Atlas

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Meet Atlas: A Story of Rescue and Redemption

Atlas's journey to Lions Tigers & Bears began in Montana, where he started life as a young bobcat in the care of a private owner. Purchased as a kitten, he lived indoors alongside dogs and a domestic cat, sharing a life meant for a house pet. But as Atlas grew, his wild instincts grew stronger, reminding everyone around him that he was not meant for the confines of a home.

Recognizing Atlas's need for a life more suited to his true nature, his owner eventually made a courageous decision. Understanding that Atlas deserved to roam freely and express his wild instincts, his owner reached out to Lions Tigers & Bears for assistance. It was a heartfelt plea for Atlas to find a place where he could rediscover what it means to be a bobcat.

Adapting to Sanctuary Life

Upon arriving at Lions Tigers & Bears, Atlas faced a new chapter in his life. Efforts were made to integrate him with other bobcats, hoping to provide him with companionship and a sense of belonging among his own kind. However, Atlas, with his independent spirit, showed that he preferred solitude and the freedom to explore at his own pace.

Support Atlas's Journey

Today, Atlas thrives in his sanctuary home, where he can climb, explore, and bask in the sun, just as nature intended. His journey is a testament to the importance of providing proper care and respect for wild animals, and that wild animals do not make good pets.

You can be a part of Atlas's ongoing journey by sponsoring him at Lions Tigers & Bears. Your support helps provide Atlas with daily care, enrichment activities, and veterinary attention, ensuring he continues to live his best life in sanctuary.

Watch Atlas's Incredible Story

Milestones

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Spring 2018
Atlas’s journey to Lions Tigers & Bears began when his owner recognized his need for a life more suited to his wild instincts and reached out to the sanctuary for assistance.

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Arrival at Sanctuary
Upon arrival at Lions Tigers & Bears, Atlas began a new chapter, with efforts to integrate him with other bobcats. However, his independent spirit showed that he preferred solitude.

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Ongoing Care
Atlas thrives at the sanctuary, where he can roam freely, climb, and bask in the sun, living life in alignment with his natural instincts.

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Today
Today, Atlas continues to thrive, and supporters can contribute to his ongoing care and well-being by sponsoring him, ensuring he receives daily care, enrichment, and veterinary attention

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Meet Our Other Residents

Maddie

Meet Maddie, Our Black Bear Maddie's story begins with her being purchased as a cub, intended to be a family pet for a 3-year-old child in Ohio. However, as she grew to full size, the family made plans to sell her to a canned hunt game ranch for a mere sum of less than $200. […]

Learn more Sponsor Maddie

Denali

Denali's life began as a privately-owned pet and later rescued from an unaccredited sanctuary. He was originally purchased by a man who claimed to have acquired a litter of Serval kittens from a roadside zoo. As Denali rapidly grew, reaching double the size of a domestic cat, his family soon realized that they could no […]

Learn more Sponsor Denali

Gizmo

Remembering Gizmo, Our First Bobcat We sadly said goodbye to one of our first residents, Gizmo the bobcat in September 2016. Gizmo was arguably the smartest cat at Lions Tigers & Bears, and he knew it! He liked to do whatever he wanted, whenever he wanted, and especially loved trying to outsmart his keepers. He […]

Learn more Sponsor Gizmo

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FAQ's

What do bobcats eat?

Bobcats are carnivores and have a diverse diet that includes rabbits, rodents, birds, and even deer. They are skilled hunters, using stealth and patience to ambush their prey.

Where do bobcats live?

Bobcats are native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, deserts, swamps, and even suburban areas. They are highly adaptable and thrive in diverse environments across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

How long do bobcats live?

In the wild, bobcats typically live 7-10 years, but in captivity, they can live up to 20 years with proper care, nutrition, and medical attention.

Are bobcats social animals?

No, bobcats are typically solitary animals. They establish and defend their own territories, only coming together briefly during mating season. Each bobcat marks its territory with scent markings and scratches.

How fast can bobcats run?

Bobcats can run up to 30 mph (48 km/h) in short bursts, usually when chasing prey or escaping danger. However, they rely more on stealth, climbing, and quick reflexes than long-distance speed.

Are bobcats endangered?

Bobcats are not currently endangered and are classified as a species of "Least Concern." However, habitat destruction, hunting, and the fur trade pose threats to some local populations. Conservation efforts help protect them from unnecessary harm.

How many bobcats are in captivity?

The exact number is unknown, but thousands of bobcats are kept in captivity, including in zoos, sanctuaries, and private ownership. Unfortunately, many are exploited for their fur, used in the pet trade, or kept in inadequate conditions. Ethical sanctuaries, like Lions Tigers & Bears, rescue bobcats from neglect and provide them with proper care for life.

Watch More Videos on Bobcats

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The Dangers of Cub Petting: Why It's Harmful and Unethical | Lions Tigers & Bears

Captivity Cruelty: The Dark Side of Private Wildlife Ownership | Lions Tigers & Bears | San Diego

An Urgent Crisis: Unraveling the Impact of the Illegal Wildlife Trade | Lions Tigers & Bears

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