Northern Arizona Sanctuary Rescues Seven Big Cats from Tiger King Park as Part of Large-Scale Rescue Operation

Jeff Lowe’s Big Cats Dispersed Among Reputable U.S. Sanctuaries

Valentine, AZ

Established in 1995, Keepers of the Wild is an accredited non-profit wildlife sanctuary and nature park, founded and directed by Jonathan Kraft. The sanctuary, currently home to approximately 150 wild animals, worked closely this last week with the U.S. Department of Justice and several other accredited sanctuaries to execute a large-scale rescue of 69 endangered big cats at Tiger King Park in Thackerville, Oklahoma. The cats included lions, tigers, lion-tiger hybrid species, and a single jaguar, all of which were removed from Jeff and Lauren Lowe’s Oklahoma facility due to “ongoing Endangered Species Act violations.”

Keepers of the Wild is caring for seven of the 69 cats while the U.S. Department of Justice seeks permanent forfeiture of the animals. The cats will receive the utmost veterinary care, top-notch diets, daily enrichment opportunities, and large natural habitats to roam in while at the Arizona facility. Keepers’ Founder and Director, Jonathan Kraft, commented on the rescue: “We are so grateful to have the opportunity to care for these wonderful animals and to work with federal agencies and other accredited sanctuaries to help rescue and protect endangered animals. Thank you to all the sanctuaries involved in this operation, for your professionalism, kindness, and cooperation. It took a skilled team of many people to make this happen.”

With a strong focus on educating the public about animal welfare issues, endangered species, and indigenous wildlife, Keepers of the Wild is open to the public and conducts educational no-contact guided tours three times daily. To learn more about the history and mission, hours of operation, and how to help support the animals at Keepers of the Wild, please visit: https://www.keepersofthewild.org

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