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Tigers from Wesa-A-Geh-Ya are outdoors!
Mona reclines in her new place
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Fenimore discovers that there's plenty of hiding spots!
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Emerson sniffs the air in his new outdoor pad.
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Moki enjoys some privacy at the back of her new space.
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October 22nd Update: The MO tigers are settling into their outdoor enclosures. Mona and Moki are in Tiger Island, and seem to be adjusting well. Emerson and Fenimore are located in the back, and prefer a little more privacy. Mona and Moki can now be seen during public tours, but CPT asks that tour guests respect Emerson and Fenimore's privacy, as they are still a little uncomfortable around groups.
Wesa-a-Geh-Ya Rescue
CPT rescued 4 tigers from the Wesa-a-geh-ya facility in Missouri when the facility closed following a tiger attack on a volunteer. The 26-year-old volunteer, Jacob Barr, underwent surgery and lost his leg below the knee. The tiger, Hercules, was shot. The local sheriff set a deadline of September 16th for all the animals to be removed from the Wesa property.
How many animals were there? Where did they go?
G.W. Exotic Animal Memorial Park in Oklahoma picked up 8 lions, 4 tigers, a cougar, a leopard, and 6 other exotic animals from Wesa. Our four tigers were the next to leave, arriving at CPT on September 5th, and the remaining 15 tigers are being transferred to Serenity Springs in Colorado.
What sort of situation were the animals in at Wesa-a-Geh-Ya?
There is a significant amount of ongoing debate about animal care at Wesa-a-Geh-Ya and about its responsibility in the attack. If you would like to know more about the controversial history of the facility, the community discussion on Topix.com offers published news articles and ongoing commentary from the Warrenton, MO community.
How are the tigers? What condition were they in?
The tigers arrived fairly dirty, and a bit grumpy. They were small, but not thin. The male tigers appear to have structural issues that may be a result of inbreeding. All four tigers were given veterinary physicals on Thursday, Sept 18th. The males have been neutered, and the females have been treated for roundworms. CPT will consider spaying the females once their bloodwork is evaluated.
The Wesa tigers have adjusted well to quarantine. The male tigers were renamed Emerson and Fenimore, after classical authors, and the females were renamed Mona and Moki- names suggested by the state they came from. "Mona" is a Gaelic name meaning "little, noble one", and "Moki" is the name of a tribe of native Americans.
After 30-60 days in quarantine, barring any health problems, the male tigers will be placed in Pollo tiger's former enclosure, and the females will join Tiger Island. They will remain off the tour route until CPT staff are confident that tour traffic will not cause them undue stress.
For a "behind-the-scenes" account of the tigers' arrival, complete with photos and video, visit the CPT Insider Blog, The Secret Turtle.
For updated photos and videos, check out CPT's Facebook page (login, search for "Carnivore Preservation Trust") and YouTube channel.
What can I do to help?
CPT needs to expand the tigers' enclosures before they move in. There are several ways you can help:
Donate
CPT must raise funds for the lifetime care of these four tigers, approximately $5000 per year for each tiger. You can contribute to their care with a direct contribution by clicking the donation link at the bottom of the page.
Adopt a Tiger
Our new tigers need adoptive parents to help fund their ongoing care. The Adoption program is designed as a lifetime commitment that allows you to build a relationship with these wonderful animals!
Donate Construction Materials
CPT has created a Lowe's Gift Registry for the items needed to expand the new tigers' enclosures. CPT can pickup registered items from the Pittsboro store.
Please note that CPT will need an additional $600 in Lowe's gift cards to purchase plywood.
Related Articles:
9/3/2008, Chatham Journal
"CPT sets date to rescue four tigers"
8/6/2008, WRAL
"Sheriffs: 2 tiger attacks show tougher laws needed"
8/5/2008, Warrenton Journal
"Wesa-A-Geh-Ya to close, owner says"
Rescue Campaign
CPT
1940 Hanks Chapel Rd.
Pittsboro, NC 27312
(919) 542-4684
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