Community Big Cat Habitat Offers Special Holiday Hours

SARASOTA – In addition to its regular hours Wednesday through Sunday, Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary, a nonprofit safe haven for big cats, bears and other animals in need, will be open Monday, Dec. 24, and Monday, Dec. 31, for the holidays. Two more special photo sessions with Santa and Samson, the white tiger, are scheduled for this Saturday and Sunday, Dec.  22 and 23.

The sanctuary was founded by Kay Rosaire, who has more than 30 years of experience working with, and caring for, exotic animals and who began rescuing big cats in 1987.  Big Cat Habitat provides education to the public to foster appreciation for the animals and to impart the importance of habitat preservation.

Gates are open from 12:30 to 4 p.m. for exotic and other animal tours and a petting zoo. A special educational animal demonstration begins at 1:30 p.m. The Habitat is regularly open Wednesday through Sunday. It is located at 7101 Palmer Blvd., Sarasota. Donations are $15 for adults and $7 for children 12 and under. Refreshments also are available. For more information and to check daily hours before visiting, see www.BigCatHabitat.org/calendar or call 941-371-6377.

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