlife puma.) This action caused the cougar's Service gave emergency protection to the numbers to multiply to levels not seen bighorn sheep to allow federal officials to since the 1880s. The cougars have turned remove cougars posing a threat to the to the Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep as a sheep, either by killing the cougars or food source. The bighorn sheep are also trapping them and placing them endangered with only 100 or so still elsewhere. existing in that area. "Leaving nature alone is no answer Bighorn sheep expert John Wehausen this time. There's no such thing as a of the University of California White natural balance. Things are awry. If we Mountain Research Station, says, "We care about biological diversity, we're going should have been controlling lions and to have to do what it takes," says couldn't," because of the 1990 law. "Now Wehausen. That means intervening and it will be a necessity." watching for ballot measures that might Cougars killed large numbers of the have unintended consequences. sheep in the 1980s. The sheep got smart This cougar-sheep clash exemplifies and began staying in the high elevations the problems that occur when we try to to avoid the cougars, rather than right the balance of nature. Russ Mason, descending to their usual wintering a predator biologist with the Agriculture grounds at summer's end. Without the Department's National Wildlife Research better browsing and milder weather of the Center says, "I do think these discussion lower elevations, newborn lambs died. should be infused with a little science now Scientists soon realized the effect that and again. What if we made nuclear policy flight to the high country had on the this way?" sheep.
ANIMAL FINDERS' GUIDE 18 issues per year for only $25.00 Single issue price $2.00 Mainely Felids Informative articles on exotic animal husbandry Wild Feline Husbandry Manual Exotic animals, products, & services. ?A/ ~uctio&and shows. \ *,./ Comprehensive introduction to responsible captive PO Box 99 Prairie Creek, IN 47869 husbandry of wild felines for the novice. Information on: 812-898-2678 or fax 812-898-2013 permits, caging, nutrition, handling and much more! 42 Visit our website at www.animalfinderscuide.com pages. Send $1 5 to: Mainely Felids, Dept. D, P.O. Box LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. 8 Volume 43, Issue 4 - Julv/August, 1999 New SecretaryRreasurer: Tonya Jones
Tonya Jones is the new LIOC Secretary/Treasurer to fushthe term of Sharon Roe who was unable to complete the term due to respon- sibilities at home. Tonya was born and reared in Cromwell, KY where she currently resides with her husband, Mike. They don't have any children together "except for their cats." Tonya has two children, Brandon and Amber. Tonya and Mike have eight exotic cats: two caracals, one cougar, two Canadian lynx, and three servals.
Mar@: One of the reasons LIOC actively knowledge of how to safely capture her, sought you other than your love for cats we did see her outside when we came is your accounting background. Tell us home from work but was unable to get about that. her to come to us. We never saw her again 'Ibnya: I've been doing bookkeeping and and our hearts were broken. She had taxes for twenty years. I've been to school brought so much to our lives that we in accounting and still take update decided to get another serval, a male this courses. My father had an income tax time, Dakota. He is now almost three. We business and I worked with him as I was took in a bobcat for a short while and growing up. I still maintain that business placed it in a home that had other today, Haven's Tax Se~ce. bobcats. We got another male serval, Marge: How and when did you get Squeaky, as a playmate for Dakota. We started with exotics? later got Caesar, now a year and one- 'Ibnya: I've always had many domestic half old caracal, and another female cats and loved wild cats. I first wanted an serval, Kalahari, now one year old. We ocelot and went to several libraries to have taken in four other cats lately, a learn more about them. I found it cougar, two Canadian lynx, and a female impossible to get an ocelot and we decided caracal. to get a one-month old female serval, Marge: Tell us about your sanctuary, Sierra, five years ago. When Sierra was Green River Exotics. two years old, she escaped through my 'Ibnya: We formed Green River Exotics son's open bedroom window. With no about a year ago after getting our USDA LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 9 license. Green River Exotics has two purposes. One is to provide refuge and sanctuary to the smaller exotics and the second purpose is to educate the public about these cats. We take the cats to schools, churches, county fairs, and other functions. We give out brochures, exhibit the cats, and talk about their care and responsible ownership of any animals to the public. Mar@: I know it is hard for us to say we favor one cat over another, but tell us about the cat you spend the most time with. Tonya's daughter, Amber, 'hnya: That would have to be Dakota and tiger cub and Kalahari, the two servals, who stay in our house. Although Caesar has a with hugs and kisses and purrs. She special place in our hearts, it has been follows every step I make and even likes necessq lately to keep hirn in an outside to share in morning rituals of blow-drying enclosure and we are a tiny bit partial to hair and putting on make-up. Both servals since we got a serval first. Dakota Dakota and Kalahari still sleep with us. is very special since he replaced Sierra Marge: Tell us of a funny incident you and helped us get over that loss. Dakota have had with one of your cats. has accepted other animals, domestic or ton^. Everyday is funny at our house. exotic, we have brought in the house. He Squewhangs on the cage door at feeding is a laid-back gentleman with his own time. When we give him a chicken leg personality. Kalahari is a special Mama's quarter, he grabs it runs certainly not girl. Everyday she greets me at the door sharing with Caesar, his pen-mate. Marge: Is there anything you have learned through your experience with these exotics that you'd like to recommend or caution others about. Tonya: Be sure to research the species you are contemplating acquiring. Go visit that type of cat and spend time with them. Mike and I had done that about servals before we Caesar at got one, but we were still not prepared the mFES meeting on for escapes. We now have a tranquilizer April 18 gun, a live trap, and we have a certain procedure in case of escapes. We have had Dakota get out of the house and we caught him with a live trap with his food. Be careful of your house or caging. Think of all possibilities and prepare. The cats do change your lifestyle. Be sure you have the commitment and resources (emotional,your physical health, financial LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. 10 Volume 43, Issue 4 - Julv/August, 1999 resources, special food, access to veterinarian, good location, no ordinance Mi5ca.n Lions See or legal problem) for their 20-25 year life span. Remember they are still wild Off Hyenas animals and they will remind you of that. Marge: Tell us how the cats have Sumarized fi-om BBC News, changed your life in a positive way. April 19, 1999 Tonya: They are all special to us. I feel so honored and blessed to share their life daily. I think they have made me a better The lion has again proven itself the king of beasts after a ferocious two-week person. battle in the Ethiopian desert. Reports Marge: How did you get involved in LIOC? from Addis Ababa say a pride of lions killed 35 hyenas and drove off the rest Tonya: I was in a pet store last May a for the loss of six of their own. Ethiopian year ago. I heard about Herald Maxwell with lions. I just had to call him and we television showed sand billowing as a lion wrestled with six hyenas with other lions went to see him, his family, and animals. watching. We became good friends and he told us Police said the rocky area in about LIOC and the first meeting of a new LIOC branch being formed the next southeastern Ethiopia was now firmly under the lions' control. Wildlife experts weekend. We went to the meeting and I said that in any sustained conflict the became Secretary/Treasurer of the Midwest Exotic Feline Educational smaller hyenas were always likely to incur more losses, despite possessing jaws Society. We also attended last year's which could crunch their way through national LIOC convention in Indianapolis. elephant bones. Marge: Is there anythmg else you would like to add? The two sides had been fighting for territory in Gobele desert, close to the Tonya: I feel honored that the LIOC board chose me as Secretq/Treasurer. district of Girawa, 450 km east of Addis I hope that in some small way I am helping Ababa. Prevailing drought conditions probably played a part in igniting the war. the cats while working in this position. Fierce battles raged every night. During the day the animals took cover in their dens, waiting for the sun to set. PersonalNote:Tonya and Mike have been close friends of Max and I for a year. They The world's most successhl predator - man - stayed out of the fight, as the have been most helpful and concerned about our cats and helping in any way combat zone was far from human settlement. they could. I am sure that all of you will find Tonya to be a positive and helpful LIOC officer.
Marge Maxwell, Editor
See page 2 for addresslemail LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 11
There has been a change made in your Board of Directors. Secretary/Treasurer, Sharon Roe, has found if impossible to continue with us in this capacity and also run her Alpaca business. It was a difficult In Remembrmce: decision for her and I do want to thank Gayle Schaecher Sharon for the terrific job she has done It is with the most profound sense on managing our finances. She kept the rest of us in line real well, too! Quarterly of sadness that we repos the passing of reports were always complete and always Gayle Schaecher after a lengthy battle on time. Thanks, Sharon, for a job well with cancer. Our condolences go out to done. her lifetime partner, Clem, and daughter, Patricia, and grandsons. Now please welcome our new secretary/ Gayle joined LIOC in 1972. She treasurer, Tonya Jones, of Cromwell, became an active member at once. Over Kentucky. Tonya was unanimously the years she raised ocelots, bobcats, approved by the board to complete lynx, chaus, and cougars. She was a founding member of the Pacific Northwest Sharon's term. She is an accountant and we are confident she will have no Exotics branch of LIOC. Gayle served as problems. We all look forward to working LIOC's Vice President fi-om 1993through with her. You will get to meet her at the 1994. She was a regular attendee at our convention. So please help us make her Annual Convention as well, and was feel welcome. presented with a Lotty in 1990. She also served on Oregon's Fish & Game Advisory board on regulations regarding exotics. Gayle deeply loved the cats and Barbara Wilton readily shared her knowledge with others. President She had a quiet presence but brooked no nonsense when she felt a wrong had been committed. She readily and unselfishly Two men on a camping trip heard of an volunteered whatever she could to help escaped lion from the nearby zoo coming others and their cats. Convention won't their way. One man stopped to put on his be the same this year without her, but tennis shoes and the other said, "Those aren't going to help you out-run a lion." we know she'll be there in spirit and in As he finished putting on his shoes and the hearts of all who loved her forever. took off, he yelled over his shoulder, "I Respectfully, only have to out-run you." Shirley Wagner LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. 12 Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 What is Your Feline IQ 9.
Whether a large or small exotic cat or the fiuniliar house cat, many traits are the same. How rnany of these do you know?
1. When were cats first domesticated and where? 2. Which four cats really roar? 3. What percent of time do domestic cats spend per day sleeping? Grooming 4. How many Florida panthers still exist in the wild? 5. How were cats introduced in the Americas?
6. How much meat can a lion consume in one sitting? 7. How many domestic cats are in the US? How many dogs? 8. How do domestic cats communicate? 9- Which cat makes the loudest sound? 10. How many bones do cats have? How rnany muscles? 1 1. How long do lions sleep per day? 12. How fast can a frightened cat run? A human? 13. Who can see better at nigh-a cat or rnan? 14. The modem domestic cat is believed to be a cross between which two cats? 15. How far can lions leap?
HOWdid YOU do? Answers on page 2 1.
If you correctly answered:
13 - 15, you earned a Ph.D. in Feline scholarship. 10 - 12, you earned a M.S. in Feline scholarship. 7 - 9, you earned a B.S. in Feline scholarship. 4 - 6, you still need to complete high school. 0 - 3, you apparently own a dog. LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 13 Phantom Cat: Biologists Give Up Summarized from Telegraph Journal June 23, 1999 By DEBORAH NOBES
Phantom cat may lose endangered species listing because nobody can prove it really lives in the province.
A QUIET movement is brewing among New Brunswick biologists to remove the enigmatic Eastern cougar from the province's endangered species list. The giant cat is one of this province's greatest mysteries. Despite more than 600 documented sightings in the region since the mid-1970s, most scientists agree there isn't enough evidence to prove, one way or another, whether the animal lives and breeds in New Brunswick and contend the animal is a figment of the province's collective imagination. Now, several respected biologists are This is the trail in the snow for the first time saying publicly that the followed by Rod Cumberland, a mystery should be officially put to rest. wildlife biologist with the They believe the Eastern cougar should Department of Natural Resources, not be given extra protection under in November of 1992. - Photo By provincial law for the simple reason that Rod Cumberland it does not exist. "You would have thought, in all these endangered species list in 1978, based years, that we would have found a den on the vague criteria that it might face site of cougar kits or seen some evidence "imminent extermination. " The animal of a breeding population," says Gerry was given further protection by the Redmond, a wildlife biologist with the province of New Brunswick in 1996,when Department of Natural Resources and the Liberal government created its own Energy who wants the Eastern cougar off Endangered Species Act forbidding the provincial list. "The cougars that are hunting, habitat disruption or owning being seen - who knows - maybe they're endangered species as pets. just released pets that are able to get Last year, the Eastern cougar's status along. You hate to burst the bubble, but on the national list was changed from at the same time, being realistic, it doesn't "endangered" to "indeterminate" because deserve to be on the list." The Eastern there simply isn't, enough information cougar was named to Canada's about its habits in this region to know LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. 14 Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 whether it lives here. In a report to the very questionable, it puts everything in Committee on the Status of Endangered question on that list. You want that to be Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) - the absolutely solid because that's the stuff national agency that decides which that gets argued about with industry." animals make the list - scientists concluded that the Maritime sightings Seven years ago, a forester with J.D. were likely escaped animals and not a Irving called the Department of Natural breeding population, so the animal could Resources when he saw large paw-like no longer be considered threatened. tracks in the woods near Florenceville. Bruce Johnson is an endangered The pair found feces thought to belong to species biologist who worked with the a cougar. DNA tests revealed cougar hair Canadian Wildlife Service in Sackville in the feces, but nothing to prove where until retiring five years ago. He served as it might have come from. Many scientists one of the Atlantic reps on COSEWIC, and dismissed the scat as proof of the animal's on the provincial committee that existence in New Brunswick because it recommended which species deserved might have come from a bigger predator protection under the 1996 legislation. who ate a cougar. But it was enough for Mr. Johnson says he agreed to keep the province's former Natural Resources the cougar on both lists several years ago, minister Alan Graham to hold a press but now believes it should be removed. conference and proclaim the Eastern 'Looking at it right now, I think it was left cougar as a real-life New Brunswick onjust in the remote possibility that there native. might be some out there, but I really don't If scientists could be divided along the believe that there are. I think there lines of the believers and the doubters, probably have been some cougar Fredericton-based wildlife biologist Rudy sightings, but I don't think those cougars Stocek is a cougar evangelist of the are remnants of Eastern cougar highest order. An instructor at the population. I think they possibly are Maritime Ranger School, Mr. Stocek has escapees - cougars that have been held scoured the woods looking for proof of the in captivity or possibly cougars that have phantom animal and spent decades come across the border, probably documenting sightings and writing papers escapees," he said. "I don't think that they trying to convince the scientific are really a viable population here in New community that cougars live in our midst. Brunswick. I don't think there are any His faith in the animal is absolute, even
survivors." though he's never seen one. Wildlife biologist Mike Sullivan is also 'There are just too many sightings," an endangered species expert who works he says. "I like the mystique of it. It's an with the Department of Natural Resources animal that we don't know enough about and Energy and is the current Atlantic and quite possibly, there is a very rep on COSEWIC. He admits it's likely secretive animal here that we can learn time for a review of the cougar's status more about." on the provincial list but says it may be a But even Mr. Stocek reluctantly agrees contentious process because there is no that the cougar should be taken off the mechanism for de-listing animals provincial endangered species list. provided in the legislation. 'I really couldn't argue against taking "I think we need to take a close look at it off," he says. "Not because we shouldn't it again, because that's a serious list,"he be protecting individual animals, but said. "If there are things on there that are because we just don't know enough about LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 15 the animals that are here to help increase of the cats, but reported seeing them their population." chasing deer and coyote, running or The mystery of the Eastern cougar walking and even sunbathing. (and there are doubts even among Most of the sightings occurred between believers about whether there is such a June and November, at all hours of the breed, or if the animals are actually day and night, in or on river and lake Western cougars who roamed outside shores, beaches, blueberry fields, gravel their territory in search of mates and then pits and on camp grounds. Fewer than took up residence here) began in Nova 20 per cent of the sightings were Scotia during the 1920s with the first discounted because of mistaken identity. reported sighting. Even then, the animals Credible observers described the animals had a mystic reputation. Frightened as powerful and graceful-looking with woodsmen and hunters would impressive muscle tone and sleek occasionally return to their camps with They recounted cat-like face stories of giant cats staring at them from features, with large paws and he trees, or gliding nonchalantly past as they shoulders, estimating weights of well worked in the forest. above 200 pounds. In 1932, a hunter shot an animal The witnesses' stories are intriguing. thought to be a cougar in Kent County, There is the Mountie who pulled his in northeastern New Brunswick. Six years cruiser onto the side of the road to have a later, a large tawny cat with a long e and saw two big cats with long was trapped in Maine, near the Que ng at him for more than five border. In 1946, biologist W. A. Squires minutes before bounding into the black published a study in the Acadian night. There is the mystifying story of the Naturalist that said cougars likely live and man who reported seeing a cougar leap breed in New Brunswick, though in very across the road in front of his car near small numbers. Various other naturalist Canadian Forces Base Gagetown while publications through the 1950s and driving on Highway 7 between Fredericton 1960s have come to ambiguous and Saint John. He jammed on his conclusions on the subject, saying there brakes, reached for his camera, chased might be a cougar population in Eastern the animal into the woods and snapped a Canada or there might not, based on photograph. When he took the film to be sporadic sightings in New Brunswick, processed, the frames came back blank. Nova Scotia and Cape Breton Island. Mr. Redmond agrees the sightings are In 1977, biologists in the Atlantic office remarkable, but reasons they could be of the Canadian Wildlife Service officially attributed to either a lost Western cougar took up the cause and began vigorously or an animal that escaped captivity. If New documenting and investigating cougar Brunswick had a breeding population, he sightings in New Brunswick and Nova says, scientists would have found at least Scotia. a single carcass, evidence of attacks in More than 600 sightings were recorded winter deer yards, or even a den. between 1977 and 1994, by both "I think there have been some experienced and novice observers terrifically good reports by people who are including hunters, trappers, wildlife credible," he said. "But the fact that these technicians, foresters, veterinarians, cats can travel such big distances - but taxidermists and law enforcement officers. even then, you would have thought that Witnesses seldom got within 15meters one of them would have been hit by a car." LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. 16 Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 Canadian Lynx Gives Birth in Maine Tuesday, June 29, 1999 The den site is a young forest that appears to have been logged 10 to 15 The discovery of Canada lynx kittens years ago. The dense re-growth of young on June 18 is evidence that the animals trees combined with larger uprooted trees do exist and reproduce in the wild in provides a tangle of vegetation to hide Maine, federal biologists announced newborn lynx kittens. Monday. "While this is just one 'We can now say, sighting of one animal, without question, that there the discovery is is a lynx population in evidence that the Maine and not just an animals can survive in occasional animal passing a young forest habitat," through from Canada," said said Organ. Some Dr. John Organ, a biologist environmentalists with the U.S. Fish and .1 - ; have argued that the UL 2.4 f &A Wildlife Service. This Canadian Lynx cub in thewild cats need old-growth discovery adds to the forests for their biological evidence on the status of cat survival. that the agency is reviewing as it 'We don't have old-growth forests in considers listing the Canada lynx as Maine," said Organ. "Perhaps it is the threatened under the Endangered Species structural diversity that may be a factor.'' Act. A decision is expected in January The cats, which have large feet that 2000. act like snowshoes, allowing them to hunt Organ and a team of federal biologists in deep snow, feed primarily on snowshoe began a study this past winter to learn hare, a large rabbit found in young more about the status of Maine's lynx forests. populations and to determine what Lee Perry, commissioner of the Maine management actions, if any, are needed Department of Inland Fisheries and to conserve the species. Wildlife, and Ronald Lambertson, The biologists captured a female lynx Northeast regional director of the U.S. in a trap in northwestern Maine in March, Fish and Wildlife Service, agree that the fitted her with a radio collar and released managed cutting of timber in northern her back into the wild. She was observed Maine has created ideal conditions for later in March traveling on a logging road snowshoe hare and, therefore, likely for with two smaller lynx. The biologists said lynx as well. the two were probably offspring from the Lynx were historically found previous year. throughout much of Canada, the northern At the end of May, the cat's movements forests of the U.S. and the subalpine stopped. According to what is known forests of the central and southern Rocky about the lynx, the biologists suspected Mountains. The service has proposed she had established a den to give birth to listing the lynx as a threatened species a litter of kittens. After allowing the cat under the Endangered Species Act in 16 three weeks to settle, the biologists went of the lower 48 states, because of a decline to the den site to confurn that she had in population numbers and a reduction given birth. They found two kittens, one in the amount of suitable habitat occupied male and one female. by the animals. LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 17 AZA Supports Foreign Endangered Species Act
SILVER SPRING, Md. universities, and others that use a tiger June 11, 1999 as a logo or mascot to make contributions Summarized from U.S. Newswire to tiger conservation efforts. 'The AZA Tiger Species Survival Plan The American Zoo and Aquarium (SSP) has for years provided protection Association (AZA) strongly supports 'The for tigers in our care and in the wild," Foreign Endangered Species Conservation commented Butler, who is a council Act of 1999." member of the National Fish and Wildlife "AZA's mission is to save and protect Foundation Save the Tiger Fund. the wonders of the living natural world," More than 134 million people visit stated Sydney J. Butler, executive director AZA's 184 accredited zoos and aquariums of the AZA. "This bill provides much annually, and members daily educate needed funding for endangered species visitors about the devastating effects of and their habitats." the illegal trade in endangered species The Foreign Endangered Species parts and products, as well as the loss of Conservation Act of 1999 would establish vital species habitat. AZA facilities go far a fund to support projects to conserve beyond the daily care and husbandry of endangered and threatened species in animals. In 1998 alone, they supported foreign countries. Granting priority would nearly 700 conservation and research be given to projects that enhance projects in 80 countries. conservation of the most imperiled species "And while AZA zoos and aquariums and that provide the greatest conservation have become the last stronghold for some benefit. The bill would authorize $10 species, including the tiger, we realize we million annually for four years, 1999 to cannot save them by zoo propagation 2003. alone," concluded Butler. "AZA and its 'AZA supports the Asian Elephant member institutions will continue to work Conservation Act, the African Elephant with Congress, Federal agencies, Conservation Act and the Rhino/Tiger conservation organizations and the Conservation Act, and this bill provides private sector world-wide to conserve additional opportunities for multi-species these magnificent animals." conservation in the wild," he continued. "We will work with our colleagues to gain The American Zoo and Aquarium passage of this bill, and the Association was founded in 1924 and appropriations necessary to make it currently represents 184 accredited zoos successful." and aquariums in North America. AZA's Additionally, AZA supports Sen. mission is to support membership Chafee, the National Fish and Wildlife excellence in conservation, education, Foundation, and Exxon in their new science and recreation. campaign to challenge companies, LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. 18 Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999
fà So You Want ? a Baby @I 10 Poor Reasons For Wanting An Exotic Cat . . . So you can impress your friends, neighbors, or the neighbor's dog. Because your friend or neighbor has one. So you can tame a wild beast. Because the price was to good to pass up. So you can attract attention by walking it around town on a leash. Because the kittens look so cute. So you can release it back into the wild when it grows up or you grow tired of it. Because they are easy to take care of. So you can release it in the forest and go "lion" hunting. Because there is no better way to train your hunting dogs.
If any of these are the reason you want an exotic cat, some other animal may be a better for you.
Three Years.? LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 19 Res~onsible
Have you visited a home where exotic cats are privately owned? Private ownership of an exotic cat is a Have you spoken at length with privilege which carries with it an owners of exotic cats concerning obligation to ensure that the health and the realities of ownership? safety of the mal,the animal's species, Are you prepared to give your cat and the public is not significantly or their own portion of your home or unnecessarily threatened. Conformance property, respecting their to the following basic principles is occasional need for privacy? findmental to meeting these obligations: Do you understand the basic Compliance with all applicable local, psyche of exotic cats so you can state, and federal regulations. safeguard against potential Taking appropriate precautions to accidents to humans, the cat, and ensure the health and safety of the public other animals? is not jeopardized. Do you have, or are you prepared Ensuring, to the maximum extent to obtain, the knowledge needed to practical, that the source of animals adequately care for the cats acquired does not threaten the viability physical, and psychological needs? of the species in the wild. Are you financially able and willing Providing adequate care and facilities to provide the necessary facilities, for the animal's physical and diet, and veterinary care for up to psychological needs. 18 years? Concrete plans for continued care Are all other members of your should you become unwilling or unable household supportive your desire to provide it. (Don't assume a zoo will take to own an exotic cat? your animal.) Are you aware of and The concepts willing to comply with all mentioned above local, state, and federal form the basis for the laws which may apply to L1OC9s Code of the ownership of the cat Conduct for private you wish to own? owners of wild Are you willing to accept felines. If you are total responsibility for either unwilling or any property damage or unable to accept injury caused by your these responsibil- cat? ities, then DON'T Are you willing to devote GET AN EXOTIC the time needed to CAT! adequately care for your cat? Printed with permission from If you answered yes to ALL of George Stowers. the previous questions, then Copyright 1998, Noel Maxwell holding you may be ready for four-hour old baby tiger. Mainely Felids. ownership of an exotic cat. July 8, 1999 LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. 20 Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 Midwest Exotic Feline Educational Society Minutes of Regular Meeting - April 18, 1999
The April meeting was held at Rob Craig's Cougar Valley Farms near Monticello, Indiana*on Sunday, April 18. , 1 Rob owns and operates a wildlife rescue center which includes approximately 20 LeeAnn wildcats. A special thank you goes out to Montgomery Rob for hosting the meeting and opening with her serval, up his home for the pitch-in dinner and osiris meeting. It was unexpectedly cool and rainy that day making it necessary to fit almost 50 people in his farm home. A big thanks from all of usl Rob! and Mike their Some members drove several hours to and caraca19 MOntgOmev attend the meeting: JB and Reva had her serval, and Marvin Hierlmeier hderson from Missouril Niw his serva19 Hush3 all pet and her guests from Wisconsin, Carol and enjoy. Siegley from Ohio, William Olson and The weekend started off with dinner Dam Haden from Ibois,the M-eus, night at a steak the Jones, and LeeAnn Montgomery from restaurant in Mooresville. We had 22 Kentucb. The MEFEsbranch covers a MEFES members attending and two LIOC seven-state area in the member guests* Jean BucHe~ Approximately 45 members and theb mOna Debbie wdding Oregon. guests attended the meeting. xter be Kelly Jean and Debbie took a mini- toured R0b9s facility, we had a pot-luck and 'pend the dinner followed by the meekg. Some of weekend with the Turner's and attend the the topics discussed are as fouows: meeting. Sunday morning* Gary Dutcher talked the Johnson's from about advertisements in the Zionsvillel provided a great newsletter. breakfast for 28 members Bob Turner talked before we caravaned up about problems we heard north to Rob Craig's facility. Ginger Becken on the West Thanks to the Johnsons for coast was having with their hospitality. somebody killing one of her Jim and Rita O'Brian, cats with poison. who are new members, Nikki Martin talked opened up their home for about how outsiders carne to four out-of-~tatemembers (Max, Magel her facfiv and tfled to her cats. and and LeeAnn was a very emotional topic for Nikki to Montgomery) Saturday night. talk about. She made us all aware that LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 2 1 there can be people in our areas and all over the country that want to harm and kill our cats. Nikki said, we all need to look very carefully at the security of our cats. Examples given were to use a post office box address rather than your own street address on any correspondence and install security cameras. Rob Craig talked about his future plans for his facility. Tonya Jones gave a treasury report on money in the MEFES account. Marvin gave a talk on how Hush, his serval, accidentally swallowed a fish hook "It's all a metter of taste, but and that Hush passed the hook through I there're writers I've liked better." his system without harm. We all were so happy that everything is OK with Hush. Many of the LIOC members have met Hush at the past two LIOC national Answers to Feline IQ Questions: conventions. (from page 12) Neveia Chappel discussed setting up a MEFES web site, yet protecting our 3,OOOBC in Egypt privacy. Herald "Max" Maxwell gave a talk on lions, tigers, leopards, jaguars how to safely enter a large cat cage. 7OYo sleeping, 15V0 grooming The membership voted to move the Less than 50 meeting from Sundays to Saturdays. brought to fmerica by colonists The membership voted on having the to protect their granaries and as family membership dues of $15.00 per year. We voted to drop the single pets. membership dues to $10.00 11 - 15 pounds of meat The membership voted to change the estimated 65.8 million cats and term of Officers from two years to one 54.9 million dogs year. Bob said he thinks more members may run for an office if the term is for one through their tails-an upright tail year instead of two years. means alertness and a low Kelly Jean talked about the up-coming swinging tail means playfulness LIOC national convention. or nervousness. Bob announced that the next meeting will be held at Me's Zoo, Inc. and that the lion date and time will be put in the next 290 bones and 5 17 muscles MEFES newsletter. 20 hours Respectfully submitted, cat 3Omph, human 27.89 mph Monica Copper, Editor, MEFES newsletter cat Bob Turner, President Arican and European wildcat 12 feet LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. 22 Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 What's Your Opinion?
Declawing destroying her furniture. That excessive meowing was also causing problems and the neighbors were complaining. A This procedure has certainly generated hemicordectomy was performed (removal controversy among cat lovers for years. I of one vocal cord) and no more meowing. personally feel paws come with claws and Then his excessive running about at night should remain so, and yet there are many was too disturbing, so he was put on of you who feel declawing is necessaxy for buspirone. Finally his owner was happy your own reasons. but at his expense. If I were Thomas and I realize all cats can be dangerous, had a choice, I would have stayed in the they have large teeth, sharp claws, and alley. He was captured, castrated, pound for pound are extremely strong and declawed, devoiced, and now drugged to agile. Safety is a major consideration make his activity level more acceptable when sharing your heart and home with to his owner. Is convenience that them. However, I think we'd be hard important to put a cat through that? If pressed to find an LIOC member who you cannot accept the behaviors and doesn't have scars and bite wounds. If we physical properties of cats, maybe another wanted to be Revlon hand and arm species is a better choice. models, we would have taken up that Cats spray, howl, roar, bite, claw, and profession. Instead we love, care, and express their anal glands, behaviors most work for the preservation of these of us bdappalling, but tolerable. I'm sure magnificent animals and that has its our behaviors and smells are quite risks. disgusting as well to them, but they Does declawing benefit the cat in any tolerate us well. Why do we feel the need way? I think if you asked for their vote, it to change them? most certainly would be a nay. Why do There will always be exceptions to the we have to change them to suit our needs? rule where declawing is concerned and I I work at a veterinary clinic where don't have all the answers yet either. If fortunately the doctors also believe in not the exceptions can be few and far declawing. We do our best to work with between, the cats will be happier and we the owners in their domestic cats to find will have done what we set out to do, solutions. We are not perfect and preserve, propagate, and live with sometimes a frustrated owner will take compassion, understanding. and respect their cat elsewhere for the procedure, but of a different species. the number of cats spared is significant. This is a story I would like to share Lisa Padula and Paul Richardson with you from a book by Dr. Nicholas Marlborough, MA Dodman. It is called "The Cat Who Cried for Help." This is a story of Thomas, a male What's your opinion on domestic alley cat who was rescued by a declawing? Mrs. Roper. His maleness was too much Contact Marge Maxwell, for her to handle so he was neutered, Editor. (See page 2 for followed by declawing as he was address, email, or fax.) LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 23 Mystery of "An Ocelot in Your Home'' Oregon member Karin Donoyan wrote: thing conducive to a "good pet" in any context. Catherine did not encoul age "In the early l97O9s, my youngest exotic ownership as she recognized the daughter, age 7 or 8, had askecfme to get extent of these considerations and the her a book about ocelots. I did an exten- special care these animals require. sive search and felt eAxtremelylucky to find So we'll probably never know the story the book "An Ocelot in Your Home'' (T.F.H behind "An Ocelot in Your Home," or why mblications, 1968). by Cathe~eCisin. Catherine's name appears on it. perhaps Both my daughter and I treasured this there's someone out there that bows, as book. We had no intention of owning an Paul Harvey says "the rest of the story." ocelot , since we lived in an apartment at the time, but the wealth of information combined with the marvelous photo- graphs made us feel we were very close to the real thing." Early in my acquaintance with Catherine I mentioned this book to her, asking her to autograph it if I brought it to Convention as she had "Especially Oce- lots" (copyrightdate 1967). Her reply was curt - 'That isn't my book." End of sub- ject, and her tone implied I should not inquire further. This volume has never been reprinted. Other than the "about the author" segme~it,no pictures of 34 pages of practical tips and Catherine are contained in the book. The guidelmes for proper caging and acknowledgements do credit many New handling of exotic cats. york zoos and persons including Dr. Includ$s diagrams on Theodore Reed, whom Catherine had a constr~~ction of proper close relationship Wth in the early days eqt~i~mentfor any size fdin~. of the Club. including squeeze cages. collars However, the caption under the first leashes and much, much more. pk.~tographof an ocelot kitten rezds: .'Ocelots can make wonderful pets if you Send $5 00 (US) plus $1 25 ,J g~ abut it correctly. " I feel very strongly postage to: that Catherine would never have made LICE ibis statement, especially by the late 60's 3730 Belle Isle Lane wher~this book was published and about hfobile, AL 36619 the time I first had contact with her. She achiowledged the special considerations and accommodations one had to make to share a home with an ocelot - not some- LIOC Endangered Species Conservation Federation, Inc. 24 Volume 43, Issue 4 - July/August, 1999 -..., ,, ,