Western Cape wildfires force big cat relocation
Following last week’s Western Cape wildfires, Panthera Africa, a big cat sanctuary in Stanford, relocated 18 predators to partner facilities. An elderly tiger rescued from the illegal bone trade died after smoke inhalation and sedation, and two other animals sustained burns. A one-eyed tiger, Arabella, briefly disappeared in the smoke but was later located safely in its enclosure.
Founder, Lizaene Cornwall said staff managed to move most cats unharmed, noting the sanctuary does not breed, trade or allow interaction and provides lifetime care for rescued animals that cannot be returned to the wild. Four enclosures were destroyed and three partially damaged, jeopardising operations that rely on educational tourism. The sanctuary has appealed for funds to cover staff salaries, veterinary bills and ongoing animal care as investigators probe the fire’s cause amid 80 km/h winds and multiple regional blazes.
Source: The South African
