Jan/Feb/Mar 2017 • Volume 61 Issue 1 TABLE OF

JANUARY - MARCH 2017 | VOLUME 61, ISSUE 1 contentscontents

Features

A Day in the Life of Kazuma 12 Sue Steffens updates us on Kazuma, a lion rescued from Guatemala. 15 Landry’s Ordered to Pay ALFD $450,000 15 13 The Landry’s lawsuit against ALDF did not go well, appeal planned.

Saddest Day on Earth – Just the Beginning 15 Editorial by Protect the Harvest on the end of Ringling’s circuses.

FCF Annual Convention Meets at Hyatt Regency 17 in Sarasota, Florida Get ready for high style and plenty of perks at the Hyatt.

FCF Heads to Sarasota for Summer Fun! 18 Kittens on display, Big Cat Habitat’s “Edutain- ment,” and Circus Museum tour promise good times for all.

Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center 27 Shelleen Mathews writes on their three day stay at the zoo.

USDA Fails to Protect Animal Businesses 36 Mindy Patterson of the Cavalry Group speaks out about how USDA is aiding animal rights.

Phaedra and the Chipmunk 37 Behavior training aided the recapture of Carol Cochran’s serval. 3838

66 1515 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 JOIN THE FCF IN ITS CONSERVATION EFFORTS - WWW.FELINECONSERVATION.ORG

The FCF supports conservation of wild felids by advocating for qualified individuals to own and to pursue husbandry of wild felines, providing expertise and material support to ensure the continued welfare and viability of these populations, contributing to research, and funding protection programs that benefit felids living in nature. Send $35 annual dues ($40 Canada, $50 international) to FCF, 141 Polk Road 664, Mena, AR 71953. Contact Us Husbandry The Three T’s of Training Your FOUNDER: DIRECTORS: 10 Pet Catherine Cisin Conservation Carol Cochran shares simple Pat Callahan guidelines that apply to all EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: 1961 Connecticut Ave species. Lynn Culver Cincinnati, OH 45224 [email protected] 513-304-7155 [email protected] 2017 FCF Convention Courses OFFICERS: 14 FCF teaches Basic Wild Feline President Chris Tromborg Husbandry Course and Wildlife Kevin Chambers 217 Baja Avenue Conservation Educators Course. 7816 N CR 75 W Davis, CA 95616 Shelburn, IN 47879 530-753-2763 812-397-2302 [email protected] Blast from the Past: Peggy and [email protected] 29 Pussy – Unintentional Mothers Robert Bean Heidi Fahrenholz recounts mar- Vice President 4633 Chandler Road gay and oncilla births in this 1976 Mindy Stinner Hermitage, TN 37076 LIOC reprint. P.O. Box 882 615-889-4633 Mebane, NC 27302 [email protected] 336-421-0065 Cytauxzoonosis [email protected] JOURNAL STAFF: 30 A primer of this tick-borne dis- Managing Editor: ease that is deadly to felines. Secretary Lynn Culver Rebecca Krebs P.O. Box 770514 Layout/Copy Editor: Cytauxzoonosis Felis (AKA Bob- Miami, FL 33177 Eden Burgess, [email protected] 31 cat Fever) 305-962-5349 Danny Waldo gives a detailed [email protected] Associate Editor: account of how he saved his cat Judith Hoffman Treasurer Buddy. Lynn Culver Membership Services: 141 Polk Road 664 Jennifer Kasserman Mena, AR 71953 816-674-7277 479-394-5235 membershipservices Legislation [email protected] @felineconservation.org

Latest Legislation in the States The FCF is a non-profit (Federal ID#59-2048618), 28 Amy Flory summarizes bills that Organization non-commercial society devoted to the welfare and affect the feline community. conservation of exotic felines. The FCF publishes the Journal quarterly. Members are encouraged to donate older copies of 4 From the Executive Director the Journal, with permission of the resident, to vet offices, dental or medical waiting rooms, or public Conservation libraries or public officials, to increase awareness of Wild Cat Research in the Tropical 5 Letter from the President the FCF, its members, and mission. 6 Rainforest of Belize Secretary The author’s point of view does not necessarily rep- Debi Willoughby begins a long resent the point of view of the FCF. Reproduction of term wildlife monitoring project any material in the Journal may not be made without in Belize. the written permission of the original copyright own- 5 Registered Handlers ers and/or copyright owner, FCF. Display advertisement space is available at the following prices: $10 business card, $25 quarter page, Pictorials 34 Donations $50 half page, and $100 full page ad. Your Best Shots Submit articles on hus- 20 Patty Perry, Danny Waldo, bandry, conservation, current Anne-Laure Michelis, Shelby Harrison, Doug Kildsig, Chris events, editorials, and photos Berry, Courtney Frenchak. for publication to the managing editor, Lynn Culver, at [email protected].

3 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 From the Executive Director By Lynn Culver bring your family. We have a new political climate out Just as we have in past years, exotic kit- there and it is untested waters. Is the new The FCF has a new board of directors, tens will be on display that Tuesday in the administration, with its emphasis on busi- but it still needs a treasurer. I have hospitality suite. Florida is a regulated ness and focus on reducing government remained in this position only until the state and, if you are not already licensed regulation, going to pass on enacting more board appoints a replacement. Our candi- by Florida, you cannot bring in a kitten ban laws? Or do some things never date had to step down before the election, without meeting the licensing require- change? Please get involved; talk to your leaving this position unfilled. An FCF ments for the species you wish to bring. representatives before it’s too late. This is treasurer should possess some basic The out-of-state annual exhibiting license legislation season again, and Amy Flory accounting knowledge and proficiency in fee is $150 annually. You need to apply has updated us on several pending bills QuickBooks, or another similar program. early, and then also apply for an import before state legislatures in an article on The FCF does business with two banks, permit for the FCF event. Fortunately, page 28. has savings and checking accounts, and Florida has plenty of members with I am disturbed by what I am hearing PayPal. It also accepts credit card pay- felines and several breeders, so we expect and reading about concerning the direc- ments. All of this needs to be tracked and a variety of kittens to be part of our con- tion this county is taking to heat up the accounted for. I hope that an FCF mem- vention agenda. economy. We need to be vigilant, because ber will contact the president or me to ask Our field trip this year will be to Big bills being introduced will weaken and questions and consider serving in this Cat Habitat, a very fine FCF member demolish environmental protection. There capacity. facility that has hosted a Wildcat Weekend is talk of selling American lands, especial- This year, the FCF will be publishing a in the past. Kay and her son Clayton are ly our national parks, to companies wanti- quarterly Journal, a change from a 60- gracious hosts and, having already visited ng to extract resources and despoil those year history of bi-monthly publication. during the FCF Wildcat Weekend, I know lands. The regulations designed to safe- Hopefully, we can still get information what we are in for and it is something spe- guard natural habitats and our finite natur- into the hands of our members in a timely cial! Read all about it in this issue and al resources are under attack for depress- manner, especially with the majority of join us July 25th through 27th for Con- ing economic growth. We cannot have our members linked to the internet and vention. Come early to take the Hus- nature if we don’t leave some clean water receiving communications through email, bandry Course or the Wildlife Educator’s and some wild lands for wildlife. It’s up Facebook, or Yahoo groups. Communica- Course being taught on July 24th. to the citizens to voice their opinions on tion is a two-way these matters. It’s up street. Every member FCF NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT to our wildlife educa- is encouraged to con- tors to make the case tribute articles and for nature, to speak for photos to our Journal, creatures that cannot share links and stories speak for themselves, on our Facebook Meet the and to get their audi- group, and post ques- Wildcat ences to fall in love tions online with our with animals and be members-only Yahoo Safety Net motivated to protect group. Challenge! them and the habitats This issue of the they need. I am sure I Journal unveils our am preaching to the Convention plans. choir here. We’ll be staying at a In closing, I would The FCF Safety Net Fund awards grants to transport very nice hotel; the just like to share my Hyatt Regency Saraso- felines in need to available facilities with the space and sympathy to Alice and ta is a four star venue. staff ready to provide lifetime care. the Schoebel family for It’s going to be a great For each donation of $30 or more, choose one of three thank you prints by artist Teri their loss. I have event and, for many, a Zucksworth. These 18” x 24” colored pencil drawings are ready for matting and framing. worked in coordination super vacation as well. Pick the black leopard, “Hanging Around,” the with Alice and Mark to lounging white tiger, “Paying a Visit,” or the We’re on the marina, snow leopard, “Standing Guard.” oppose ban legislation and we have free shut- Go to the FCF website to make a donation with introduced into Wis- tle access to the beach. PayPal today. Or call the treasurer at consin in years past. The FCF group can use 479-394-5235 to use your credit card and support The state has lost a the hotel’s paddle this worthy cause. great advocate for pri- boats, swimming gear, Do your part to help transport captive felines vate ownership and a and fishing gear at no out of harm’s way—support the FCF Wildcat great animal person. charge, so arrive early, Safety Net with a donation today. invite your friends, and

4 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 FCF Member Mark Letter from the President Secretary Schoebel Passes Away February 23, 2017 By Rebecca Krebs, FCF Secretary

A great friend and animal advocate, With the passing of Mark Schoebel, an Mark Scott Schoebel, passed away Febru- absolute icon in the zoological field, it is a ary 23rd, while undergoing open heart reminder that all of us are here on this surgery. Mark always had an engaging, earth but for a short while. However, the warm smile every time he met you. He information that we learn about the care was a dedicated husband, wonderful par- of a species and the conservation that we ent, and awesome friend. Mark seemed do, can last for generations to come. to have vitality and drive that few could There are several people who I consider keep up with. He was quick-witted, to be the greats, the pioneers, in the zoo- loved an intelligent conversation, and logical field today. These gems have so always had time to share ideas and plans much to share and teach to the rest of us. for the future. He actually had become a Trouble is, these people are usually so legend in his own time in the animal busy caring for the animals they have a industry. passion about, that getting one-on-one Over the years, he designed, built, and time with them can be quite a challenge. operated several wildlife parks with his Well, there is a terrific opportunity loving wife, Alice. In the past few years, awaiting you, the upcoming FCF Conven- he and his wife and son, Matt, designed, tion! The FCF Annual Convention is a built, and operated Mark's dream zoo, great time to connect and learn from some called Timbavati Wildlife Park, in the of the forerunners of captive animal and Dells, Wisconsin. He belonged to numer- feline care. At the convention, you will ous organizations, including the Zoologi- get the opportunity to have on-on-one cal Association of America, Wisconsin time and form lasting bonds with individ- Zoo Association, several fair and festival uals who have so much knowledge to associations, and the Feline Conservation share. Prior to attending an FCF Conven- Federation, just to name a few. He was a tion, I often wondered what the conven- strong voice for private animal owner- tions were all about and why I should ship, going to bat for us all against differ- attend. Well, after attending a few FCF Mark Schoebel with one of the ent animal rights groups. Conventions, I have found that this is white lion cubs born at his Wiscon- Mark was truly a man's man and an where bonds and friendships are made sin facility. inspiration to us all. He will be greatly and strengthened. There are some great sion and learn from one another. Togeth- missed by all those who knew him. How- classes and lectures to glean from as well. er, we can make the lives of the animals ever, Mark will always live on in our However, the real purpose, in my mind, is in our care better, lobby for the privilege memories and in our hearts for as long as to connect with others who share our pas- we take a breath. of ownership of captive exotics, and do conservation in Kurt Krebs great ways. “United Registered Exotic Feline Handler Program we stand, divided we fall.” Don’t miss The FCF board of directors congratulates the following individuals for this amazing oppor- being accepted into the Registered Exotic Feline Handler Program since tunity to connect the past Journal issue. with some of the greats of our gener- Katie Crane - Basic Lenard Hughes - Intermediate ation. Attend the FCF Convention Basic Feline Handlers have documented at least one year of experience, Intermedi- and meet them, ate level is at least five years of experience, and Advanced handlers have more than share some laughs, ten years experience. Update your registration when you obtain additional handling learn a lot, and pos- experience or new species experience. sibly get a beach- The online registration form can be filled out directly in the members-only section kissed suntan while of the FCF website. The $30.00 registration fee can be made through PayPal. you are at it. Being a registered handler is the first step to becoming a Professional Member. Professional Membership application is also online on the Members-Only website. Congratulations to all of these members for their dedication to their cats.

Rebecca Krebs, FCF Secretary

5 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 Wild Cat Research in the Tropical Rainforest of Belize By Debi Willoughby Guatemala. This protected area is where Research and Environmental Education we are performing our research. The slash (BFREE) as our main focus, and we also As I step off the plane onto the tarmac, and burn method is being used illegally chose a second location about a two-hour the warm tropical air hits my face and I along the edges of these protected areas drive away, with similar attributes, at the realize that my last three years’ worth of and provides us with a great location to Toucan Ridge Ecology and Education research and planning has finally come study animal behavior in truly protected Society (TREES). together as we start our hands-on field areas, as well as areas that are being So back to my opening paragraph of research project! What an amazing feel- encroached upon by villages. “the warm tropical air on the tarmac;” ing to finally get to work on years of The basis of our project is to gain a bet- after we were processed through the air- preparation and anticipation! ter understanding of wild feline ecology port, we had two phases for our trip. The I have often dreamed of doing wild cat and behavior patterns both in protected first phase was visiting tourist destinations research in some faraway, tropical loca- areas and in areas of human encroach- with a group of friends (two of them being tion, but I never thought it would become ment. Our objective is to determine the FCF members Mark & Shelleen Math- a reality! So how did this project come to activity patterns of wild felines between ews). This is something we have done for be? Using my dreams and desire to make the two types of land use, based on the the past few years, gathering a group of a direct impact on wild cat conservation, I number and temporal distribution of pho- people to take down to Belize to share spent hundreds of hours scouring the tographs from trail cameras, and to deter- what we love about this beautiful country internet to study up on potential location mine habitat use, based on the presence or and show them the magnificent sites. We sites, read hundreds of wild cat will be offering group trips in the research papers, spoke with many future for anyone who is interested; people working in the conservation just drop me an email or Facebook community, and I set up trail cam- message, or pick up the phone. era research locally, all before mak- On this particular trip, we first ing numerous visits to our target site stayed at a lodge in the jungle and in Belize, to pave the path that visited a major Mayan ruin site, then formed our conservation project. along the way to our Caribbean Belize is a Central American coast resort, we spent a day hiking country about the size of my home and river tubing in the jungle at the state of Massachusetts, and five jaguar preserve known as species of wild cat (jaguar, puma, Cockscomb Basin. Once at the ocelot, margay, and jaguarundi) are ocean, we enjoyed snorkeling and native there. It is an English-speak- swimming at the second largest bar- ing country, has an international air- rier reef in the world and relaxed on port, and is relatively safe for travel- Group photo of the Belize adventurers in front the picturesque and sparsely populat- ers. The vast majority of the local of Mayan ruin in the heart of the jungle. ed beaches! Everyone had a great human population is contained in time, with lots of laughs and many three main cities and along its coast, leav- absence of wild feline species at camera memories to take back with them to the ing the interior sparsely populated. Belize locations. Trail camera image data will be states. is experiencing some negative impact on collected over a ten-year time period and During one of our nights in the jungle their lands due to the local people slashing continuously be analyzed to determine the resort, I had a meeting with Bart Harmsen, and burning the jungle so they can plant different behavioral patterns exhibited in who works at the University of Belize in crops to make money and provide for their wild felines between the two types of the Environmental Research Institute families. The lush jungles are being areas. department. He also is in charge of the depleted and there is a need for alternate After doing a lot of research about trail cameras for Panthera at the plans so Belizeans can utilize better con- Belize to select a couple of target location Cockscomb Jaguar Preserve. We dis- servation practices and still earn an sites, my husband and I visited one of cussed his work, our project, and how we income. That is one of the main areas we them last year to do some “due diligence” can work together toward a common goal. are encompassing our project around; and set up a few trail cameras to scout out Bart is in the forefront of trail camera developing conservation methods that are the area. We needed proof that the loca- research in Belize, and is a great asset to mutually beneficial to Belize’s wildlife tion we picked for our project was actual- know and work with. I am happy to say and the local villages. ly inhabited by wild cats. We were pleas- that after that meeting, Bart contacted us Belize has a beautiful mountain range antly surprised at the number of wild cat to see if we wanted to be directly involved called the Maya Mountains, which covers images we captured on our cameras within in one of his projects, which we gladly about one million acres of central/south- a short one-month time span! Due to the accepted! ern Belize, and most of that land is pro- human encroachment factor along the After we dropped everyone off at the tected. It also serves as a wildlife corridor edges of this area and the plentiful feline airport, my husband and I put on our for animals to travel between southern activity, we chose this existing research researcher caps and headed deep into the Mexico, through Belize, and into center called the Belize Foundation for Mayan Mountain jungles. Our first stop

6 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 across the river to bring you a BFREE, our phones do not work there, canoe. Like I said, getting to internet is only available for a short period BFREE’s remote location is always of time in the morning (if you are lucky), an adventure! and you do not want to keep your lights Once at the compound, the facili- on at night, because they attract bugs. So, ties are nice, but rustic. We stay in once we retire to our cabana for the night, a newly built, raised cabana, with we lay on our bed surrounded by darkness three of the four walls being screen, and the sounds of the jungle. There is a and one wall being made of wood. constant hum of the cicada bugs in the This gives you the feeling of sleep- background and off in the distance, and ing right out in the jungle without we could hear two different troops of being pestered by bugs. There is a howler monkeys calling back and forth to sink in the cabana, but no bathroom. each other. What often sounded like an BFREE is ecofriendly and uses animal walking across the roof of the Debi and Ed stayed at one of BFREE’s solar panels for electricity and fil- cabana was just the gentle breeze brushing cabanas, with three of the four walls tered rainwater/river water for the tall fern trees against the roof, and being screen, and one wall being made of cleaning/drinking/cooking purpos- occasionally you would hear an animal wood. es. With that said, there is an open- pass by on the jungle floor and would air shower stall and a shared com- wonder what species it was. You would was at TREES, which is nestled between posting toilet (glorified outhouse), not have your answer until the next morn- two mountain ranges and surrounded by which are both a short walk away from the ing when you looked for its tracks! How lush, tropical jungle and a myriad of sleeping cabanas. Down the path from the exciting it was to find tapir tracks right brooks and streams. We met with one of cabanas is a bunkhouse where student along the edge of our cabana in the morn- the owners, Mathieu, and then planned out groups can sleep. They also have a gener- ing! where we would set up a few cameras to al meeting building that consists of a After a good night’s sleep and a protein get a sampling of the wild cat population kitchen, eating area, and lounge ham- packed breakfast, we loaded our back- along the foothills of the mountains. It mocks, with books nearby. BFREE main- packs up with our equipment and headed was super-hot and humid that day, making tains trails that you can use to walk down the jungle trails with Canti and his hiking a bit uncomfortable, but the views through the jungle and they have erected a rangers to disperse our cameras. We have were spectacular and worth the walk! The lookout tower that you can climb to see strategically decided to set our cameras up trail cameras will stay in place for a few above the tree canopy; it is a great loca- at one end of BFREE’s property and slow- months gathering data, then on our next tion to watch the sun rise and the jungle ly move them across the property over trip down we will analyze the data and wake up. Bird lovers enjoy the above-the- time. With that said, we started at one end determine what direction to expand our treetop view. of the property and set up cameras at pre- trail cameras into on their property. Math- After unloading our supplies and lug- determined distances along (or near) the ieu was very accommodating and excited gage, we headed up to the eating/lounge trails. We also fastened camera covers to have us at his facility! We are looking area to rest and discuss our plans for the above our trail cameras to help protect forward to working with him in the future. next few days. After lounging in ham- them from the heavy rains and humidity. After spending the day at TREES, we mocks and eating dinner, we met with our Each camera was marked with its loca- drove south down the winding mountain designated field assistant, Canti, who is a tion, and the location was entered into a roads until we got to the entrance of head ranger and tourist BFREE. BFREE has a six mile long dri- guide. He works at veway that crosses the Bladen Nature BFREE patrolling their Reserve before entering into BFREE’s territory and guiding peo- land. The driveway consists of clay and ple through the jungle. mud, making the drive adventurous! I He and two of his rangers must admit that every time we visit, we assisted us with program- get the vehicle stuck in the mud and spend ming the cameras and get- time getting covered in the thick, pasty ting our equipment ready mud trying to get the truck out! With that to put out the next day. said, I am grateful that BFREE offers Once we finished, we pick-up service on the main road and that headed back down the it is not my vehicle getting stuck!!! trail to our cabana using a As you approach the end of BFREE’s flashlight to light the way. driveway, you have to cross a river to get At this time of year (Janu- to the compound. Depending on the time ary), it gets dark around 6 of year, that crossing could be in the truck pm and the sun comes up or holding your luggage above your head around 5:30 am, making These cabanas give you the feeling of sleeping and wading across, or if the current is too for long, dark nights. right out in the jungle without being strong, you have to holler to the guards There are no TVs at pestered by bugs.

7 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 GPS device so we know where to find cameras to at a later date! them when we return. As a side project, We spent the later portion of the we wanted to determine if the local afternoon regrouping and getting to species of wild cats were attracted to scent know our field assistant, Canti, bet- lure, so on half of the camera locations we ter. We compared our views of added a wildcat scent lure to the area. It Belize, our hopes for this project, and will be interesting to see how the local our overview of how we can work wildlife reacts to this scent! By with the local villages and help pre- lunchtime, we had dispersed a total of 20 serve wildlife. This conversation cameras at ten location sites, so we headed was invaluable to the goals of our back to camp to eat lunch and relax during project and we were all happy to be the heat of the day. able to have the time to discuss The next day, my husband decided to everything. accompany one of BFREE’s employees On our last day at BFREE, we The group visits Cockscomb Basin, a and Canti to survey an area near the river walked the trails to check our cam- jaguar preserve made famous in Alan that had been affected by a recent flood. eras to make sure they were set up Rabinowitz’s book “Jaguar.” Due to the river swelling, it had carved a correctly and working properly. may find interesting or may want to be a new route through the jungle. The river After maintaining our cameras, we left part of. You can learn more about this had been the border of BFREE’s territory, BFREE and headed toward civilization project on our website, www.JungleEn- and now that the river had a new path, it again, where our phones would work and counters.org/conservation, or on our Face- looked like BFREE had lost quite a bit of we could find Wi-Fi hotspots to connect to book page, Belize Wildcats. This project land. When this happens, BFREE has to the world! Oh, and using flushing toilets is run solely on donations and they are document the changes and submit them to again was a wonderful thing! greatly appreciated to keep the project As we boarded our plane to moving forward, and we try to update our head back to the States, I was sites consistently to keep our followers overwhelmed with a sense of up-to-date with how the project is pro- accomplishment. After three long gressing. years of researching and planning Looking back over the past three years, out this project, we finally got on have there been bumps along the way? – the ground and got the project up YES. Were there hurdles to overcome? – and running! It was an amazing MANY. Is the path now smoothly paved? feeling and we are excited to get – NO WAY! This project is extremely back to Belize to continue the valuable to Belize’s wildlife and a con- field work. Now that we are back stant challenge to keep running smoothly in the States, we are focusing on and effectively, but the efforts are fundraising, networking, and extremely rewarding! We feel blessed for spreading awareness about this Setting up camera traps in the Mayan the opportunity to be surrounded by lush project. These tasks will keep us mountain jungle. jungle life and be a part of ensuring very busy until we head back Belize’s wildlife remains wild and the local government so that they can down to Belize in the late summer healthy! reclaim their land; otherwise they will lose months. it. While they were off surveying the So what is the next step? damage and looking for wild cat signs, I Canti will maintain our cameras decided to take a walk through another and keep them working until we part of the jungle and survey the area for get back down there in late sum- wild cat activity. Being alone in the jun- mer to analyze the data and gle allowed my other senses to heighten move the cameras. We will also and I started to smell different animals be working on another group trip along different parts of the trail. It also that we will offer to the general gave me some time to quietly observe dif- public to show them the sites of ferent areas and make note of wild cat Belize; the trip will be sometime activity, like paw prints in the mud and between December 2017 and scratch activity. I spent a few hours focus- March 2018. In addition, we ing in on areas that looked like prime will be offering an opportunity jaguarundi and margay habitat. I was not for people to come down and lucky enough to see any wild cats on my help us with maintaining the trail walk, but I did find some cross paths that cameras, allowing people to get the cats use to get to a watering hole, and I hands-on experience in field While Debi and the group did not see any located a few potential margay resting research. There are many other jaguars, there was still plenty of evidence of areas. Exciting locations to move the branches to our project that you the big cat, like this print in the mud.

8 n — a Barbara, California For zoos b and small

Speedy the TuTurtle — Allison’s Bedro

Whether a zoo of 3,000 animals or a household of one, Mazuri® knows nutrition. Learn how we are advancing the science of animal nutrition. W W W.MAZURI.COM | Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 The Three T’s of Training Your Pet ® By Carol Cochran Do this petting technique until he The three t’s of training your pet are is comfortable simple. It works on all types of pets with you touching except one. I could never figure how to and rubbing every make it work with goldfish. The three t’s part of his body. are “talk,” “touch,” and “teach.” Teach is the Talk is the first part. You must talk to third step. When your pet as much as possible, even before you are talking to you ever touch him. He has to learn what your pet, then kind of person you are by your voice and touching and pet- the way you speak. Always use a soft, but ting him, you are firm voice, not monotone or boring, but teaching him from ͞FRESH + OASIS is the 'Missing Link' to a Healthy pleasant and with a smile in your voice. the beginning, but Complete Diet & Optimal Performance͟ Talk to him about the pretty grass, trees, there is a lot more flowers, Uncle Harvey, or anything that to teaching. Add Oasis premix to fresh meat & the result is a scientifically comes to mind, using the pet's name fre- Show him what balanced and complete real food diet ʹ no guess work. Oasis is quently. He does not understand the you want him to words, but will understand your personali- do with each com- professionally formulated by Dr. Gary Pusillo, and for over 20 ty by hearing your voice. mand by using the years, has been the #1 selling vitamin & mineral premix for exotic Touch is the second part of training. command, which cats, trusted by the world's top breeders, private zoos and Once you have talked to your pet and got- should be one sanctuaries. Now Oasis is available under the Complete Natural ten him to relax by using your voice and word (such as sit, Nutrition brand along with other exceptional nutritional tools like his name, then you start touching him. down, stay, etc.), Primal Cal, Rapid Rehab & Crisis Care. Extend your hand, palm down, and let him and putting him in sniff and examine your hand to learn your the position with www.CompleteNaturalNutrition.com / 866-807-7335 smell and be comfortable with the fact your hands, gently you are not going to grab him. When he but firmly. When is relaxed, with your hand being near him, he gets into the touch him gently, all the while talking to position you want, him and using his name. Rub him on the either by putting head, behind the ears and on the chest. him there or on his own, then praise him, never, ever scolding or yelling if he does Rub, do not pat. Patting an animal initial- but do not get loud and boisterous with not do it right, as he does not understand izes aggression or nervousness. Rub gen- your voice or he will jump up, thinking what you want. He will be fine if you tly along the back from head to tail a few you want to play. Praise him by scratch- take things slow and if he messes up or times and start rubbing his stomach, gen- ing his chest or behind his ears and telling things do not seem to go right, stop and go tly, then each leg, and the tail if he will let him he is a good boy. Do this with each back to the last command that he did cor- you. Let him look forward to your touch command, always letting him know you rectly; work that one again so that he per- and voice and always make it enjoyable. are proud of him for doing right, but forms that with no errors, then stop until the next training session. Always start a training session off with ANIMAL FINDERS' GUIDE working the commands he knows and can Published the first of each month do well and not starting the session off 12 issues – only $24 with a brand new command, and at the end of the training session, have him per- Informative articles on exotic form a command he knows and does well animal husbandry and what is so that you end the session with praise. happening in the industry. Exotic animals, related products & services, auctions & shows advertised. PO Box 99, Prairie Creek, IN 47869 phone: 812-898-2678, fax: 812-989-2013 www.animalfindersguide.com email: [email protected]

10 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017

11 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 A Day in the Life of Kazuma In the July 2012 issue of the FCF Journal, we published a couple of articles about Kazuma the lion, who was imported to Tigers for Tomorrow at Untamed Mountain from Guatemala, where he had spent his entire life in a traveling circus. Here’s a nice update on his cushy life in the U.S. By Sue Steffens making sure that my other lions what is den box and jungle going on. I have mul- Life here at Tigers for Tomorrow at gym are clean, my chef tiple toys in my home Untamed Mountain is pretty cool for a enters my enclosure that I played with. lion; where they built my enclosure, I get and puts my food on One is a big, plastic to watch the sunrise every morning. I like my big feed rock. My red egg, and I have a to roar out to the other lions and tell them feed rock is about 2.5 blue barrel I like to that our day has begun. A little while feet long and about ten bite. When I first got later, one of our keepers comes by to do inches high, which here, my new toys security check on the entire preserve. makes it easier for me were frightening. I did They say good morning to me every day. to eat when I don’t know what to do with I am very special and one of the only ani- have to bend down all them. Then, I figured mals who gets my own fan in the summer the time. I used to be out quickly if I started and a heating blanket in my den box in the in a traveling circus in batting the toys around winter. Guatemala, and my and throwing toys in Next, I wait and listen for the diesel of legs were very the air, people would the Kubota to start; this means my keepers unsteady. I was not all come to watch me are on the way with a truck full of meat. very strong since the play. I’ve been here There are many of us that live here. I hear muscles of my legs had Kazuma arrived in the U.S. after for years now and it that we go through about 900 pounds of atrophied from being spending his life in a traveling still works! I play meat a day. I like that I get to eat first. in a small space for so circus in Guatemala. with a toy or toss a Not only do I get to eat first, but when my long. Wilbur and Sue plastic egg around and keeper Sandy greets me in the morning, immediately started me on good vitamins all the keepers come over to watch and we have a game that we play every day. I and supplements to make me strong. clap and cheer me on. On fast days, I like race her to my holding area, an area in Wilbur hand-fed me every day for the first that we get some beef bones to chew. I which I’ve been conditioned to go so that three months; he would put the sweet jelly like to show off in front of people, espe- my enclosure can be cleaned, and my stuff inside my meat and he said it would cially when Sue is around. She is the per- water can be cleaned and filled, and a make me strong, so I agreed to eat it. My son that did all the paperwork to help me bucket of meat can be put on my feed jungle gym is built on two different levels, get to the preserve. I have a new game rock. I like the words that she says every but each level is low to the ground. In that I like to play with her now that I feel day; it’s kind of like a song - one for the order to get back in shape and make my better and I’m healthy. I like to hunt and money, two for the show, three to get legs start working as they should, Wilbur stalk her. I make myself look very big, ready - and sometimes I just go, instead of and Sue would walk me around my enclo- and then I run at her and jump at the waiting for the end the song. I can’t help sure, then make me get up and down on fence. I like to pretend that I am going to it; I get so excited that I’m going to eat. my jungle gym every day. Now I’m so get her. It’s like hunting a small rabbit; I Once housekeeping has finished mov- strong that I could run across the enclo- run up to wherever she is and jump up and ing my toys around to make them look sure and jump on the jungle gym if I down and hit my tail on the ground. It’s enticing, moving any of my waste, and wanted. My mane was also a big mess, so pretty funny, so I don’t know why she every day for a short time my takes it so personally! I am just acting people would work on cutting like a lion… that’s what I like around the mats off my mane through here, that I am allowed to be who I am. the gate, and little by little I A few days a week it’s quiet, and all the started looking GREAT! other animals like it that way; it gives us There are other lions that live some time to rest. Sometimes, a school here in the preserve, and each of group will come through with a lot of lit- us have our own area to over- tle ones. Our preserve teacher will always look. I live in a very special stop at my enclosure and talk about my area; I live close to the commis- past and how important it is to give ani- sary and across from the black mals their dignity and respect. They leopard, Benny. He was the first always talk about how brave I was, and animal Tigers for Tomorrow res- how I made a long plane trip to get to my cued and he gets a lot of respect new home. One of the most important Visitors to Tigers for Tomorrow watch Kazu- and love. I like to roar out multi- things they talk about is how animals ma celebrate his birthday. ple times a day and tell all of the always forget the wrongdoings that human

12 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 beings inflict on them. They say that my on my jungle gym. Visitors think that’s ambassador for my kind. Lions need a lot happiness and playfulness are proof of my funny; they say I’ve got the life. If they of help these days getting the word out big heart and love that I still have life only knew what I went through to get that our future in the wild is in jeopardy. within me. here. My job here is to be an ambassador At the end of every day, night checks I always know when it’s the weekend, for my species, as there are not very many are completed, the keepers say goodnight because everyone scurries around and gets of us left in the wild anymore. When to us, and the preserve belongs to the ani- ready to open to the public. For the next Wilbur gives his tours, he talks about how mals. Dusk is a great time for us lions to few hours, people come past my home and there could be less than 20,000 lions left communicate about the doings of the day, stop to look at me. They read the sign in the wild. It’s important for people to and then we all settle in for a night of about my story and admire how handsome understand wild animals and who we are, relaxation. Life is good! I am, of course. I like to lie upside down not what we are, so I don’t mind being an

Landry's Ordered to Pay ALDF $450,000 In the last issue of the FCF Journal, I reported on this defamation lawsuit filed by Landry’s against the Animal Legal Defense Fund, in response to their September 2016 written notice that if Landry's did not give up their tigers to a suitable sanctuary within 60 days, ALDF would file suit alleging the white tiger exhibit harms and harasses an endangered species in violation of the Endangered Species Act. Landry’s defamation suit was thrown out by the Harris County District Judge. Landry’s is an AZA-accredited exhibit that is now facing the same kind of legal harassment that smaller, independent zoos have suffered. ALDF will be filing their ESA suit and Landry’s will be appealing this defamation ruling. – Lynn Culver By Craig Malisow rooms and barely Reprinted from Houston Press allowed to see sunlight. Landry's The restaurant empire had sued the Ani- accused the advocates mal League Defense Fund and two indi- of "essentially extort- vidual advocates last November, over their ing" Landry's "into allegations of mistreatment of white tigers giving up the tigers, on display at Houston's Downtown Aquar- taking them from the ium. only home and care- Judge Steven Kirkland dismissed givers they have ever Landry's suit with prejudice and wrote that known, and sending the sanctions were necessary "to deter them to a 'sanctuary.'" Plaintiffs from filing similar actions in the Landry's argued in future." Kirkland also ordered Landry's to its lawsuit that ALDF pay more than $170,000 in legal fees. and advocates Cheryl White tiger on display at the Houston Downtown The California-based Animal League Conley and Carney Aquarium. Defense Fund last year threatened to sue Anne Nasser Landry's over the tigers, which the group "defamed the good name of a well-estab- In a January press release, Animal claimed were largely confined in concrete lished business with deliberately false League Defense Fund Executive Director accusations of animal mistreatment Stephen Walls called Landry's defamation and criminal conduct in an attempt to suit "a blatant attempt to silence free impose a fringe social agenda on a speech," and the group's Houston attorney, law-abiding business." Adam Milasincic, argued that the compa- Landry's further argued that the ny and its owner, billionaire Tilman Fertit- "tigers are held and exhibited in com- ta — the star of reality show Billion Dol- plete and full compliance with all lar Buyer — are public figures and fair applicable laws, federal or state." game for public discussion. But the animal advocates argued John Simpson, an attorney for that, for 12 years, Landry's has "con- Landry's, stated in an email that the ruling fined four adult tigers in indoor, con- "does not impact the white tigers at the crete pens beneath a seafood restau- Downtown Aquarium. Naturally, we are rant. Landry's does not allow the surprised at the Court’s ruling prematurely tigers outdoors; they live behind bars dismissing the defamation lawsuit. It is and glass and have never experienced unfortunate when false allegations are nature. Because there is a resin-cov- made against law-abiding citizens. The The Aquarium owns four white tigers ered skylight nearby, and the tigers Court’s ruling, including the sanction and only one is on public display at a sometimes get 'sod and wood chips,' award, will be appealed and should be time. The other three wait their turn Landry's calls this treatment humane." overturned." inside their night shift housing.

13 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 2017 FCF Convention Courses We get lots of inquiries throughout the communication, her vast understanding of The FCF Wild/Exotic Feline Hus- year asking when the next husbandry the subject matter, and her many stories bandry Course will be taught Mon- course is. When will we teach wildlife and antidotes add to the student’s learning day, July 24, 2017, at the Hyatt conservation education again? Well, the experience. Course content includes Regency Sarasota hotel, in Sarasota, answer is Monday, July 24th, at the Hyatt feline history, overlapping laws that regu- Florida, at the start of the FCF Con- Regency Sarasota Hotel in Sarasota, Flori- late private ownership, cage design and vention. Broaden your horizons, keep da! The teaching of these two very valu- construction, hand-rearing and adult hus- up with the latest in feline healthcare able classes kicks off our annual FCF bandry, veterinary medicine, and contin- and husbandry, and gain an under- Convention. Each has been taught many gency planning. Each class is unique, as standing of the laws, regulations, and times and continuous revisions and students are encouraged to share experi- government agencies that oversee pri- improvements make these classes even ences and ask questions. vate captive husbandry of wild felines. better today. The FCF Basic Wild Feline Husbandry Have you ever thought about making a Topics Covered Include: Course was developed in the 1990s to difference in the lives of children, adults, help novices get a start and, just as impor- and grandparents by sharing your animals Natural History of Wild Felines tantly, to broaden the base of knowledge and your love of exotic felines and other Regulatory Agencies & Permits of those who already possess or care for wildlife in live performances? It’s an Facility Design wild felines. The course has been important part of wildlife conservation. Handling Equipment described by many attendees as informa- So many communities lack a municipal or Diet / Nutrition tion-packed and of great value. even private zoo. But USDA exhibitors Health Care Basics Course instructor Mindy Stinner is a fill in the gap, traveling to nursing homes, Disposition & Handling teacher by profession, and her skills of libraries, parks, nature centers, and Behavior Conditioning schools, with trained animal ambassadors Contingency Planning Topics Covered in the Wildlife to bring the “zoo to you.” How do you get started? What’s the Conservation Educators Course: step-by-step procedure? You have the cat, How can individuals make a difference for •What permits you need to become an the love, and the desire, but you need nature? What can people do to help exhibitor and the laws you need to direction, guidance, and confidence to wildlife in their communities and back- abide by take that leap of faith. The Wildlife Con- yards? •What it means to be a professional servation Educator’s Course is the answer. This year’s course is taught by Michelle McKay and Kim Barker, seasoned guides, wildlife educator and how you will It will provide step-by-step instructions so keepers, and educators at the Conserva- impact your community and the animal you can build your dream into a reality - gain the necessary permits, licenses, insur- tor’s Center in North Carolina. They will industry ance, and business plan that will make you be sharing the stage and combining their •How to form a wildlife education busi- part of the conservation movement. knowledge to make sure students have all ness, establish a professional image, Right now it is more important than the understanding and resources they need and maintain credibility ever. With the new government’s empha- to build a business, or to be more knowl- edgeable and effective educators in their •How to choose wildlife ambassadors sis on “business growth” capacity as docents, volun- and basic animal husbandry and the lessening of environmental protections, the teers, or employees at •Animal training, enrichment, and future of threatened and established zoos, sanctuar- safety techniques endangered species is at ies, and nature centers. •How to develop educational shows risk. Education of the that flow smoothly, capture your audi- public is the only hope. Both courses will begin ence's attention, and raise conservation Studies show that audi- at 8 am, at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota Hotel, awareness ences listen closer to a and will run all day until 5 •How to market your business and conservation message when an animal ambas- pm. Students receive a shows sador shares the stage. text book for future refer- •Valuable tips to improve your show Good ambassadors are the ence, take a multiple and set yourself apart from your compe- product of careful choos- choice test, and receive a tition ing and behavioral condi- certificate suitable for •How to speak with a variety of people tioning. Effective conser- framing upon successful completion of the course. in a professional manner, from the vation presentations incor- porate messaging that Sign up online at the media to your audience relates to the audience, FCF website or use the •How to maintain and grow a healthy such as - How does saving Ocelot ambassador, registration form included business wildlife benefit society? Chochi. with the Journal.

14 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 60, Issue 4 • Oct.-Dec. 2016 The Saddest Day On Earth – Just The Beginning By Karen, contributor at www.ProtectThe- young boys, reported an alarming experi- It is in this same way animal rights Harvest.com ence when attending the circus the other extremists also disregard the domestica- day in Colmar, Alsace, France. Joylon tion of other animals, for example, dogs January 14th was the “saddest day on and her children are frequent circus-goers. and horses. Draft horses and Shetland earth,” as Ringling Brothers Circus She said that in the past it would be com- ponies were designed to plow the fields announced the closure of a 142 year-old mon to see three to four animal rights pro- and work, pulling heavy loads. The Ara- tradition. This is just the beginning of testors at a circus. On this day, after the bian horse was bred for beauty, endurance, increasing trouble from animal rights Ringling Brother’s announcement, she and the desert environment. Dogs were extremist groups. If you have followed saw approximately 50 protestors holding bred to pull sleds in the snow, to find peo- the story of Ringling Brothers in recent banners. They were lining both sides of ple, to work as guardians, to hunt, and so years, it is easy to track the events that the road outside the entrance to the circus. on. None of this is relevant to these lead to this. She feels the sudden jump in number of extremists. It does not matter. They want The attacks on Ringling Brothers are protestors is a direct result of the Ringling to end animal ownership. Those of us many and varied and come from a number Brother’s announcement, because it who exhibit or compete with animals are of animal rights extremist groups, includ- proved that constant harassment worked among their many targets. ing the Humane Society of the United to close the World’s Greatest Show. Animal rights extremists have a skewed States, PETA, the ASPCA, and others. In the minds of animal rights extrem- view of reality and what is in the best The Humane Society of the United States ists, no animal should be owned, used for interest of animals. They are trapped in has a lobbying machine pushing to create a purpose, or exhibited. THEY MAKE ideology. The real truth, science, and laws and regulations that suit their extrem- NO DISTINCTIONS. It does not register facts mean absolutely nothing to them. ist agenda. There are animal rights sym- with them that Asian elephants used in the They have no care or thought for the con- pathizers in politics, working to change circus have worked among people for sequences of their actions. They are not city ordinances that have made it impossi- thousands of years. According to concerned about how domesticated ani- ble for the circus to perform in those mar- Wikipedia, the first historical domestica- mals, who rely on humans, will survive kets. There have been frivolous lawsuits tion of elephants was recorded in Harap- once they “set them free.” based on false charges that have lasted pan times; “The earliest indications of The extremists that have been attacking years in length. There was the counter captive use of Asian elephants are engrav- the circus are interconnected groups. suit filed by Feld Entertainment, the par- ings on seals of the Indus Valley civiliza- Don’t forget that these very same groups ent company of Ringling Brothers, against tion dated to the third millennium BC.” are the ones attacking carriage horses, the Humane Society of the United States, These extremists disregard the fact that in pony rides, horse shows, rodeos, dog and the ASPCA, and other co-defendants, for their native lands, Asian elephants still cat breeders, animal agriculture, and more. bribery of false witnesses and racketeering work and live with people. Elephants are They feel righteous and now they believe (RICO Act). Then there are the ongoing used in logging, agriculture, as transporta- their actions are vindicated by the closure protests and general, constant harassment. tion, and in the military. They are also of the circus. This closure will impact Despite the HSUS, the ASPCA, and other ignoring the fact that Ringling Brothers animal owners everywhere. It could be a co-defendants settling the RICO suit to a has the largest herd in North America, and rough ride for us in the coming months. combined amount of $25 million, this clo- are actively involved in conservation at Please help support animal owners and the sure is a very big win for these extremist their Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey organizations that are fighting back groups. They are celebrating. They are Center for Elephant Conservation. There against their attacks. charged up. they perform ground-breaking research in We need to stick together to protect our Joylon Jamison, a French mother of two assisted reproduction in Asian elephants. way of life, our rights, and our heritage. Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary By Nancy Nallin more. There is even a beautiful manmade hails from generations of animal trainers pool full of Japanese koi fish, whose prior and entertainers. The Rosaire family is Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctu- home was destined to be filled known worldwide ary, located in Sarasota, Florida, is the in with concrete within days for their special permanent, loving home to over 150 ani- of their rescue by B.C.H. staff connection with all mals. Among the residents are fifty big and volunteers. animals and their cats ranging from bobcats and servals, to The founder and president lifetime dedication lions, tigers, ligers, and even a tigon. In of the sanctuary, Kay Rosaire, to the care and addition, there are a multitude of other training of animals animals that were in need, such as four- Kay Rosaire grew up using positive rein- teen bears of many varieties, small and around animals and, in forcement tech- large primates, exotic and domestic hoofs- the 1970s, she began per- niques. The “new tock, birds, small exotic mammals, and forming with big cats, like revolution” of this Munchie pictured here.

15 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 special ability with them. has the opportunity to inspire the audience While not on tour in 1973, Kay to truly care for all animals. His relation- acquired property in Sarasota to house her ship with the big cats he presents and his family of large felines and, in 1987, start- comedic approach bring a new respect for ed offering a safe and permanent home to the need to preserve these amazing big other big cats in need. Over the years, the cats. Clayton’s lovely wife, Danielle, han- need for rescue increased and, by necessi- dles the group tours, and their two ty, the Big Cat Habitat had to grow with it. adorable children, Ella and Clayton Increasing costs for housing, care, and Junior, although youngsters, are eagerly feeding brought about the need to become waiting in the wings for the time they can a 501(c)(3) “Not for Profit” in order to carry on the family tradition. meet the needs of the ever increasing ani- The animal demonstrations also include mal population. an ever-changing program of animal At present, the Big Cat Habitat and species presented mainly by other mem- Gulf Coast Sanctuary has become one of bers of the Rosaire family, including the premier animal attractions in Florida, Kay’s sister, Linda, with an exotic bird and has touched the hearts of a multitude of visitors through their free “edutainment” performances Outdoor habitats give the cats plen- with the animals. These programs ty of room to run, keeping them highlight the importance of the healthy and happy. Clayton visits human/animal connection and help his best buddy, Handsome. educate the public on the important differences between “animal type of training is not new to Kay or any rights” groups and “animal advo- of the Rosaire family, as they have always cates.” Part of the sanctuary’s had a kind and gentle way of handling and mission is to encourage people to training animals. become proactive in the protection Having grown up with a variety of ani- of animals in captivity and in the mals and working with her family in the wild, while still maintaining the entertainment field for many years, Kay ever important bond that humans had an affinity for big cats. In the 1970s, have with animals. Kay began training and performing with In following their mission to Big Cat Habitat lives up to its name, provid- big cats of all varieties. Her love for these promote the human/animal bond, ing large, enriched environments for its beautiful animals and her special talent B.C.H. added an amazing opportu- residents to enjoy. with them led her around the world, and nity for visitors with a “Walk on she has won many awards recognizing her the Wild Side.” This shaded walkway show, niece, Dallas, with super-talented allows the public to stroll safely between rescued dogs, and frequent visits from the outdoor habitats of the big cats. They “Chance the Chimp” with his human can be just feet away from the fabulous mom, Pamela Rosaire. All members of felines while they are playing in their the family are involved in the sanctuary, pools or lounging contentedly in the sun. as animals are a lifetime commitment for Often the tigers will begin a rousing all of them. Ellian Rosaire takes time game of tag to the delight of their visitors. away from her riding academy to provide In other areas of the facility, visitors can physical maintenance (deworming, etc.) actually take the opportunity to feed a for all the hoofstock, including the camels tiger or a bear a treat in a safe and fun and zebra. No family has ever been more way. These types of interactive experi- deeply involved with the hands-on care of ences are not only beneficial to the ani- animals than they are. mals in the form of enrichment, but bring With the close involvement of the an even greater appreciation for animals Rosaire family and the responsible and to those who participate. The hands-on dedicated group of professional animal petting zoo also reinforces the public’s caregivers the sanctuary employs, the ani- regard for animals. mals are in the best hands and the visitors Kay Rosaire’s son, Clayton, is the chief are always in a safe and family-friendly operating officer and is hands-on with the environment. With the additional help of daily care, feeding, and maintaining of the many volunteers, the facility is always a animals and the ongoing care of the facili- clean and happy place for families, school This manmade watercourse is con- ty itself. Perhaps his most important role groups, and animal lovers from all over structed inside the serval habitat. is in the training demonstrations, where he the world to visit.

16 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 FCF ANNUAL CONVENTION MEETS AT HYATT REGENCY IN SARASOTA, FLORIDA! Join with other caregivers, conservationists, and feline admirers Mon- day, July 24th, through Thursday, July 27th, 2017. Florida, the premiere vacation destination, is also the setting for this year’s FCF Convention. Discover the beauty and energy of Sarasota, a beautiful bayside city, during your stay at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. We’ve stayed at a lot of nice hotels over the years, but this year will top all other experiences! With a dramatic bayside setting and modern amenities, the Hyatt Regency Sarasota hotel is eco-friendly and the perfect start for the very best that Florida has to offer, from natural wonders, to unique culinary surprises and cultural discoveries. It’s the perfect blend of a beautiful waterfront setting, welcoming service, and the comforts of home. The award-winning Hyatt Regency Sarasota overlooks a private 32-slip marina. Take a swim and soak up the Florida sunshine in its lagoon-style pool with tropical surroundings, or relax and soak in the 12-person whirlpool spa. The sparkling white beaches of the Gulf of Mexico are just 20 minutes away, and Hyatt offers daily shuttles to Lido Beach, downtown Sarasota, and St. Armand’s Circle. Enjoy dining at one of Hyatt’s restaurants. The Currents is a tranquil, one-of-a-kind experience offered by the lagoon pool and beautiful sun- deck, with stunning views of the marina. Indulge in great drinks and delicious food in this inviting atmosphere. Or savor a tropical cocktail at the Hurricane Hut as you relax beside the luxurious pool, surrounded by cascading waterfalls, lush tropical plants, and waving palm trees. Hyatt Regency knows how to spoil its patrons, and FCF members attending Convention can enjoy the following complimentary perks and premium amenities that will make you want to arrive a day early on Sunday, and treat yourself to some personal R & R. Daily cold towels and popsicles poolside will keep you hydrated and cool. Pool toys, including water floats, snorkel, fins and masks, will add a splash of fun to your afternoon. Watersports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and paddle boating, are available right at the Hyatt Marina and connect you to Sarasota Bay. Use of bicycles and helmets are offered so you can bike the hotel grounds and the Sarasota nature trails. Use of fishing poles and bait are available so you can catch a big one swimming right off the marina. 20% discount off greens fees at IMG Academy Golf Club for your day off. Every spacious guest room has amazing views of the marina. Immerse yourself in the comfort of well-appointed, stylishly designed 390-square-foot bayside accommodations. The contemporary décor exudes a casually sophisticated "Florida chic" feel. These spacious accommodations feature deluxe amenities to enhance your stay; a king or two double-sized Hyatt Grand Beds®, a generous work desk, safe large enough for a laptop, 47-inch HD TV, alarm clock radio, complimentary wireless Internet access, and redesigned bathrooms with designer tile and deluxe Portico bath products. The FCF special room rate is only $110 a night double occupancy, $120 triple, or $130 four people. Self-parking is complimentary for FCF attendees. Be sure to book your room now before the FCF block is full. This special FCF Convention rate ends

17 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017

July 10th. This discounted rate is good from Sunday, July 23rd, through Thursday, July 28th. Come on Sunday to take advantage of the many local recreational activi- ties available.

Hyatt Regency is a pet friendly hotel and our exotic kittens (under 20 pounds) are welcome for an additional fee of $25 per room. Pets will enjoy a cat scooper and treats. These will be placed in your first floor room upon arrival. Inform the hotel you’ll have a pet (or pets) staying with you at least three days in advance of your arrival. For further information, please contact the hotel directly at 1-888- 421-1442.

Florida Wildlife and Fish Department requires out-of-state exotic cats can only be brought into Florida by persons holding a valid Florida class I, II, or III wildlife license and, additionally, you will need to apply for an import permit. A Florida exhibition license fee is $150 annually. Import permits have no fee. Licenses require documentation of 1,000 hours experience, and take about two months to process. Your import permit application should be applied for six weeks in advance.

FCF HEADS TO SARASOTA FOR SUMMER FUN!

Plan your summer vacation around the 2017 FCF Convention at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, located at 1000 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, Florida!

Monday, July 24th, kicks off this feline extravaganza with the teaching of two valuable continuing educational courses at the Hyatt Regency; the Basic Exotic Feline Husbandry Course and the Wildlife Conservation Educators Course. Each course is 8 hours, beginning at 8 am. Tuesday, July 25th, at 9 am, the annual board meeting of the FCF Directors is held. Members are welcome to attend and listen. Convention registration opens at 2 pm, in the FCF Hospitality Suite. Drop off your donated items for the silent auction, spend the afternoon networking with old friends and new, and interact with exotic kittens on display. Enjoy libations from the cash bar, followed by a delicious buffet dinner. The annual FCF membership meeting concludes the first day of convention. Wednesday morning at 9:30 am, we board the bus for Big Cat Habitat, one of the premier animal attractions in Florida. We’ll have the place to ourselves in the morning and watch a special showing of their ‘edutainment” performances with the animals. This program highlights the importance of the human/animal connection and explains the differences between “animal rights” groups and “animal advocates.” Clayton Rosaire will perform with lion, tiger, and liger, demonstrating their athletic abilities and big cat sense of humor. Big Cat Habitat is home to plenty of big and smaller felines, as well as bears, birds, primates, and petting zoo animals. Each species has spe- cially constructed enclosures with plenty of space and enrichments. After touring the animal habitats, we’ll conclude our visit by attending the “Parrots in Par- adise” show. Amazing parrots will display intelligence and strength in this educational talk. Then we board the bus for our second field trip of the day, the Ringling Brothers Circus Museum, a top- rated Sarasota attraction. We’ll have two and a half hours to explore three different exhibits: The Circus Museum is a must-see. Walk the wire. Squeeze into a clown car. Snap photos with a fero- cious (faux) tiger. Thrill to it all; the parade wagons, Clayton gets a raspy tongue kiss from Handsome, one of the posters, the glittering costumes, and the cannon the stars of the Big Cat Habitat shows. that shot daring performers through the air. Wonder at the must-be-seen-to-be-believed 44,000-piece Howard

18 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017

Bros. Circus Model and the Greatest Show on Earth Mural, celebrating the entertainment that has delighted packed houses in great cities and small towns across America for generations. Bayfront Gardens is a living treasure. Take in Mable’s Rose Garden. Enjoy the shade of majestic banyan trees. Delight in the whimsy of the Dwarf Garden. Be refreshed by cooling breezes that blow along the Bayfront Promenade and Millennium Tree Trail. The Ringling Museum of Art is a collection of fas- cinating exhibitions from around the world and classi- cal sculptures that fill the grand courtyard. Our bus will bring us back to the hotel around 5 pm. You have the evening free to explore Sarasota, the beaches, or hang at the Hyatt’s tropical waterfall at the pool. Then make dinner plans on your own. Raj is a rare liger, part lion, part tiger, and incredibly beautiful. Thursday morning starts with educational speakers covering everything from conservation to feline husbandry. You’ll have the afternoon free to relax or take in Sarasota’s tourist attractions before we gather again Thursday evening for cocktails and a banquet dinner. The annual fundraiser auction, featuring donated items from FCF members and sponsors, is a light-hearted and funny conclusion to the convention. Be sure to donate something for the auction and then get out your credit card and start bidding!

Convention Registration is $200 a person before July 14th, and $235 after. Children under 12 are free and kids ages 13 to 18 are $150. Register online and pay with PayPal at: http://www.felineconservation.org/convention_registration_form.html

Hotel Reservations can be made online by using the direct link to the FCF Group rate on the FCF Hotel Information webpage at: http://www.felineconservation.org/2017_convention_hotel.html

We’ll have a couple of hours to explore the “Greatest Free time at the Hyatt means time for soaking up Show On Earth” museum, The Ringling, which will be the sun and swimming under the waterfalls of the only reminder of a century-old family favorite.

19 Danny Waldo’s bobcat, Gibsy, stares at the Cat and dog face off. That’s Max and cameraman. buddy, Milo the Rhodesian ridgeback Wildlife and Environmental Conserva Photo by Patty Perry. Your Best Shots

Gioranni is gi-normous! Anne-Laure Michelis took this photo of the stand- Anne-Laure Michelis photographed Bella jaguar ing tiger at McCarthy’s Wildlife relaxing on her stone couch at Panther Ridge Sanctuary. Conservation Center. d his k, at tion. Liberty rubs faces with her owner Doug Ursula is a beautiful serval. Photo Kildsig. by her owner, Shelby Harrison. s!

Courtney Frenchak takes a selfie Olivia, the melanistic Geoffroy’s, lives with Chris with Eurasian lynx Kitty Pat, Berry. who’s all grown up now. Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 River Legacy Park Bobcats “I could have touched wild bobcats a half Stacey. Stacey noted to me that the a dozen times.” -quoted from Facebook unlikely pair of cat and dog species was the catalyst for a chance meeting By Lynn Culver of Missouri natives. Stacey didn’t know anything about An FCF member gave me a call and why these bobcats seem so tolerant of wanted me to check out YouTube videos the humans in the park, but she has of River Legacy Park bobcats. He said it noticed that they do have a sense of appeared they were self-taming, and he personal space and, while they will thought it would make an interesting Jour- allow people to approach, or stop and nal article for FCF members. I did, and I watch, should someone come too found plenty of evidence of these trusting close, they will hiss and tell you to bobcats, with videos, photographs, and keep your distance. Her latest visit personal testimonies all posted online. I this February produced a couple of contacted each person I could by email photos of a female she recognized as and asked if they would let me interview the same one she has seen with kit- them and publish photos. Here is what I tens in previous years. learned from my investigation. Ross Beckman visited by phone Stacey Halpin Taylor is a regular at with me and gave me some back- Legacy River Park. An avid cyclist, she ground to the River Legacy Park. visits as often as she can and sees bobcats Ross attended the grand opening in almost every time in the spring, summer, 1991. Ross recalled that grass seed and fall, and about 65% of the time in the had been planted for the event; how- January 28, 2015 - Check out this beauti- winter. She told me that one of her first ever, high winds blew it all away and ful bobcat picture a park user sent us visits was about two years ago. She came when the park was opened, it was just today! It's a great reminder that we share upon a bobcat and a coyote lying next to dirt. The park does not have much the park and trails with a variety of each other in the bike path. Concerned, woods; it is actually an eight mile wildlife! If you are so lucky to see a bob- she decided to turn around, and when she long bike path along the Trinity cat in the park - do as this park user did - came upon another cyclist, she warned River, which runs from Dallas to enjoy the sight from a distance; take a him of the wildlife ahead. He assured her Houston. But the park borders a picture if you can; and then let it pass or it was no problem and, bolstered by his large natural area called the Viridian go by slowly without cornering or both- confidence, she followed him back where Preserved Land. ering the animal. they stopped and watched the pair. Turns He personally began sighting bob- ings back around the time of the opening. out he was a Missouri native, as was cats about five years ago. He does not Then Ross let me in on a little known recall there being any sight- detail; one of the main reasons these bob-

Ross Beckman has been visiting River Legacy Park since its grand opening and this is just one of the many bobcats he has photographed over Stacie Halpin Taylor watched this female bobcat walk the the years. hand rails on her latest visit this past February.

22 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 cats are so commonly seen that, to appease the lady, park offi- according to Ross, is that a cials set up some bobcat traps and retired veterinarian feeds them signs explaining what they were raw chicken. Ross had the vet- for. erinarian’s name and phone But, for the time being, visitors number because he used to fre- to this unique urban refugeum in quent the park, and the veteri- the heart of the Dallas/Fort Worth narian asked him to keep track metroplex are seeing bobcats and of sightings and report back to even coyotes that are unfazed by him. Ross wrote on the calen- the presence of humans. It is pos- dar every day he saw bobcats sible that the original bobcat kitten and it added up to 28 sightings has grown up and reared her off- in a year. Ross says in one out spring to tolerate humans, and of every three visits, he would they have grown up and taught see a bobcat. The most bobcats their offspring to tolerate humans. he ever saw were a group of If this veterinarian’s fostering five that strolled by his bike on occurred around 2005, by the time a day when he did not bring his Ross began seeing the bobcats in camera or camcorder! Last Ross Beckman photographs one of the park’s bob- 2011, and reporting them to the spring, the Dallas area experi- cats as it strolls along the bike path. veterinarian, they could have been enced serious flooding, and third generation offspring, and Ross believes that might have killed some rect, and I have no reason to believe other- this would support the theory that this of the Legacy bobcats. wise, there are some extenuating circum- learned behavior is continuing to be According to Ross, the story behind the stances to the apparent “taming” of a pop- picked up by each successive generation veterinarian is that the good doctor found ulation of wild bobcats. Though I asked and is seemingly spreading throughout the a mother bobcat shot dead with an arrow, Ross to contact the veterinarian and give River Legacy Park population. with her lone kitten nearby. The veteri- him my contact information so I could I spoke with another park visitor, David narian foster-raised the orphan and speak with him, I have not been called, Randall, who is familiar with the area and released her back into the park as a young and I suspect the vet is declining to come has been visiting since high school, which adult. This veterinarian has monitored out of the shadows. is prior to it even being designated as a this bobcat’s progress and he knows when During an interview with another park park. Randall says the section where bob- she delivers and has kittens. According to visitor named Chris Jackson, I was told cats are sighted regularly is the eastern Ross, he has seen the veterinarian make that some folks have reported seeing raw part of the park. Randall shared one his bobcat calls and bobcats will acknowl- chicken laid out in the park, so, if not left account, saying, “My wife and I were edge this vocalization and walk up to him. by the veterinarian, then others are feed- walking the trail and it came out of the So apparently, if this information is cor- ing the carnivores. Unfortunately, habitu- bushes and followed us. Crossed the trail, ating wildlife to food handouts can lead to checked us out, and continued to the a disaster if some bobcat ever decides the food is not forth- coming fast enough or if some jerk ever decides these are domesticated bobcats and tries to catch one for a pet. Ross told me of one guy he knows who drives a three- wheeled bike and he stopped videoing the bobcats because it was so common nobody wanted to see them anymore. And another lady he spoke with on the bike trail told him she had her camera knocked out of her hand by a bobcat. So far, according to Ross, the only reported incident is one case of a bobcat chasing a lady’s Chihuahua dog. Fortu- Keeping peace between man and nately, a man heard the lady beast requires some respect for the screaming and he got the dog Delbert Olsen caught this bobcat carrying her wildlife that call this refuge home. away from the bobcat. After dinner in 2008.

23 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 water.” He also told me he saw a moun- down the middle tain lion once. of the trail. As I passed, she gave me a slight Lots of Visitors see Bobcats at River glance and strolled on by. Legacy Park I had my camera phone so By 2008, it was already pretty estab- I turned around and lished that visitors might see wild bobcats, caught up to her, pulled up so the park developed signage and infor- right next to her and took mation to educate visitors on proper bob- a picture. She gave a cat etiquette: glance as though to say, Bobcats are typically solitary ani- “Are you done?” and con- mals, but are most likely to be seen tinued her stroll. This is during early morning or late after- the sixth time I have seen noon feeding times. They are usu- a bobcat; only once have I ally well camouflaged and avoid seen a male (He was at human contact, so you are privi- least five pounds heavier Brad Barrick saw this brightly spotted bobcat in leged to see this remarkable animal than the female.). They the fall of 2008. in its natural environment at River don’t seem to mind us at Legacy Park. If you do catch a all and they are totally non-aggressive. I ing area has about nine kittens. I watched glimpse of one of the park's resi- was amazed by how beautiful they are, all of them cross the trail right in front of dent bobcats, enjoy the experience and as a cat lover (I have two); I look for- me Saturday morning around 7am. She and keep these three things in ward to seeing one or both of them each hunts east of Collins and has a den just mind: time I go to the park. west of the Collins Bridge. There are 1.) Quietly watch the animal from Delbert Olsen relayed his experience on going to be ten big kitties in that park and a distance. June 24, 2008: they don't seem to mind humans at all. 2.) Make sure the bobcat has an I was riding my bike on the east trail Brad Barrick reported in October 2008, "escape route" and do not try to around 7 pm. I had just passed under he was on the east trail walking south- corner it. Collins headed east when an approaching southwest from mile marker 5 about half 3.) Never approach a mother bob- cyclist announced she had just passed a way to mile marker 4 (just before the trail cat that has cubs. She will try to bobcat. I slowed down and came around turns westward): protect them if she feels you might a bend in the trail. Down the trail, I could It would actually have been quite easy be a threat. see a bobcat walking in my direction. I to walk right on by and not even notice the And you can always learn more stopped and got out my camera. The bob- female bobcat, even though she was lying about bobcats cat was too far only inches from the trail. In the dappled and other native away for a decent sunlight, her camouflage was startlingly animals by visit- photo, so I just effective. ing the Living stood there and She certainly didn't seem too concerned Science Center watched. As he about me or my fellow walker standing and checking approached, I next to me at the time. Even more surpris- out the exhibits could see he had a ing was her complete indifference to the and displays. very large rat bicycles whizzing by now and then. hanging from his Thankfully, no one came by/through with Legacy River mouth. To my sur- any dogs though. I somehow doubt she Park website has a prise, he continued would have been quite so accepting of bobcat blog with to walk toward me them. visitor accounts. I and passed within After "hanging about" for almost nine have copied a few two or three feet. I minutes from the time I had first walked to illustrate these took pictures as he up on her, our furry lady-friend decided special experiences approached and that she had had enough and strode impe- with bobcats. after he had riously off into the brush. Chuck Barron passed. A month later, on November 19, gave this May 24, Matt wrote this Bradley Borougerdi believed he may have 2008 account: about his July 6, sighted the same bobcat as Brad: I was riding my 2008, sightings: It was around 10 am, while my son was bike through the There is a real in Nature School at the Living Science park and straight bobcat family. The Center, I was jogging in the park. I began ahead a female (I one that walks from the entrance where the exercise Chris Jackson got this nice close up of think, she was along the east trail equipment is and continued right, passed a young bobcat during his March 2012 small) was just past Collins both bridges, and went a little further visit. strolling right towards the park- across the West Fork Bridge. On my way

24 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 A few minutes into day bike ride. It was a great day to be in my meditations, a rider the park. from behind called out July 23, 2009, Virginia Lowe had this that there was a bobcat experience: behind me. I turned, Today as we were hiking, we spotted and the bobcat was Mama bobcat with one of her babies in drifting towards me. As her mouth crossing the path! At first I it approached within thought I was hallucinating! It was a won- three feet of my side, we derful sight I will never forget! came into complete Chris Jackson founded the website contact with each other. DFWUrbanWildlife.com. He shared two As I looked into the bobcat accounts. His observation of a cat’s eyes, it briefly wild bobcat starts out with a March 14, glanced back, and then 2012, red-tailed hawk sighting. Chris went on its way, unper- writes: turbed by our meeting. I began the morning by taking a walk in I couldn’t believe how our neighborhood’s Greenbelt Park. The Bradley Borougerdi followed a bobcat for at least a close it came! As the park follows a creek which winds its way quarter of a mile before approaching within three cat approached, I stood through the subdivision. The creek is feet where the two shared eye contact. He says his still and watched its bridged by residential streets at three dif- close contact was “truly an experience that cannot every move. The most ferent locations in our neighborhood be described.” interesting aspect of the alone. back, I began a light jog, until I came encounter upon a bobcat that looks very similar to was that it didn’t seem to the one Brad has on his posting of Oct. worry about my presence, 21st. which puzzled me. The bobcat was about ten yards in front I hope others who are for- of me, and I followed it for at least a quar- tunate enough to have the ter mile, until someone came from the opportunity to stumble upon other side of the trail and forced it to go a magnificent experience into the woods. I stayed for a while, hop- such as this are wise enough ing it would return, which it did, only to to treat the animal with be sent back into the woods by a bike interest instead of fear. If we rider a few minutes later. I stood there, respect their territory, then eagerly awaiting its return, but gave up we will be able to enjoy their hope after about ten minutes and contin- presence for years to come. ued back to the West Fork Bridge, where I It is truly an experience that usually stop to gaze down the Trinity for a cannot be described. while. January 11, 2009, the Sanborn family Chris Jackson sighted two bobcats during his reported the fol- October visit; the second was carrying a freshly lowing story: killed rat. My family spotted at least three bobcat As I approached the Flowers Drive cubs, maybe four, playing just Bridge, I noticed a red-tailed hawk off the bike trail near mile perched on the roof of the house nearest marker 5 around 5 pm. The the creek. I had my camera with me and fourth cat may have been the wanted to take pictures, but the weather momma cat, but it was too far was overcast, the light was poor, and the away to tell. My 9-year-old distances were too great, so I didn’t even son who has keen eyesight was try. the first to spot them. The cubs Still, there was something about the were just frolicking in the hawk that intrigued me. The big bird grass and tree stumps next to seemed to be studying something down in the trail. They stopped occa- the creek bed and out of my line of sight. I sionally to look at us curiously, decided to move in closer for a look. If In October of 2012, Chris Jackson noticed a but then went about their play- there was something interesting going on bobcat was following a dirt road near the east ing and romping. We also down by the creek, then great. If not, then pumping station several hundred yards from spotted several armadillo and I hoped to at least get close enough to his position. an opossum during our Satur- take some pictures of the hawk.

25 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 Well, the hawk didn’t cooperate. moved onto the road behind him. Red-tailed hawks get antsy easy, and A close look at this bobcat shows this one flew away before I had even that he possesses a vividly spotted made it to the bridge. coat. This effectively differentiates Plan B was to try and find what- him from a second bobcat I saw on ever it was in the creek bed that had this day, which had fur of a much the hawk’s attention. So, I crossed more uniform color. the Flowers Drive Bridge and I came across the second bobcat walked over the waist high stone several hours later as she patrolled wall that ran along its length. Qui- along one of the dirt roads that runs etly, I leaned over for a look. near the east side of the property. There in the reeds, just beside the As I watched, this cat moved down slowly flowing water of the creek, into one of the drying beds and sat a young bobcat! The cat had its began hunting in the tall weeds back turned to me and was unaware along its perimeter. of my presence. Furthermore, the It wasn’t long before she came bobcat’s attention was focused on One of the Legacy River Park bobcats rests on back out holding a large rat in her the reeds in front of him. There was the bike path and yawns. Photo by Stacey mouth. some kind of prey animal, possibly a Halpin Taylor. The bobcat then carried the rat small bird, in a tangle of vegetation, across two of the drying beds before and the bobcat was focused on it at the son tells of bobcats observed at the Vil- stopping in a clearing. There, she set the exclusion of all else. lage Creek Drying Beds in Arlington, rat down and then began calling out. That then is the comedy of this situa- Texas: Sometimes she would walk over to this or tion. The song bird was being sized up by Strangely, I spotted the first bobcat just that other nearby clearing and start mew- the bobcat, which in turn was being eyed minutes after photographing a coyote in ing again. I interpreted this as her trying as a possible meal by the red-tailed hawk! one of the drying beds. The bobcat was to call her cubs to dinner. Bird < Cat < Bird. The bobcat was small, following a dirt road near the east pump- I watched for a little over a half hour, only slightly larger than a house cat, but ing station several hundred yards/meters but unfortunately no other bobcats even so he probably did not have much to from my position. At this distance, it was appeared. Eventually, the bobcat picked fear from the hawk. Still, I got the very hard to tell for sure what kind of animal I up the rat and carried it off away from my real impression that the hawk was giving was seeing. There was a white Ford SUV position. I could still hear her vocaliza- the bobcat some serious consideration. parked nearby, and at first I assumed he tions as I walked away. Well, distracted as he was, the bobcat was a dog belonging to the owners of that gave me plenty of time to bring my camera vehicle. It wasn’t until I had a look River Legacy Bobcats on YouTube to bear. I was very excited. This was my through my telephoto lens that I was able The bobcats are still making themselves first encounter with a wild bobcat that to recognize that it was a bobcat I was visible to visitors. There are plenty of amounted to more than just a fleeting observing. videos on YouTube where you can watch glimpse. I started taking pictures, and it The cat continued down the road for the these amazing felines strolling casually was only after this that the bobcat became width of a drying bed, and only ditched among the cyclists and hikers. One such aware of my presence. Alerted by the into the grass because the white SUV had video was shot by Neil Houters on Sep- sound of the shutter, tember 22, 2013, showing him and other the bobcat turned cyclists paused next to a sitting bobcat, and looked right into discussing the feline. my camera's lens. We continued like https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D2yr8 this for nearly 30 OfqmEA seconds before the bobcat decided he There’s even a video that Jon Snow didn’t appreciate my shot on May 14, 2015, of a meeting admiration. Casual- between bobcat and coyote. Fox 4 News ly, the bobcat moved ran the video on their nightly news show. into the reeds and After the bobcat challenged a coyote in brush as I desperate- the mid-day, he strolled right up to cyclist ly tried to keep the Jon Snow, who had dismounted and had to camera on him. After use his bike to keep between him and the just a short while, he curious cat. had completely van- ished. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGtni- And on October On May 14, 2015, Jon Snow videoed an encounter jq6C7o 16, 2012, Chris Jack- between a bobcat and a coyote in broad daylight.

26 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center By Shelleen Mathews funds were exhausted and there was debate over what to do with the now Each cold and rainy winter in Wash- tame animals. Releasing them into the ington State, my husband, Mark, and I wild was out of the question. When the need to get away for a short time to film crew left, Matola remained with the somewhere warmer and tropical. The 17 animals (an ocelot, a puma, a jaguar, past couple of winters we have visited and several exotic birds) and started a the jungles and beaches of Belize. makeshift zoo, using the animals' enclo- Belize, formerly British Honduras, is a sures as exhibits, to generate funding for country on the eastern coast of Central their care. It became apparent that America. Belize is bordered on the Belizeans were largely unfamiliar with north by Mexico, on the south and west the native animals of Belize, and had by Guatemala, and on the east by the many misconceptions and superstitions Caribbean Sea. Its mainland is about about them. The zoo's focus then shifted 180 miles long and 68 miles wide. The Belize Zoo has plenty of native cats, to educating residents and visitors alike This January, we definitely wanted to including this ocelot. about the native wildlife of Belize. include the Belize Zoo and Tropical After garnering local support and both Education Center in our trip. They are classroom/lecture hall, a library, kitchen, local and foreign donations, the zoo was located some 29 miles west of Belize City, and dining area. TEC has dormitories relocated to its present 29-acre site in on the Western Highway. Set in 29 acres, where large groups of visiting wildlife 1991. Keeping to its goal of bringing visi- the zoo was founded in 1983, by Sharon specialists can stay. When we visited, tors closer to Belize's natural heritage, the Matola. It is home to more than 175 ani- there was a group from the Milwaukee zoo only houses native animals. No zoo mals of about 48 species, all native to Zoo who were training and working with animal has ever been taken from the wild. the staff at the zoo. It also boasts Zoo residents were either people’s pets, several private accommodations donated to the zoo, injured and brought in for visitors like us. We stayed in for healing and rehabilitation, born at the one of the Pond Houses, built over zoo, or sent to the zoo from another zoo- a natural pond inhabited by fish, logical facility. turtles and "Pirate Pete," a one- Our wonderful day at the zoo included eyed crocodile. The surrounding several hours with founder Sharon Matola. jungle teemed with birds, reptiles, Her connection with each of the animals and amphibians. was astounding and heartwarming for us. The next day was our zoo day. Being "cat" people, it was especially The dense, natural vegetation is rewarding to meet the two jaguarundis, separated only by gravel trails two margays, two ocelots, two pumas, and through the jungle. The Belize many jaguars - not that hand-feeding Zoo and Tropical Education Center tapirs, macaws, and toucans wasn't fun, receives over 68,000 visitors annu- too! One of 18 jaguars labeled “problem ani- ally, with 15,000 being mals” and brought into zoo captivity for students, teachers, and safe keeping. parents. It focuses on educating visitors about Belize. The natural environment of Belize the wildlife of Belize, is left entirely intact within the zoo. through encountering the animals Upon arrival at the Belize Airport, we in their natural habitat. The aim were greeted by an employee of the Tropi- is to instill appreciation and cal Education Center, where we had reser- pride, and a desire to protect and vations for the three days we had set aside conserve Belize's natural for our zoo visit. The Tropical Education resources. In 1983, a filmmaking Center(TEC)/Zoo Lodge was developed team, headed by cinematographer on the premise that education and aware- Richard Foster (who later ness are fundamental to wildlife conserva- became a resident of Belize), tion, and therefore provides tourists, stu- came to Belize to create a docu- dents, and researchers the opportunity to mentary entitled "Selva Verde" lodge in the "wild" savannah environment (Spanish for green forest). Sharon Matola founded Belize Zoo after a of the Central Belize Biological Corridor. Sharon Matola accompanied the film project concluded and 17 animal movie The TEC main building is equipped with a crew as an assistant and animal stars were now tame. She’s feeding treats to caretaker. At the end of filming, a large tapir.

27 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 Latest Legislation in the States By Amy Flory wild animals [cheetah, clouded leopards mals other than domestic animals or farm (both), jaguar, leopard, lion, mountain animals. The following states have introduced bills lion, snow leopard, tiger and hybrids; cer- Status: Referred to Environment, Natural pertaining to felines in 2017. tain bears, certain venomous snakes, croc- Resources and Agriculture 1/23. odilians, non-human primates, gray and GENERAL BANS OR BAN ON PUB- red wolves, hyenas, and aardwolves] and NEW JERSEY LIC CONTACT bans direct public contact. Exemptions A 2591 Imposes civil penalty for the exhi- ALABAMA are zoos and circuses that meet require- bition or use in performance of a living HB 172 Animals, required rabies vaccines ments, research facility, certain wildlife bear, elephant, lion, or tiger for Canidae or Felidae, further provided sanctuaries, vet, law enforcement, game for, possession of certain Canidae or Feli- warden, temporary transport, and animal Description: Bans performances with dae, possession of certain large Felidae or shelters. those animals. wolves, prohibited under certain condi- Status: Introduced and referred to Natural Status: No action this year. tions, penalties Resources, Agriculture and Mining Description: Allows Felidae and Canidae 2/24/17. NEW YORK if there is an FDA approved vaccine S 276 Restricts the use of exotic and wild instead of just USDA, adds further restric- SOUTH CAROLINA animals in traveling circuses and shows tions for those exempt from the current H 3531 Large Cats, Apes, and Bears Description: Prohibits using wild or exotic law as it pertains to large Felidae (tiger, Description: Bans possession, sale, breed- animal in animal act if the animal was lion, leopard, snow leopard, clouded leop- ing of large cats (lion, tiger, leopard, traveling 30 days prior. ard, jaguar, cheetah, or cougar or hybrids) jaguar, cheetah, snow leopards, and cloud- Status: Referred to Agriculture 1/4/17. and wolves. ed leopard), non-native bears and non- Status: Had 2nd reading in House 2/23. human great apes, but removes ban on PENNSYLVANIA public contact with animals with no SB 248 An Act amending Title 18 INDIANA USDA vaccine. Exemptions are incorpo- (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylva- HB 1332 Dangerous Wild Animals rated nonprofit animal protection organi- nia Consolidated Statutes, in riot, disor- Description: Bans dangerous wild animals zations, agency, animal control or law derly conduct and related offenses, pro- (non-human primates, lions, tigers, leop- enforcement, veterinary hospitals and viding for the offense of use of live ani- ards, clouded leopards, snow leopards, employees, research facility, USDA mals in traveling exhibitions jaguars, cheetahs, mountain lions and A/B/C, circuses, temporary transport. Description: Prohibits using exotic ani- hybrids, wolves, bears, hyenas, and aard- Status: Passed House 2/1/17. Referred to mals or exotic wildlife (all non-native wolves) except research facility, certain Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources wild animals and hybrids) in animal act if wildlife sanctuaries, incorporated nonprof- 2/6. the animal was traveling 15 days prior. it animal protection organizations, vet, law Status: Referred to Judiciary 1/27/17. enforcement, agency, temporary transport, TEXAS or zoological parks or circuses that meet HB 2274 Relating to registration and reg- OTHER BILLS requirements. ulation of dangerous wild animals; provid- INDIANA Status: FAILED committee deadline and ing penalties, creating a criminal offense, HB 1550 Exotic animals and endangered likely dead. and authorizing a fee species Description: Bans cheetah, clouded leop- Description: Allows captive breeding of KANSAS ard, cougar, jaguar, leopard, lion, snow foreign endangered species if not danger- HB 2276/SB 162 Dangerous regulated leopard, tiger, hybrids, bears, and great ous or invasive. animals apes, AND repeals current law (Subchap- Status: FAILED committee deadline and Description: Adds non-human primates ter E). Exemptions are government agen- likely dead. and pure wolves to the list and revises the cies, research facility, USDA A/B/C, cer- current grandfather requirements. tain wildlife sanctuaries, veterinary hospi- MAINE Status: HB 2276 – Referred to Federal and tal, rehabilitators, current college or uni- SP 91 An Act To Require Permits for State Affairs. versity mascot that does not allow direct Wildlife in Captivity and Notification of SB 162 – Referred to Agriculture and Nat- contact, animal shelter. the Escape of Exotic Wildlife in Captivity ural Resources. Status: Introduced 2/23/17. Description: Revises certain laws to apply to exotic wildlife, requires them to have NEVADA BAN ON TRAVELING ACTS global positioning device and requires AB 238 Enacts provisions relating to the MASSACHUSETTS notification of escapes to the department importation, possession, sale, transfer, and S 490 An Act relative to wild and exotic and all landowners in the area the animal breeding of dangerous wild animals animal performance prohibition could travel to. Description: Bans breeding, possession, Description: Bans performances of any Status: Referred to Inland Fisheries and sale, transfer, and import of dangerous wild or exotic animals, which are any ani- Wildlife 1/31. Hearing 2/28.

28 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017

The LIOC newsletters I received from the children of Otto Regalado were those of the 1970s. Cherished by Otto for more than 40 years, they are added to the historic collection of LIOC newsletters. That Otto saved these newsletters for nearly five decades is a testament to the importance of information shared in LIOC newsletters, providing husbandry knowledge in the days before the Internet. In honor of this thoughtful gift, I have chosen to reprint an article from Otto's personal collection.

Blast from the Past: Peggy and Pussy – Unintentional Mothers Long Island Ocelot Club Newsletter and understanding, he has turned into a band and strangers, Ocel being the perfect, Volume 2 Number 3 loving, trusting creature, and we got very good-natured, and completely tame one. May/June 1976 attached to each other in a short period of He indeed is so ideal that I hesitate show- time. ing him to other people inquiring about By Heidi Fahrenholz I lost Once in December, 1975, to anes- exotics, since they might think all exotics Rinqweg, Germany thesia. He was bitten on the leg, which are that way. was broken by an ocelot I boarded. The The other cats in our family are Ali, a I never wanted to breed. In Germany, leg needed resetting several times and wild-born male (N) margay, discovered in the special circumstances rather require would not heal. He was eight years old an animal shelter in 1974, and Vince, a good homes for the when he died. wild-born adult oncilla that came shortly unwanted exotics or I miss him ter- afterward. Vince is very unusual looking the kittens that are ribly. and very much like a margay, as his mark- still imported. So I Ocel, my ings are margay, as is his long tail. His decided not to block wild-born male color is a very intense rust. On pho- any space I had avail- margay, now tographs, he was classified by Professor able with domestic- 18 pounds, and Leyhausen as being a very rare margay born kittens, as I Herbert, a from Argentina. But since his hair grows knew that I could domestic-born down his neck and not up, I know he is an never part with one of male ocelot, oncilla. Dr. Leyhausen visited last sum- my cat's offspring. now 40 mer and confirmed this and said he had My first exotic cat pounds, who not seen this subspecies before. was a rescue. "Once" was rescued Pussy, a wild-born female margay, was the oncilla came to from a fur the first girl to join our boys. I had seen me at the age of about farm, are the her in a pet shop window where she was one, and had already only ones that I displayed. For three years she had been had five "homes" got as babies. living in a cage two feet square and three before that. He had They are very feet high. Being the founder and head of never been tame, but close friends, FEW, Freundeskreis Exotischer Wild- was extremely fear- Herbert being a katzen, a society devoted to the well-being ful, shy, and suspi- Heidi Fahrenholz holds her ocelot, Her- bit difficult of exotic cats, I informed the responsible cious. But with love bert, and margay, Ocel. with my hus- authorities. With their help, Pussy came

29 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 to me in August of 1975. She could hard- human mother's milk sub- ly walk or climb, but was otherwise stitute with calcium. They healthy, and she soon caught up with the were only three weeks old others and is now the fastest of them all. when I could start feeding Next came Willie, a five-year-old intact her and she was only one male. Someone had declawed him front third the size of her brother and back. This always seems a shame and looked like a kitten when I see him carefully climbing or leav- from another litter. But ing a tree when the others just dash up and she was healthy and active, down. I had hoped to keep all my mar- her eyes opened on day gays together, but I soon had to abandon Pussy margay gives birth to a single female kitten ten, one day after her this idea since Willie was not compatible named Jeanie. brother's, but her teeth with the others. He had developed a ten- came through three days dency to bite the other cats and all became fat that she could hardly jump up and later. While Dume (they very afraid of him. down a chair. I think life in the jungle are all five weeks old now) looks like he Ali, a cat that was never easily fright- must be pretty tough under such circum- should, April looks like a two week old ened and who is much larger, urinates and stances and I wondered how she could kitten. But she is playing and enjoying defecates at the sight of Willie, so Willie have hunted and defended herself in the herself. I plan to remove Dume at six is housed on his own now, which is sad. wild having become so clumsy. It was weeks and let Peggy look after April a bit Ali and Pussy are very close friends, obvious she was to have more than one longer and hope that she gets a chance to sleeping together, washing each other and baby. catch up with the others. playing together. It is nice to see them Pussy margay came in heat every four Peggy developed a bladder weakness playing together in the garden, after think- weeks since I got her. Ali did his best, but due to enlargement of the uterus. She ing of what their lives were like a short Pussy was obviously suffering. I decided could not keep her urine and kept wetting time ago. to make a final try with Willie to see her bedding in the box. I used baby’s Pussy got very attached to me in a short whether he would get along with her when paper napkins (diapers) in the boxes, and I period of time, as did Willie, and I always she was in heat. Pussy so thoroughly dis- had to disturb Peggy and her babies about try to spend some extra time with him. liked Willie that I never dreamed she three times a day to change the bedding. I When Dr. Wolff, a LIOC member, gave would conceive under the circumstances. think it is astonishing that this cat has up her exotics when she went to Africa for His idea was that copulation might change never been a pet, and has always been an extended trip, Peggy, an 11 year old her too frequent heats into more healthy kept under zoo-like conditions, but would oncilla, and her three year old daughter intervals. On the January 11, I allowed let me do all this without getting upset as Olympia came to join Vince in the oncilla Willie into Pussy's outdoor place and let to hurt her babies. In fact, I can take the house of the garden. him be there for only 20 minutes. Then I babies out as long as one stays with her. All my cats except Willie and the oncil- found it to be too dangerous for Pussy and Dume first showed interest in meat (a las live in our house. Ocel margay and took him back to his place. After three freshly killed mouse) when he was four Herbert ocelot have the run of the house. weeks, I noticed the same symptoms in weeks old. Both oncilla kittens get meat Ali and Pussy live in a room of their own. Pussy and again I could hardly believe my now in tiny pieces and Dume produced his All the cats have large outdoor places with eyes. Pussy was also expecting. I sepa- first bowel movement at the age of 4.75 lots of grass, bushes, trees, and wading rated Ali from Pussy three weeks prior to weeks. Perhaps Peggy is not too keen on pools where they can go day or night as birth and, now, the future mothers were on potty training him now that he has eaten they please. their own. meat. I separated Olympia when she came It is hard to believe, but both cats gave Peggy is alright now; the condition into heat in order to prevent possible kits, birth on the same day. The first to arrive stopped and she uses her litter box as but I never bothered to do this with Peggy. was Peggy's son Dume, on April 3rd at 6 before. The babies are tame so far, and I I thought that, at 11 years old, a change of am. The next was Jeanie, Pussy's daugh- hope she will forgive me if I take her ownership, a new male, and a new home ter. Dume's sister arrived 24 hours later. babies much earlier than she would want would make it unlikely that she would We named her April. at the age of six weeks. conceive. She had had several litters All kittens were perfectly healthy, Pussy margay is a very touching moth- which all did not live as the male, Tao, except that April was only half the size of er. She is so fond of her baby that I do not was not separated. When Olympia was her brother. Both cats are exemplary think I can bring myself to take her baby about to be born, Tao was separated and mothers, taking good care of their babies. that early. While she allowed me to touch died during that time. Pussy margay had two nipples functioning Jeanie in the first two weeks, she would I first noticed Peggy was pregnant when and Pussy oncilla three. But Dume was not allow me any more access since Jeanie she was climbing a fence to greet me and I always fighting his sister away from the is crawling about. She jealously watches could see that her nipples were enlarged nipples and it was obvious she was not my movements and I leave her alone with and rosy. I thought it must be an error on getting enough to eat. As soon as Peggy the baby mostly in order not to upset her. her or my side and left her with the others. would let me touch the babies, I started When Jeanie was about three weeks But soon afterwards, Peggy began getting giving April additional food. I gave her old, I had made a mistake and allowed rounder, until finally one day she was so several strange people to see the baby on

30 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 the same day. While Peggy oncilla did that the baby coat falls out and the adult pleases me is that I got advice from all not mind, Pussy got upset and began coat grows in. I had never detected on over the world that I have to take the pulling out the baby’s fur. Pussy had any margay kitten that the adult coat was babies from their mothers at six weeks or never pulled out her own fur; neither have present underneath the wool-like baby they will not tame for the rest of their any of my cats. When I came back, har- fluff. I would therefore be interested to lives. As Peggy has twins, it was easier to mony was restored, but the kitten looked hear if anyone has made the same discov- take Dume away, who looks like his like a trimmed poodle. But this sad event ery in a margay kitten. I regret that I did father, also being a deep rust color, while also brought me some news. Where I not make a photo of this, but I did not April is only a little rust-colored on the expected to see the naked skin of the baby want to disturb Pussy further. Now, at head. on its back, there was a very short haired five weeks, some of the baby fluff has I think I will leave Jeanie with her coat sleek and shining showing all the grown back, but one can still see the beau- mother a little longer, hoping that a mar- markings of the future adult coat. While a tiful markings Jeanie will have when she gay’s naturally good disposition will make baby margay’s coat gives only a slight grows up. it possible to tame her. I think it is unfair idea of how the adult cat will look, much Pussy has moved into another box with to take a baby from a mother who has had unlike an ocelot kitten, I always assumed her baby since the incident and is now her so few good things in life, who has been old self again. Jeanie is a so terribly mistreated, and who is just beautiful kitten, looking about to enjoy life and all the things con- much like her father, nected with it. Willie. She is light col- For those interested, I feed my cats, ored, while her mother is apart from regular prey animals (such as very dark. She is not mice, guinea pigs, and pigeons), baby interested in meat, where- chickens, whole chickens, beef, beef as the oncilla kits crave it. heart, rabbit, and, for those who like it, All three kittens are per- cream and prawns. All get one egg yolk fectly healthy, well-cared per day. They have plenty of grass in Peggy, an 11 year old oncilla, gives birth to a male for, and loved. The moth- their outdoor spaces. Additionally, all get kitten named Dume and, 24 hours later, another ers are proud and healthy, multivitamins daily and extra calcium female kitten named April. and the only thing that dis- when needed.

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31 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 Cytauxzoonosis By Karin Möstl can lead to multi-organ dysfunc- randomized prospec- From www.abcdcatsvets.org tion, failure, and death within tive clinical trial three weeks after infection. demonstrated better Cytauxzoon species are apicomplexan When schizonts rupture in the survival rates (60 % hemoparasites (family Theileriidae) of circulation, large numbers of versus 26 %) with wild and domestic cats, transmitted by merozoites are released, infect- the combination of ticks. C. felis is the main species, with ing red blood cells and addition- atovaquone (15 numerous strains or genotypes, producing al mononuclear cells. This is the mg/kg PO q8h) and infection and severe disease in domestic late-stage with erythropara- azithromycin (10 Life cycle of Cytauxzoon cats and in U.S. captive wildlife collec- sitaemia (piroplasma structures mg/kg PO q 24h), felis. The parasite is tions. Species including lions, tigers, within red blood cells), which compared to imido- maintained in bobcats leopards, lynx, and Pallas’s cats have suc- can be readily observed in blood carb (3.5 mg/kg IM (top), which are subclini- cumbed to this tick-borne disease. smears and may lead to once) in 80 cats with cally infected. The impor- Cytauxzoonosis has been documented haemolytic anaemia and ery- acute disease. Mor- tance of domestic cats as in native wild felids such as bobcats, throphagocytosis. tality was high a reservoir for infection Florida panthers, and Texas cougars. The Clinical signs are nonspecific (41/80 cats). Most of ticks is unknown. first cases in domestic cats were docu- and consist of depression, cats died during the Image and description mented in 1976. For many years, cytaux- anorexia, high fever, icterus, first three days after from Veteriankey.com. zoonosis in domestic cats was only report- dyspnoea, tachycardia, general- presentation, with ed in North America (Southeastern and ized pain, and vocalization. Signs of only three cats dying after the third day of central states, and mid-Atlantic regions) haemolytic anaemia are frequent (pale treatment. Supportive treatment was the and South America; in recent years, the mucosal membranes, pigmenturia, same in all cats, including fluids, heparin, infection has also been documented in splenomegaly, and hepatomegaly). Some and supportive care. This study suggests Europe. cats may present or evolve to late stages that this treatment combination plus sup- It has been hypothesized that infection with neurological signs (ataxia, seizures, portive treatment is the current treatment in domestic cats was the result of a host nystagmus), hypothermia, moribund state, of choice. species jump from bobcats, where the and coma. Many cats die within one week Cats surviving the acute infection may infection prevalence may be high. The after the onset of clinical signs. Veterinar- become chronic carriers for life with piro- disease shows a seasonal incidence from ians practicing in an endemic area must plasms within the red blood cells. These spring to early fall, associated with peak suspect cytauxzoonosis in front of any cat cats act as reservoirs and may transmit the activity of the tick vectors. There is a sig- with an acute, severe disease. infection through tick vectors. There is nificant association between infection and In clinical practice, diagnosis is usually currently no vaccine against C. felis, outdoor access, and with feral cats in areas obtained by identification of C. felis in although first preliminary studies are where vector ticks are prevalent. No asso- blood smears and/or fine needle aspirates being conducted. ciation with gender, breed, age, or retrovi- from the liver, spleen, and lymph nodes Prevention is based on living indoors or ral status has been found. In some areas stained with quick Romanowsky-type the use of effective tick treatment in out- in the U.S., cytauxzoonosis has been stains used in practice. door cats. Efficacy on the prevention of increasingly diagnosed in the last decade Historically, cytauxzoonosis has been C. felis transmission using an acaricide and is considered an emerging disease. considered a fatal disease with mortality collar (imidacloprid 10 % plus flumethrin Vector ticks ingest merozoite-infected nearly at 100%. With the recent advances 4.5 %) has been proven in a controlled red blood cells from the natural reservoir in treatment and/or differences in strain prospective clinical trial. Two groups of host (bobcat, lynx, or domestic cat). The pathogenicity, this is no longer true, cats (cats with and without collar) were parasite initiates a process of sexual repli- although the prognosis remains guarded. exposed to ticks (A. americanum) infected cation (gametogenesis) in the tick gut and Supportive and critical care treatment with C. felis. No cats with collar versus salivary glands. This leads to the forma- (intensive fluid and oxygen therapy, anti- 90 % of the cats with no collar were tion of sporozoites, which are the infective thrombus formation drugs like unfraction- infected. form and can be transmitted if the tick ated heparin 200 U/kg SC q8h, blood Prognosis should be considered guarded attaches to a domestic cat. Sporozoites products, antibiotics, and analgesics) are to fair, if proper intensive care is provided infect endothelial-associated mononuclear extremely important to keep the cat alive and atovaquone is available, in cytaux- cells and undergo asexual replication while the antiprotozoal drugs and immune zoonosis in the U.S. It has been suggested within the macrophages that become a system do their work. Many cats get that different C. felis strains may vary in large structure known as schizonts – large worse during the first days and often die, pathogenicity to domestic cats, having an enough to occlude blood vessels, especial- but if they survive, a gradual improvement influence in survival as some cats have ly in the liver, spleen, and lungs. Wide- is seen over the next days. survived after not receiving antiprotozoal spread dissemination of schizonts results Imidocarb has been the drug of choice drugs. Anyway, it is recommended to in parasitic thrombosis, circulatory for many years, although it was not known treat cats in well-equipped hospitals where impairment, tissue infection, and severe if it provided any advantage over support- the best supportive treatment can be pro- systemic inflammatory response, which ive care alone. However, an open-label, vided.

32 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 60, Issue 4 • Oct.-Dec. 2016 Cytauxzoon Felis (AKA "Bobcat Fever") Danny Waldo shares a detailed account of bobcat fever treatment success in a domestic cat. Bobcat fever is a serious disease that threatens not only domestic pets, but most wild feline species held in captivity in Southern states, where ticks are a problem. Improve- ments in treatment protocols should be followed in any wild feline exhibiting the symptoms of cytauxzoonosis.

By Danny Waldo diaceturate. The vet handed me a bottle of was so low that adding fluids via IV cherry-flavored azithromycin and told me would have been dangerous, as it would Apparently, my wife and I love our cats. to administer orally for ten days. I was have reduced his packed red cell volume We have a bobcat, Gibsy, and a housecat, told Buddy had bobcat fever and that he even further. And, as we headed out the Buddy. I mean, of course we love them. was leaving town. He said to bring Buddy door, once again I was told, ”Good luck." That is a no-brainer. But when Buddy was back in ten days for a follow up shot and Okay, I am seriously getting tired of hear- diagnosed with bobcat fever, a tick-borne "good luck." ing that!! illness that at the time we knew nothing Things took a turn for the worse a cou- Friday at 4 am, we were finally home about, LOVE was an understatement. ple of hours later (maybe due to one of the and had the spare bedroom turned into There was nothing we would not have shots). By this time, I was a Google Buddy's hospital room. Our instructions done to guarantee his survival. expert on bobcat fever and had figured out were to administer the azithromycin and The problem with that was, there was the drugs Buddy was given had a much atovaquone orally and five cc’s of water to no way to guarantee much of anything. lower rate of success than something wash it down with every eight hours. So, it came down to mostly judgement. newer (“A&A”/azithromycin and ato- Now, since I am now a Google expert Better or worse judgment? Who knows! vaquone). on bobcat fever, as best I could tell, all of All I do know is that Buddy made it I also had a whole range of emotions to these drugs were used to treat malaria. through this and is back to his old, bouncy go with this drama to boot. I loaded So, I wondered what natural stuff was self. And we love him even more, if that Buddy up and headed three hours north to used to treat malaria? I found that mono- is possible. And, even though he is on the an emergency clinic that was reported to laurin is used. Monolaurin is basically the counter right now licking my sandwich, I deal with bobcat fever constantly. They lauric acid that is found in coconut oil. It am better than okay with that. were considered experts at treating bobcat will not hurt a cat, and should not affect I am not going to get into what bobcat fever, and with better than average results. Buddy’s prescription drugs either. fever is. Most of you already know and, if We arrived Thursday at 9 pm. I will just On Friday at 8 am, I am on my way to not, there is Google for that. It is find monolaurin and stopped by bad though. You may hear or read another local vet and asked him, "If I that improvements in treatment need you this weekend during non- protocol have increased the sur- working hours to end this, can you?” vival rate from near zero to as high He confirmed, gave me his cell num- as 60%. But that 60% comes from ber, and then asked why. cats that had the best chance of sur- I spared no detail and told him the vival already, and those cats got story of "Alice's Restaurant in four- 24/7 care because they were part of part harmony" (Well, you get the a study. Timing is important, so if idea; I have not slept in 24 hours the symptoms were noticed a day now, and am now fully aware of how too late, the cat was turned down much I love my cat). He said, and was not part of the study. "Blood work." He wanted to see the I think it a safe assumption that blood work results, and he wanted to the actual survival rate is far lower run his own and he wanted that now. than 60%. Geographic distribution of Cytauxzoon felis It was Friday at noon, and Buddy Buddy lay around and didn't eat infections. Shaded areas show confirmed cases was now at this vet getting blood Tuesday or Wednesday. I figured in either domestic cats (blue), or bobcats only work done, and I was headed on a he ate a mouse or something that (ND and PA). The yellow region represents the three-hour drive to get some mono- did not agree with him. I thought, distribution of Amblyomma americanum ticks. laurin. I had already bought some “He'll be okay. No need to take him Image and description from Veteriankey.com. coconut oil capsules at Wally World, to the vet.” thinking that would be the next best Since we were going out of town Fri- have to spare you the next three hours of thing in case I could not find monolaurin. day, I made a last minute decision on drama. Friday at 4 pm, this latest vet showed us Thursday to run him by the vet. Sort of a We left the emergency clinic at mid- the blood work results and compared them now or never decision. I mean, what if night and $600 poorer, with a bottle of to the results from the night before. He something really was wrong with him? atovaquone, a handful of paperwork, and explained the improvement and said his Thursday at 3 pm, my vet took his tem- blood work results confirming bobcat one degree above normal temperature was perature, which was an alarming 105.5˚F. fever. Buddy had been administered sub- better than a sub-normal temperature. He looked him over, then gave him a shot cutaneous fluids to combat his extreme But, he said, Buddy flat out had to eat, of imidocarb dipropionate and diminazene dehydration. Buddy’s red blood cell count because a cat must eat or else his liver will

33 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 fail. It is challenging and tough, because a (drops of water). He hated this, and it cat with a high fever feels bad, and a cat hurt us to have to do it. But we did it any- that feels bad will not eat. way and washed it down with water, then Buddy was given an injection of Meta- offered the milk supplement or turkey cam to hopefully reduce his fever, reduce right away. The ground turkey had to be his pain, and make him feel better. I was in half-fingernail sized nibbles. Tiny, tiny, given four more syringes of this and told tiny, or else he would just lick them and to administer once daily. His instructions give up. He just could not chew. included that I was to call anytime, day or We took his temperature once a day for night, if things got better or worse, and the first five days to be sure it did not hit also what to watch for. 106 or drop as low as 96. We never gave And so it began; at 8 am, 4 pm, and him any of the oral Metacam. He didn't Buddy contracted cytauxzoonosis midnight, I administered .5 cc seem to be in severe pain, his temperature while roaming outside. He must azithromycin, 300 mg atovaquone, 1000 never rose to 106, and he was nibbling have been bitten by a tick carrying mg coconut oil, all washed down with at food. Also, I did not like what I read the disease from the native wild least five cc’s of water. Then check his about Metacam, so this was reserved as a bobcat population. Gibsy was cap- litter box and offer him his favorite treat, last resort. His temperature did drop to 97 tive-born and lived inside Danny's raw ground turkey. And offer him PetAg once. We threw some towels in the dryer home at the time, so was not the Mature Cat Supplement, which looks like and wrapped him up with those and held source of the infection. KMR and smells like KMR, even though him for several hours, changing to a new simply caught the symptoms early. I am Buddy will not touch KMR. warm towel every 30 minutes or so. This sure timing is important and minutes mat- This went on for ten days. Each time, went over well. He is not much on being ter. I have read survival stories similar to he would take one more bite of ground held, but he loves fresh towels. So he tol- this, explaining what was done, followed turkey and/or a few more laps of the vita- erated that pretty well. His temperature by what didn’t work the next time. I do min supplement. went back up to 99 and we went to bed. know our Buddy survived, and if I had to Noon, 8 pm, and 4 am; Buddy got 500 One of us stayed in his room on and off do this again, I would do the same thing. mg monolaurin, washed down with at at least eight hours each day during his ten In Buddy’s case, he received all of least 5 cc’s of water, and was offered a days. We just stayed there with him and every drug and treatment used to combat few nibbles of ground turkey. On Tues- did not bother him much. He seemed to bobcat fever; what was used before, what day, we stopped the noon dose of 500 mg like the company. Most of the time, he is normally used now, and homeopathic monolaurin. On Friday, we stopped with would come curl up next to us and go to treatment. His temperature was high the another 500 mg monolaurin and one of the sleep, which is a little strange since he is a first two days after starting treatment, then 1000 mg coconut oil pills. His ten days of "do not touch me” cat most of the time. it dropped lower than normal on the third medication ended Sunday night. Buddy may have just been lucky. I do day. Then it went back up to above nor- By then, he was eating quite a bit of not know and will never know. Maybe we mal again. It sort of bounced around for raw turkey, putting a small three more days, but the dent in his bowl of kibble, highs and lows were no would lick up a dinner plate longer extreme. of supplement, and wanted DonationsDonations Each day, he ate a bit more out of that room! Cabin and each day we forced more fever… lol. The FCF Board of Directors thanks the following individuals and water down him. And about On day 14, Buddy went corporations who have made donations to FCF projects since the last the third day, after his round back to the second local vet, published Journal, providing additional funding for educational mate- of drugs, we would stick his who gave him a follow-up paws in his water bowl, thus rials for members and legislators, supporting conservation, and shot of imidocarb dipropi- making him lick it off. He onate. This was because he improving captive feline welfare. would not drink out of his had the first one already, We appreciate each donation, no matter the amount, recognizing that water bowl. was much improved, and it is the many small gifts that, when combined, add up and make a dif- And, no, this ordeal had “Better safe than sorry.” ference in the effectiveness of the FCF. We encourage everyone to fol- nothing to do with our baby Worthy of mentioning is low this example and donate funds for projects that interest you. bobcat, Gibsy. We now just that we would cut the tip off have to take extra precautions of a coconut oil capsule and so that he never gets it again. suck out the oil into the General Fund: Conservation Grants: I sure do not want to go syringe that contained his JoAnn Gunzer Patty Perry through this again. cherry azithromycin. He tol- Chris Tromborg As for vets and clinics? I erated his medication very would still get a second opin- well. We would take the The FCF appreciates your generosity & ion no matter how much you monolaurin powder out of like, or think you like, your their capsules and mix with continued support. current vet. as little water as possible

34 Wake Up To Quality, Value and Convenience!

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©2013 Rodentpro.com,llc. Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 USDA Fails to Protect Animal Businesses By Mindy Patterson handed to them by the USDA. FOIA has unfortunately been Animal rights groups such as Humane hijacked and is now used by animal Society of the United States (HSUS) and rights groups to gain access to confi- People for the Ethical Treatment of Ani- dential business information of USDA mals (PETA) have, in recent years, turned licensees to be manipulated and used to a disturbing tactic of singling out indi- against those citizens. Business owners vidual animal owners and animal related wouldn’t like it very much if competi- businesses by publishing their names, tors received access to their financials their addresses, private business informa- or exclusive information. It’s not a tion, and photographs of their animals and stretch to expect that FOIA requests for would be the law enforcement arm of the places of business online, while falsely personal information from the IRS in the radical environmental and animal rights manipulating the information with the future with the USDA setting this prece- extremists. intent of damaging their business, and dis- dent. The Cavalry Group considers Ameri- couraging customers and advertisers from In the case of the USDA, Executive ca’s food resources to be akin to, and as continuing their business relationships. Order 12600, Sec. 3 (a)(ii), specifically important as, our energy resources to pro- Any animal owner who engages in protects the licensee from disclosure of tect the sovereignty and security of the commerce with their animals, whether private and confidential business informa- United States. they exhibit, transport, raise, buy, or sells tion that would threaten harm to a person Our failure to develop our ample energy animals, is required to be licensed by the or their business interests. Despite resources has kept our industries and our United States Department of Agriculture required disclosure to the USDA/APHIS economy as a whole at risk, subject to the (USDA). A tremendous amount of infor- of this personal information as a licensed whims of unstable and expensive supplies mation is generated by licensees to the USDA licensee, there is no obvious bene- from the Middle East, Mexico, and South USDA, with the expectation that it will be fit to the public of the release of private, America. Agriculture, animal enterprise, used to benefit licensees and U.S. agricul- financial, and other information. and food production is already in the ture as a whole. Just five months ago, on September 9, crosshairs. 2016, in the case of American Farm While the USDA’s cultural changes and Bureau Federation et al. v. Environmental its failure to protect USDA licensees’ con- Protection Agency et al., Case No. 13-cv- fidential information may run under the 1751, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the radar of the average American, our ability Eighth Circuit, stopped the U.S. Environ- to maintain our agricultural production is mental Protection Agency (EPA) from a key element to maintaining our national releasing addresses and other information security and, therefore, should be impor- about animal farms under the Freedom of tant to all Americans. Radical environ- Information Act, finding that even if cer- mentalists and animal rights extremists are tain personal information might otherwise using the USDA as a Trojan horse, and be disclosed under the Freedom of Infor- hopefully the Trump administration will mation Act (FOIA), the provision of such help the American people see the danger personal data to environmental groups and right in front of them and avoid the same animal rights groups would constitute a fate as the Kingdom of Troy. Historically, the USDA has been a valu- violation of the submitters’ right to priva- While we are hopeful that the new Pres- able partner for licensees, but, unfortu- cy. The American Farm Bureau Federa- idential administration will ease the gov- nately, that is no longer the case. The tion and the National Pork Producers ernmental overreach at the federal levels, USDA has succumbed to the pressure of Council sued the EPA in July 2013, after we believe 2017 could be most challeng- animal rights extremists by hiring them the agency released the names, addresses, ing at the state and local levels for animal into key positions at the USDA and by and GPS locations of farms that keep ani- owners and animal-related businesses. allowing the release of private licensee mals in close confinement in several The Cavalry Group is a member-based information, knowing full well that it will states. Environmental groups, including company and we cannot fight back with- be used to attack the licensee’s business Food & Water Watch, had requested the out support. and customers. information, and the plaintiffs sought to Currently, we are opposing pending ani- The Freedom of Information Act prevent further disclosures. mal rights-driven legislation in thirteen (FOIA) was intended to provide trans- When the USDA was created by an act legislatures, and exotic animal bans in parency to government, not to be used of Congress in 1862, with the goals of seven city councils across the U.S. against American citizens, yet this process working to improve and maintain farm This past year alone, we have: is being used frequently by animal rights income, and to develop and expand mar- • Successfully stopped unwarranted groups whose nefarious use of such pri- kets abroad for agricultural products, it seizures. vate, confidential information is being clearly was not anticipated that the USDA • Successfully defended members in 62

36 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 cases of extortion against our American way of life! dog breeder members! Visit the site, choose We cannot stand watch to • Successfully defended cases “Feline Conservation protect all of our members with- against unfounded claims of out continued support, and we alleged animal cruelty. Federation” as your encourage you to join us and • Successfully cleared mem- charity and then shop. You’ll find the exact become a member of our organi- bers in legal actions brought on same low prices, vast selection, and conve- zation, which is working to fight by overzealous local, state, and back and protect animal owner- federal officials. nient shopping experience as Amazon.com, ship today and for future genera- • Testified in opposition of with the added bonus that Amazon will tions. animal rights-driven legislation donate a portion of the purchase price to Joining is easy. Visit our in several states. website at www.TheCavalry- • Testified in favor of legisla- the Feline Conservation Federation. Group.com and hit the “JOIN” tion supportive of animal own- tab. Or feel free to call our ership and animal enterprise. nationally syndicated radio programs, office at 855-748-4210. • Lobbied in Washington, D.C., against speaking engagements, and publications, The 10% discount code for membership the aggressive promotion of HSUS's fed- where we also promote the interests of our and renewals: K1Y95GV0. eral legislation. members and animal enterprise. Good until December 31, 2017. • We have plans to be in Washington, • Hosted the Liberty Summit 2016, a Membership is tax deductible. D.C. often in 2017. convention in St. Charles, Missouri, with • Held instructional webinars to help incredible speakers who work daily in the Mindy Patterson is the President of The our members with sales contracts and trenches to educate, motivate, and activate Cavalry Group, a member-based company knowledge about how to protect their in the world of animal ownership! protecting and defending the Constitution- property. • Despite our successes, the fight to al and private property rights of law abid- • Acted as spokespeople on behalf of defend our members' Constitutional rights ing animal owners, animal-related busi- our members in both radio and television to be free from illegal search and seizure, ness, hunters, and agriculture concerns interviews and working to counter the and to have the right to due process to nationwide. Follow Mindy Patterson and false claims of the animal rights groups defend against fraudulent claims contin- The Cavalry Group on Twitter: @cow- via media. ues, while the animal rights extremists girlathart and @TheCavalryGroup. • Continue to expose the public to the continue to sneak into every aspect of our dangers of the animal rights movement via

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37 Feline Conservation Federation Volume 61, Issue 1 • Jan.-Mar. 2017 Phaedra and the Chipmunk By Carol E. Cochran make them Phaedra-proof, but part of the every day for almost two weeks, and sat wooden window frame had become weak right under the window, looking in, which Our serval, Phaedra, was raised in the and rotten from rain, and the wire gave drove poor Phaedra crazy. house with our Bengals and a domestic way when Phaedra leaned against it. I Luckily for the chipmunk, Phaedra was cat, and normally had run of the whole yelled for Pat to tell him Phaedra had got- not sure what to do after capturing her house. She preferred to hang out in our ten out. I knew she would not go to him, prey. She finally gave up after it disap- bedroom, however, as she could see the but I thought he might be able to distract peared, but will remember her first hunt front porch and front and side yard. She her enough so I could grab her. It would for a long, long time. was never allowed outdoors without her be difficult, as she was not wearing her harness and leash, or in a holding pen harness. She grabbed her prey and ran across the front yard toward the four foot high fence. She stopped, looked at the top of the fence as if trying to determine whether or not to jump it, and then hesi- tated. Fortunately, we had taught her a few commands, so I yelled, “Phaedra, no, lie down.” She dropped down with the critter in her mouth, giving me enough time to reach her and grab her. When I got to her, I Carol cuddles with Phaedra. grabbed her under her belly and front legs, where she could lie down, relax, and and carried her and her catch to the hold- enjoy the sunshine. ing cage in the yard. I got her into the One day during the springtime, I cage, closed the door, and it was at that noticed her looking out the front window, point she dropped her catch. I finally saw switching her tail, twitching, and chatter- that she had captured a chipmunk. It did ing. She was concentrating on the front not appear to be hurt at all, and just before porch close to the house. I looked out the she grabbed it again, it slipped through the window and could not see anything that bars of the cage and ran off. She fussed would be so interesting, but she was spy- and chirped awhile, and after she calmed ing on something that she wanted. For down I was able to bring her back into the two or three days she stayed right by the house. window, body stiff and constantly vocaliz- In the meantime, ing, never taking her eyes off of the corner Pat had repaired the of the porch. wire screen and, as Join the Zoological Association of America On the fourth day, I was in the bedroom soon as I got her folding some clothes, while Phaedra was into the house, she Several levels of membership busy watching her creature on the porch, immediately ran include commercial, educational, although I still had not seen what had cap- into the bedroom, facility, and individual. tured her interest. Suddenly, I heard a right to the window Facility Accreditation is also noise and turned around in time to see looking for her available. Phaedra jump out the window to the front chipmunk, and porch and freedom to take possession of stayed there the rest promoting the P.O. Box 511275 the prize she had been stalking for so of the day, watch- responsible ownership, Punta Gorda, FL 33951 long. ing. The little chip- management, and propagation 941-621-2021 My husband, Pat, had reinforced our munk showed up of animals in both info@zaaorg windows with heavy hardware cloth to the next day and private and public domains www.zaa.org

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Front Cover: Mark Mathews photographed this margay while visiting the Belize Zoo and Tropi- cal Education Center this past January. Read more about his and Shelleen's visit on page 27.

Back Cover: What kids do behind their parents’ back. Tapanga Asian leopard cat and her kitten, Amaia. Photo by Sheri DeFlorio.

Feline Conseration Federation Prsrt Std 7815 Houser Street U.S. Postage Kansas City, MO 64167 PAID Bomar Printing Permit #81 Spartanburg, SC