About the "Taxi Cats"

Guidelines for Visitors

Touching Policy: Only visually impaired and other disabled individuals are allowed to touch the taxidermy mounts during guided tours. This policy ensures the preservation of these educational tools for future visitors.

Educational Importance: These taxidermy displays serve as valuable educational resources, helping us raise awareness about the conservation of these magnificent animals and the challenges they face in the wild.

Conservation Message: Each animal has a story that highlights the importance of wildlife conservation and ethical animal care. By learning about these species, we hope to inspire our visitors to support conservation efforts and advocate for the protection of wildlife around the world.

For more information about our educational programs and how you can support Cat Tales Wildlife Center, please visit our website or speak with one of our staff members.

1. Bengal Tiger 

Scientific Name: Panthera tigris tigris

Their Story: Our Bengal tigers were born in captivity and lived long lives here at Cat Tales. Known for its striking orange coat with black stripes, this majestic tiger was an ambassador for the species, helping us educate visitors about tigers' challenges in the wild.

2. African Lion 

Scientific Name: Panthera leo

Their Story: The African lion in our display was a working lion in film until his retirement. His powerful roar and majestic mane made him a favorite among visitors. Lions are social animals, often called the "king of the jungle."

3. Black Jaguar 

Scientific Name: Panthera onca

Their Story: Our black jaguar, with its sleek, dark coat, was a striking example of this powerful and elusive species. He came to us in a zoo species exchange with a spotted leopard.

4. Black Leopard

Scientific Name: Panthera pardus 

Their Story: The black leopard, also known as a black panther, was rejected by her mother and was hand-raised. Known for its melanistic coat, which appears black but is patterned with rosettes, this leopard symbolized the beauty and mystery of big cats.

5. Asian Leopard 

Scientific Name: Panthera pardus

Their Story: Our spotted leopard was part of an endangered species breeding program. With his golden coat and distinctive spots, he helped us teach visitors about the adaptability and resilience of leopards in diverse habitats.

6. Liger 

Scientific Name: Panthera leo and Panthera tigris hybrid

Their Story: The liger, a hybrid of a lion and a tiger, was a unique resident of Cat Tales. This rare animal helped us discuss the ethical considerations of breeding hybrids and the importance of conservation efforts for pure species.

7. Puma (Cougar, Mountain Lion) 

Scientific Name: Puma concolor

Their Story: Our puma was a wild one hit by a car when crossing the highway. Known for its adaptability across the Americas, the puma is a key species in our educational programs about North American wildlife.

8. Bobcat 

Scientific Name: Lynx rufus

Their Story: The bobcat in our collection was one of the first small cats to call Cat Tales home. Its tufted ears and spotted coat provided a close-up look at a species that often goes unseen in the wild due to its elusive nature.

9. African Serval 

Scientific Name: Leptailurus serval 

Their Story: Our serval was surrendered by an owner who could not meet its needs. With its long legs and large ears, this serval showcased the unique adaptations of African cats to savanna life.