By Gene Galin
Pittsboro, NC – Nestled in the heart of Chatham County, the Carolina Tiger Rescue has been a beacon of hope for big cats for over five decades. With a mission focused on providing a safe and enriching environment for its residents, the sanctuary stands apart from roadside zoos by prioritizing the choice and well-being of its animals. During a walking tour of the facilities led by volunteer coordinator Maryssa Hill we delve into the sanctuary’s operations, the unique behaviors of its inhabitants, and the importance of public education in fostering a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation.
[This is part 1 of a multi-part series on the Carolina Tiger Rescue]
A Legacy of Care: The History of Carolina Tiger Rescue
Founded in 1973, Carolina Tiger Rescue has evolved from a small wildlife refuge into a well-respected sanctuary that cares for 56 animals, primarily big cats. It has roots in the Carnivore Evolutionary Research Institute, which was founded by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill professor and geneticist Dr. Michael Bleyman. That organization became the Carnivore Preservation Trust (CPT) in 1981, with a mission to maintain a viable population of species essential to the survival of their ecosystem. In 2009, the name was changed to Carolina Tiger Rescue.
CPT’s mission is saving and protecting wild cats both in captivity and in the wild and eliminating their exploitation by humans. The sanctuary’s long-standing commitment to animal welfare is evident in its dedication to providing a peaceful retirement for its residents. Unlike roadside zoos, where animals are often kept in cramped conditions for entertainment, Carolina Tiger Rescue emphasizes the importance of choice for its inhabitants.
As Maryssa explained, “All of our animals have choice. We want them to feel secure and comfortable in their environment.” This philosophy shapes every aspect of the sanctuary’s operations, ensuring that the animals can decide how to spend their day, whether it be lounging in the sun or retreating to a quieter space.
Understanding Animal Behavior: Oofing, Chuffing, and Choice
An integral part of the sanctuary’s mission is educating the public about animal behavior. Visitors to Carolina Tiger Rescue are often greeted by a chorus of animal sounds, each with its own meaning. During our tour, I was introduced to Roman, a lion whose vocalizations, known as “oofing,” play a critical role in communication among prides. Unlike a roar, which signals aggression or anger, oofing serves as a way for lions to stay connected across distances and assert territorial boundaries. It is a way to express their presence and can also signify excitement or territorial claims.
Understanding these vocalizations is part of the educational experience offered to guests. The sanctuary aims to foster a deeper appreciation for these animals by sharing insights into their behavior and communication methods. Visitors learn that these sounds are not just noise; they are integral to the social structures of the animal kingdom.
Hill highlighted the importance of recognizing when an animal no longer wishes to participate in public tours. “If they get stressed being around groups of people, then we don’t want them living anywhere near the tour path,” Maryssa noted. Animals like Roman can signal their preferences by choosing to distance themselves from tour groups, showcasing their autonomy within the sanctuary.
The Sanctuary Experience: Guidelines for Visitors
Carolina Tiger Rescue offers guided tours every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, allowing the public to learn about the animals while respecting their space. Visitors are required to adhere to strict guidelines to ensure both their safety and the comfort of the animals. Key rules for tour participants include staying with the group, refraining from loud noises or running, and being mindful of the natural surroundings, which may include hazards such as fire ants and poison ivy. The sanctuary provides ample opportunities for hydration, with water stations located throughout the grounds.
As we started off on the tour Maryssa emphasized that, “The biggest danger out here is going to be fire ants or poison ivy, particularly in the summer.” By educating visitors about potential risks and the animals’ needs, the sanctuary fosters a respectful and informative environment.
The Role of Education in Wildlife Conservation
Education is a cornerstone of Carolina Tiger Rescue’s mission. By providing insights into the lives of big cats and the challenges they face in the wild, the sanctuary aims to inspire a sense of responsibility and advocacy among visitors. Staff members want people to leave after a visit with a greater understanding of wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting these animals in their natural habitats.
Through interactive tours and informative sessions, the sanctuary engages visitors in discussions about the threats facing big cats, including habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade. This approach not only raises awareness but also encourages individuals to take action in their communities.
The Importance of Choice: A Unique Sanctuary Philosophy
At the heart of Carolina Tiger Rescue’s operations is the belief that animals should have the freedom to make choices about their lives. This philosophy is evident in the sanctuary’s approach to animal care, where each resident is treated as an individual with unique needs and preferences.
For instance, animals that prefer solitude are housed away from the tour paths, ensuring they can live without the stress of human interaction. As Maryssa noted, “We’re here for them first. This is their retirement. We don’t want to mess that up with something that we know is going to be a trigger for them.”
Veterinary Care and Animal Welfare
The well-being of the animals at Carolina Tiger Rescue is a top priority. The sanctuary employs a team of dedicated professionals who ensure that each animal receives the necessary veterinary care and attention. This includes regular health check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency care when needed.
The sanctuary is equipped to handle various medical procedures, with specialized enclosures designed to facilitate safe and efficient veterinary care. For example, the “shifts”—smaller areas within the enclosures—allow staff to safely monitor the animals during examinations and treatments. Carolina Tiger Rescue is commited to providing a high standard of care.
Challenges and Triumphs
While Carolina Tiger Rescue has achieved significant milestones in animal care and education, the sanctuary also faces challenges. Funding is a constant concern, as operating a facility that cares for large exotic animals requires substantial resources. The sanctuary relies on donations, memberships, and tour fees to sustain its operations and continue its mission.
Additionally, the sanctuary must navigate the complexities of wildlife laws and regulations, which can vary by state and may impact the ability to rescue and rehabilitate animals. Advocacy for stronger animal welfare legislation is an ongoing effort for the team at Carolina Tiger Rescue, as they strive to improve conditions for all animals in captivity.
Carolina Tiger Rescue stands as a testament to the importance of animal welfare and education in wildlife conservation. By prioritizing the needs and choices of its residents, the sanctuary not only provides a safe haven for big cats but also serves as a vital educational resource for the public. Visitors get to leave with a deeper understanding of the challenges facing wildlife and the role they can play in protecting these magnificent creatures.
For those interested in learning more about Carolina Tiger Rescue, volunteering, or supporting the sanctuary, visit their website or consider scheduling a visit.
Watch on YouTube – Part 1 Learning about Carolina Tiger Rescue – 7.18.25
Exploring Carolina Tiger Rescue: Understanding Animal Choice, Communication, and Sanctuary Life at the Wildlife Preservation Center.
00:14 Introduction to Carolina Tiger Rescue and its sound communication.
- Carolina Tiger Rescue has been operational for 52 years, with a familiar environment for neighboring residents.
- The lion’s ‘oofing’ call aids in territorial reinforcement and communication between prides.
01:20 Carolina Tiger Rescue prioritizes animal choice in their sanctuary.
- Animals at the sanctuary have the freedom to choose how they spend their day.
- Out of 56 animals, only about 20 are on public tours, as they are more social and comfortable around people.
02:34 Tour decisions at Carolina Tiger Rescue prioritize animal comfort.
- The animals, like Naveen the tiger, determine their participation in tours based on stress levels.
- If an animal shows signs of stress, they are removed from the tour path to ensure their well-being.
03:36 Animals communicate their desire to avoid interaction during tours.
- Animals may stop coming to the tour area, indicating they don’t wish to interact.
- Consistent behavior, such as walking to distant spots, signals to staff that the animals prefer solitude.
04:41 Safety rules for visitors at Carolina Tiger Rescue tours.
- Visitors must stay with their tour group to respect animal boundaries and ensure everyone’s safety.
- Behavioral guidelines include no running or screaming to avoid disturbing the animals and to stay alert for environmental hazards.
05:40 Tour highlights safety and features of Carolina Tiger Rescue.
- Visitors are encouraged to bring water and can refill at various spigots throughout the sanctuary.
- Guidelines are provided to leave natural items like rocks and feathers undisturbed for animal safety and enrichment.
06:49 Discussing safety measures and enclosures at Carolina Tiger Rescue.
- Tiger and lion enclosures feature 16-foot tall fences to ensure animal and visitor safety.
- Small shift areas are designed for veterinary procedures, allowing monitoring while sedating animals.
07:56 Understanding tiger behavior and communication at Carolina Tiger Rescue.
- Tigers use chuffing as a greeting, resembling a forceful exhale.
- Caretakers engage with tigers by prompting them to enter designated areas for cleaning and feeding.