4 New Big Cats Come To Popcorn Park Zoo

FORKED RIVER, NJ — The Associated Humane Societies Popcorn Park Animal Refuge recently welcomed four new big cats: two lions and two tigers are now under the rescue's care.

Popcorn Park welcomed the animals on July 26 after two years of planning. The cats came from the now-closed Cherry Brook Zoo in Canada, and have waited at the Granby Zoo also in Canada until their Lacey arrival could be arranged.

The African lions are brother and sister and are both 8-years-old, while the female and male tigers are 7 and 8, respectively.

"After two years of preparation and planning, we are so excited to finally have all four of these animals in the sanctuary of Popcorn Park, where they will receive refuge for the rest of their lives," the refuge said in a release.

"These cats will be a welcome addition to the over 200 animals we provide refuge to. More importantly, they will provide an educational experience to the nearly 100,000 people who visit us annually. It is gratifying to know that Popcorn Park’s reputation for sanctuary to wildlife in need extends beyond our country’s borders," said Jerry Rosenthal, CEO of Associated Humane Societies.

You can't see the cats just yet, though. The animals are still being treated by Popcorn Park's medical team and staff. "We ask that visitors to the Refuge be understanding and respectful during their time of transition, as we try to minimize their stress and establish new daily routines," Popcorn Park officials said.

In the meantime, AHS wants you to offer new names for these cats to give them a fresh start on life. Visit here for more information on the naming contest.

"It has been a very long journey for these four cats. Finally, just shy of two years, we are so excited and relieved that they are now in their forever homes. We are so thankful for the collaboration of Zoo de Granby who provided excellent care since their arrival from Cherry Brook a little over a year ago, and In-Sync Exotics who made the trip from Texas to Canada to provide transportation to their permanent home. Special thanks to Senator Raymond Lesniak for his perseverance in helping relocate these cats to New Jersey. This relocation would not have been possible without the tremendous support of Tigers in America. We are honored that these four animals will be sharing the rest of their lives with us and looking forward to them settling into our Popcorn Park family," John Bergmann, executive director of Popcorn Park, said.

All four cats will join Popcorn Park's Wildlife Club and will be available for sponsorship. People can also donate through their Big Cat Rescue Fund. This addition nearly doubles the refuge's big cat population - as well as their expenses.

An official welcoming ceremony for the cats will be held on Sept. 10, when Popcorn Park Animal Refuge celebrates its 45th year of operation with a special anniversary event.