The Big Cat Sanctuary
Smarden, United Kingdom
4,8
(2.859)
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About The Big Cat Sanctuary
The Big Cat Sanctuary at Smarden in Kent is a breeding and rescue centre for wild cats rather than a general zoo, run by the Wildlife Heritage Foundation and open to the public only on booked open days and experiences. It holds around 33 cats across 15 species, including Amur and Sumatran tigers, Amur leopards, snow leopards, clouded leopards, jaguars, cheetahs, pumas, Eurasian lynx and a group of African lionesses rescued from a breeding facility in wartime Ukraine.
The smaller cats are the unusual part of the collection - servals, a fishing cat, a bobcat, an Asian golden cat and a Sri Lankan rusty-spotted cat, the smallest cat species in the world. It is a sister charity to Hertfordshire Zoo.
health and well-being.
It includes giving animals proper food, clean living spaces, medical care, and treating them with respect.
These standards help make sure animals live safe, healthy, and stress-free lives.
Visitors can park in the designated parking area near the entrance of the sanctuary. Parking is free, but it is advisable to arrive early on open days as spaces can fill up quickly. Be sure to follow any posted signs for parking regulations.
- The sanctuary offers experience packages that include overnight stays and photography workshops.
- Tours are limited to six guests to ensure a respectful environment for the animals.
- Food and dining options are available on-site, with recipes provided by celebrity ambassador Paul Hollywood.
- Photography is encouraged during experience packages, but be mindful of the animals' comfort.
- Check the sanctuary's website for specific open days and booking requirements.
- Home to 50 big cats across 15 species.
- The sanctuary has 40 enclosures designed to match wild habitats.
- In winter, the sanctuary feeds its cats around 800 kilograms of food per week.
- It contributed £20,000 to global conservation efforts in 2018.
- The sanctuary's open days provide 25% of its funding.
Paid Experiences
Keeper Experience
Description
Get up close with the big cats and learn from the experts about their care and conservation.
Feeding Experience
Description
Participate in feeding sessions with the big cats and discover their dietary needs and habits.
Behind-the-Scenes Tour
Description
Explore areas of the sanctuary not open to the public and learn about the daily operations.
Overnight Stay
Description
Experience a night at the sanctuary, with exclusive access to the big cats and nighttime activities.
Photos are illustrative and do not depict the actual experience or animals at this zoo. We do our best to keep experience details accurate, but always check with the zoo directly for the latest information.