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The Central Florida Animal Reserve (CFAR) is a big cat and wildlife sanctuary housing over 40 big cats. We believe in the research and application of effective stewardship techniques. Our goal is to emphasize meaningful coexistence with our animal residents and use those relationship to educate the public at large. We engage the world of the big cats through our mottos:
COMPASSION. CONSERVATION. COMMITMENT.
The Central Florida Animal Reserve (CFAR) is dedicated to the preservation of the “great” cats. This non-profit facility serves big cats that would otherwise not have a home. We are on a mission to preserve these magnificent animals and to act as stewards for their care and well being. At CFAR, when it comes to big cats, it’s about vision.
More Questions?
Please note: Because we have a very small staff, the most efficient way to reach us is via email. If you cannot find an answer to your question on our website, you are welcome to call (321)-637-0110. Just be aware that it may take us up to 24 hours to respond. We appreciate your understanding.
Contact us
Can I come see your residents? What are your hours of operation?
We are working diligently to get the new facility ready for private tours, but we’re still at our current location, which is not open to the public.
Support our Move effort to help us bring this experience to Osceola County.
Members receive invitations to visit the facility for Member Day. If you’d like to have an enhanced experience, consider our
Keeper for a Day program.
Where do these animals come from?
Some of our animals come from pet situations, some were rescues, some born at the facility prior to CFAR’s inception, and others from governmental agencies. No cats at the facility were wild-born.
How do you rescue a big cat?
Rescue is traditionally the practice of taking cats out of a poor situation and bringing them to a better situation. Big cats require specialized care which must be maintained over the course of their lives–in some cases up to 20 years. Failure to recognize this long-term commitment can result in big cats under the care of people who cannot fulfill the obligation. We provide our residents the safety, security, and daily care necessary to maintain a positive quality of life–and develop methods that will allow us to accommodate other cats in need.
While the actual numbers are debated, the big cat population in the United States is comparable to that of the wild. This is especially true of tigers. The organization exists to provide big cats a home to live out their lives surrounded by individuals dedicated to their needs. The relationships developed through this care are used to educate the public and bring attention to the issues surrounding big cats.
What makes you different than a zoo?
Most zoos are organizations that are accredited by the American Zoological Association (AZA) that sets standards amongst its members. There is no single definitive accreditation that meets our unique mission.
See
‘Volunteering’ for more information. Please note: volunteers must be over the age of 18 to do on-site work.
What do you do with these cats?
Daily care is the largest component of our activities. That includes feeding, watering, facility maintenance, and enrichment activities.
Is it true that you will be going to Forever Florida?
Sort of. CFAR and Forever Florida will remain separate entities, but we will be occupying a neighboring space to the eco-tourism park. Our facility will be located close to 441 in an area that has already been impacted to preserve and protect the existing natural ecosystems.
I heard you have to move the facility. Why?
The Brevard Board of County Commissioners made the decision after a lengthy process to provide us with a timeframe to remove the facility from its current location due to zoning issues. This coincides with our need to expand our operation to accomplish our educational and outreach goals.
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