Went to a big cat sanctuary yesterday run by the WHF. It's not usually open to the public, but has photographic days to help cover the cost of keeping the cats. For this they allow you inside the distance barriers and there is only wide guage mesh fencing between you and the animals. The cats are not tame, but are kept as part of the world-wide breeding programme for endangered species.
We're not really supposed to, but I took the opportunity to pet a couple of the cats while I was there!
I stroked a female Amur Tiger called Indy through the fencing! She deliberately plopped herself right down beside me on the other side, with her body pressed against the fence! Her coat was surprisingly silky and smooth, and very thick! I also managed to cheek-rub a Snow Leopard! She was beautiful, and again so very, very soft!! She purposefully approached me and butted my hand through the fence
These cats are not used to big crowds like safari or zoo animals, and are generally quite curious about visitors, so it gives a brilliant opportunity to get up close and personal, although most people there just jumped away when a big cat approached them. Not me though lol! They're just big pussy cats, after all! The Amur Leopards were ones to avoid though - very aggressive.
Last time I was there I managed to pet a lion which was astounding - spent ages rubbing his mane and behind his ears, and even stroked his nose! He scrunched up his eyes and did a lion purr!
I'll try to post some pics over the next few days!
