In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the welfare of big cats in captivity in the United States. A recent article by Undark Magazine titled „Are 20,000 Big Cats Caged in the U.S.? Highly Unlikely.“ sheds light on this issue and debunks the claim that there are 20,000 big cats being kept in captivity in the country.
The article begins by addressing the origins of this claim, which can be traced back to a statement made by Carole Baskin, the founder of Big Cat Rescue, a sanctuary for big cats in Florida. Baskin claimed that there are 20,000 big cats being kept in captivity in the U.S., including tigers, lions, and other exotic felines. This alarming figure sparked outrage among animal rights activists and prompted calls for stricter regulations on the ownership of big cats.
However, as the article points out, the claim that there are 20,000 big cats caged in the U.S. is highly unlikely. The article cites data from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which estimates that there are around 5,000 tigers being kept in captivity in the country. While this number is still concerning, it is far lower than the 20,000 figure that was initially reported.
The article goes on to explain that the majority of big cats in captivity in the U.S. are not kept in zoos or accredited sanctuaries, but rather in private ownership. This raises concerns about the welfare of these animals, as many private owners lack the resources and expertise to properly care for big cats. In some cases, these animals are kept in inadequate enclosures and may suffer from neglect or abuse.
The article also highlights the issue of breeding big cats in captivity, which can contribute to the overpopulation of these animals. Breeding big cats for commercial purposes, such as selling cubs to roadside zoos or private collectors, only exacerbates the problem of big cats being kept in captivity.
In conclusion, the article emphasizes the need for stricter regulations on the ownership and breeding of big cats in the U.S. While the exact number of big cats in captivity may be difficult to determine, it is clear that there are significant welfare concerns surrounding these animals. By raising awareness about this issue and advocating for stronger protections for big cats, we can work towards ensuring a better future for these majestic creatures.
