Big Cat Habitat Mistaken For Soon-To-Close Big Cat Rescue Remains Open In Sarasota

SARASOTA, FL — In a case of mistaken identity, a Sarasota animal rescue is quashing rumors that it's closing.

Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary in Sarasota is often mistaken for Big Cat Rescue in Tampa, which recently announced its closure, the Suncoast-area nonprofit said in a news release.

"Tiger King" star Carole Baskin announced earlier this month that her 30-year-old Big Cat Rescue is closing, likely by this summer, and her tigers and other big cats will be sent to a wildlife refuge in Arkansas. She and her husband will focus their efforts on saving wild tigers from extinction.

But Big Cat Habitat isn't going anywhere. Despite the similarity in names often causing confusion, there's "absolutely no connection" between the two organizations, Big Cat Habitat said.

“People think we are closing, and we need to let them know we are here to stay. Our commitment since 1987 has been to provide a home to our animals for the rest of their lives, and we plan to continue honoring that commitment,” Kay Rosaire, founder, said. “The land will never be of more value to us than the animals. Every animal here has a name, gets our love and attention, and receives the best physical care and enrichment we can provide.”

Founded in 1987, Big Cat Habitat is home to more than 300 exotic and domestic animals in need. This includes 62 species, more than 50 big cats and a dozen bears.

The nonprofit, located at 7101 Palmer Blvd., recently expanded its footprint onto 10 acres of adjacent land. This area houses the organization's new conservation center.

The Big Cat Habitat is open to the public. All admissions are used for the care of the animal, as well as educational programming on species and habitat preservation.

Upcoming special events at the nonprofit include:

• Brunch & Big Cats, April 22, 10 a.m. to noon, with brunch, mimosas and yoga with tigers
• Wild Market, April 29, 9 a.m., featuring local vendors and businesses
• Lemur yoga, May 7
• Fox yoga, May 7
• Mother's Day Brunch & Big Cats, May 14
• Liger Luau, June 17, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.