Pittsboro, NC – In mid-January, Carolina Tiger Rescue, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, and Little French Key successfully completed the Operation Flight to Sanctuary, a historic international rescue of eight big cats from Honduras. Five tigers have safely arrived at Carolina Tiger Rescue in Pittsboro, North Carolina, and three African lions are now home at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, both GFAS-accredited sanctuaries.
This rescue represents the culmination of years of dedication, coordination, and expertise across all three organizations. Under the leadership of Leonardo Lahijani, the Little French Key team provided the best possible care for the eight big cats in Honduras while simultaneously working tirelessly to secure their placement in accredited sanctuaries where they would receive the lifelong care, dignified treatment, comprehensive nutrition, and species-specific enrichment that every big cat deserves.
“This milestone reflects years of careful planning and an unwavering commitment to animal welfare,” said Kris Marino, Executive Director of Carolina Tiger Rescue. “Leo and the Little French Key team advocated for these animals every step of the way, coordinating with us and Turpentine Creek to ensure that each cat would have a safe, permanent home. Their dedication and care made this rescue possible.”
The international relocation involved meticulous preparation, including the design of custom transport crates, veterinary oversight, international permits, and coordinated logistics to reduce stress and ensure the cats’ safety. Every aspect of the operation prioritized the animals’ welfare, from their time in transit to their introduction into expansive, naturalistic habitats.
Leonardo Lahijani, who led the Little French Key team throughout this effort, said, “I have cared for these animals as my family for years. While it’s difficult to say goodbye, I
know placing them in accredited sanctuaries is the best decision for their future. It has always been about their well-being, and I am grateful to see them thriving.”
Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge echoed this sentiment: “This rescue shows the power of collaboration between accredited sanctuaries and dedicated partners,” said Tanya Smith, President and Founder. “Together, we’ve been able to provide these cats with stability, safety, and a permanent home where they can live with dignity and space to be their wild selves.”
All eight big cats will receive exceptional veterinary care, enrichment, thoughtfully prepared nutrition, and access to large habitats designed to meet their physical and behavioral needs. This historic rescue demonstrates what is possible when organizations work together with a shared commitment to animal welfare and dignity.
Carolina Tiger Rescue is raising $100,000 to support the costs associated with this rescue, including transport, veterinary care, custom-made crates, and the lifelong care of the five tigers.
To support Carolina Tiger Rescue in Operation Flight to Sanctuary, go HERE.
To support Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Operation Flight to Freedom, go HERE.