Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge recently welcomed two tigers, Sebastian and Shakira, to their forever home after the closure of Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary in Ste. Genevieve, Mo.
“The transfer took place Tuesday, Oct. 7, ensuring both animals will continue to receive the highest standard of lifetime care at TCWR,” according to a news release from Turpentine Creek announcing the additions.
The transfer marks the second time in two years that an accredited big cat sanctuary has chosen Turpentine Creek to provide safe, permanent placement for its animals. In 2023, TCWR partnered with Big Cat Rescue to create Freedom Field, a new expansion designed to give rescued and rehomed big cats lifelong sanctuary.
“Sanctuaries face difficult realities when funding, leadership, or succession change,” said Tanya Smith, president and founder of Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. “We are honored that once again, another respected facility placed their trust in us to carry forward their animals’ care. Every placement decision like this reaffirms our mission – to provide forever homes where animals’ futures are never in question.”
Both of the new tigers from Missouri have personal histories that intertwine with TCWR’s residents, according to the sanctuary’s release.
Sebastian was among the animals rescued during the 2021 federal operation at Tiger King Park in Thackerville, Okla. He was originally placed at Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary, while his suspected mate, Priscilla, came to TCWR.
Shortly after arriving, Priscilla gave birth to three cubs — Rosie, DOJ, and Jinx — who are believed to be Sebastian’s offspring, according to the release.
Shakira, born in 2010, shares a special connection to TCWR through her sister, Jasmine II, who has called Eureka Springs home since 2018.
The two were once housed together at Wright Park Zoo in Dodge City, Kan., before being separated for placement at different sanctuaries.
“These are not just transfers – they are reunions of family lines and second chances at peace,” said Emily McCormack, animal curator at TCWR. “We’re thrilled to bring Sebastian and Shakira home, where their stories will continue alongside the cats they’re connected to.”
The two tigers have been spending recent days acclimating to their new habitats under the supervision of TCWR’s animal care and veterinary teams, according to the news release. Once settled, the refuge will introduce them to the public through its education programs and digital storytelling efforts.