Bird Flu Outbreak Devastates Wild Felid Sanctuary: 20 Big Cats Lost
The Wild Felid Advocacy Center in Shelton, Washington is reeling from a bird flu outbreak that killed 20 of its big cats, including a Bengal tiger. Learn about the outbreak’s impact, the sanctuary’s response, and how the community can help support the surviving animals.
Tragic Bird Flu Outbreak Strikes Wild Felid Advocacy Center in Shelton, Washington
The Wild Felid Advocacy Center of Washington, a non-profit animal shelter in Shelton, is facing an unimaginable loss after a bird flu outbreak killed 20 of its big cats, including a Bengal tiger and several other exotic felines. The sanctuary, known for its work in rescuing and rehabilitating wild cats, confirmed on December 20 that over half of its cats had contracted highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), more commonly known as bird flu.
The outbreak, which began on December 2, led the center to temporarily close its doors to the public and quarantine the affected animals. The bird flu virus spreads primarily through respiratory secretions and bird-to-bird contact, but it can also be contracted by carnivorous mammals when they ingest infected birds or contaminated materials. Although the sanctuary has stringent biosecurity measures in place, the virus spread rapidly, leading to a devastating toll on the center’s residents.
The Losses: 20 Big Cats Dead
By December 20, it was confirmed that 20 big cats had died as a result of the outbreak, including beloved animals from a variety of species. Among those lost were:
Tabbi, an Amur/Bengal tiger
Hooligan, Holly, Harley, and Hannah Wyoming, four cougars
Crackle, an African caracal
Chickie and P’uch’ub, two Canadian lynx
Mouse, a Geoffroy cat
Pebbles, a Bengal cat
Thumper, a Eurasian lynx
Digger, Willie-Bob, Ruffian, and Tank, four bobcats
Nile, Percival, Nefertiti, Blondie, and Shasta, five African servals
The shelter, which prides itself on its ability to manage outbreaks through strict quarantine protocols and comprehensive disinfection, acknowledged that despite their best efforts, the virus had claimed the lives of these incredible animals. "We are equipped to manage outbreaks, but this tragedy has deeply affected our team," the sanctuary wrote on Facebook.
Response and Recovery Efforts
In response to the outbreak, the Wild Felid Advocacy Center is working closely with federal and state animal health authorities, as well as local health officials, to contain the virus and protect the remaining animals. Expert private veterinarians are overseeing the treatment and prevention strategies, and biosecurity measures continue to be implemented to minimize the risk of further spread.
The sanctuary’s team is now focused on the care and recovery of the surviving felids. However, the mounting medical costs and the resources required to combat the outbreak have placed a significant financial strain on the sanctuary, even with discounted veterinary care. The center has turned to the community for support during this challenging time.
A Call for Community Support
The Wild Felid Advocacy Center’s team, devastated by the loss, is now reaching out to the public for help in caring for the surviving animals and covering the substantial medical costs. The shelter’s future relies heavily on donations and community support to continue its mission of caring for the wild felines that remain.
"This tragedy has touched our hearts deeply, and we are asking for your help as we focus on recovery and healing," the sanctuary said. "The financial strain is real, but with your support, we can continue to provide the care our remaining felids need."
A Community in Mourning
The Wild Felid Advocacy Center’s loss is a heartbreaking reminder of the vulnerability of wildlife to disease outbreaks. As the sanctuary works through this difficult time, the support of the community and animal lovers everywhere will be crucial in ensuring the survival and care of the remaining felines. With strict protocols in place and expert care continuing, the center remains hopeful that it can weather this crisis and emerge stronger for the animals that depend on it.
To support the Wild Felid Advocacy Center during this time, donations can be made directly to the sanctuary’s website, helping them cover the costs of care and recovery for the surviving cats.
