“We look forward to this race each year,” says Zoo Director Phil Frost. “The zoo is a spectacular backdrop for a 5K race or a power walk. Our race route takes you through the core of the zoo. [It] has great shade and beautifully landscaped yards—plus you get to catch a glimpse of our bears, giraffes, monkeys and flamingos.”
In previous years, only a portion of the registration proceeds was devoted to conservation. Now, all funds from the 5K and Kids’ Fun Run support international efforts to save threatened and endangered animals—especially cheetahs.
Native to sub-Saharan Africa, cheetahs reach speeds of up to 70 mph. So it’s no surprise they are revered as the fastest land mammal on the planet. Unfortunately, these big cats are disappearing so fast from their natural habitat that they are listed as a vulnerable species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources Red List.
While they are most sociable of the big cats, these beautiful creatures hunt mid-sized antelopes during the day to avoid other nocturnal predators. That competition for food and persecution by farmers protecting their livestock are the biggest threats to the wild population. International efforts are underway to help protect this spotted species.
Fortunately, Baton Rougeans don’t have to travel far to get a glimpse of this exotic animal. The zoo received a pair of cheetahs—13-year-old mother and her 2-year-old daughter—from the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden in 2013. These gorgeous girls are still receiving roaring reviews even in this Tiger town.
Creature feature
If a zoo visit inspires you to find a feline friend of your own, Cat Haven has plenty of cuddly cats and kittens including:
Chunks is a 4-month-old male Siamese mix. This sweet, playful kitty was born to a stray and taken in by a nice family until he was ready to find his own home. Chunks gets along well with children of all ages and other kitties. He is pretty darn cute, too.
Hailey is a 2-year-old dilute torti. She was rescued outside of an office building with her sister. Hailey gets along very well with other cats and dogs. She is best suited to a home without small children.
Fantasia is a 2-year-old calico. As a pregnant stray, Fantasia found the perfect spot to have her kittens—on a back porch in a box of clothes waiting to be picked up for donation. When the homeowners discovered her, they knew the little cat family deserved good homes. So, they brought Fantasia and her litter to Cat Haven. Fantasia is very friendly and gets along with kids and other cats.
Zeek is a 3-year-old large, black-and-white longhaired mix. Zeek and his sister, Mischief, had a good life with their elderly owner, who unfortunately passed away. Since the family was unable to keep cats, they brought both to Cat Haven. Zeek is a friendly kitty who gets along well with other cats.
Mischief is a 3-year-old longhaired female silver tabby mix. Mischief and her brother, Zeek, had a good life with their elderly owner, who unfortunately passed away. Since the family was unable to keep cats, they brought both to Cat Haven. Mischief is a friendly kitty who gets along well with other cats.
Franz is a 7-year-old orange tabby. This sweet guy is very friendly and quiet. He gets along well with other cats and dogs. He tends to be somewhat submissive to other animals. So if Franz goes to a home with other pets, they need to be gentle animals. He is also best suited to a home without small children.
These pets have all been vaccinated, spayed/neutered and FeLeuk/FIV tested. Many other adoptable cats and kittens are available for viewing online, or call the shelter to make an appointment at 636-2680.