Changing Seasons, Changing Lives
F
or cats at The Wildcat Sanctuary, change is something each has experienced throughout their lives. From being purchased as a pet to now living their days at a natural sanctuary. We do our best to make change as positive as possible. But no one can offer positive change better than mother nature and its gift of the change of seasons here in Minnesota. Each of us looks forward to seasonal changes in our own special way. Whether it’s being with family during the winter holidays, or looking forward to summer vacations, or roasting marshmallows over autumn bonfires, or picnics in the park during springtime. For the cats, it’s really no different. They have a favorite season, just as we do. Whether it be the hot days of summer, the moist days of spring, the snowy days of winter, or the crisp cool days of autumn, for each species and each cat, the seasons offer all sorts of opportunities for something new and exciting! It’s fun to watch the cats change, especially the way they play and adapt. The servals anticipate and celebrate
the hot summer days. Basking in the sun’s rays, we know they must be dreaming of African savannahs their cousins enjoy in the wild. But, that’s not necessarily the case with the cougars and tigers who’d much rather be enjoying a summer dip in their pools. How lucky are tigers like Titan and Lilly to have donors who’ve provided water features to help them “chill” on even the hottest days! Looking toward the other part of the Sanctuary in the summer, you’ll find the bobcats and lynx enjoying long naps under their trees or in their caves which provide a cool, shady place for them. When the heat of summer starts to fade and the annual cascade of leaves start to fall, you can see the cats start to sense something’s in the air – literally. Just like a child, there’s something irresistible about a fresh pile of fall leaves to play in. Keepers roll carts full of pumpkins to the habitats and the cats couldn’t be more grateful for this extra special room service. Pumpkins provide hours of endless activity. Whether it’s ripping them to shreds and playing in the gooey mess or tossing them around
Lilly, Bengal tiger
8
February 2014
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