A devastating bird flu outbreak has struck the Wild Felid Advocacy Center, located in Shelton, Washington, resulting in the deaths of 20 big cats over the course of several weeks. The nonprofit sanctuary confirmed the horrific toll taken by the virus, stating it has lost more than half of its animal population, which includes cougars, bobcats, and even an Amur-Bengal tiger.
Director Mark Mathews described the experience as traumatic, likening it to being "in a war zone." The sanctuary, which was previously open for tours, is now under quarantine to prevent any potential spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), commonly referred to as bird flu. Visitors have been barred from the facility until the outbreak is contained and measures are taken to clean and disinfect the premises.
The crisis initiated shortly before Thanksgiving, with the first large cat casualty recorded on November 23, 2024. The first infected feline was a 17-year-old cougar named Hannah Wyoming, who displayed symptoms and passed away the next day. The illness caught the sanctuary off guard, as the cats live on spacious grounds with separated enclosures, aimed at preventing disease transmission.
According to reports, the likely modes of transmission remain uncertain. The Wild Felid Advocacy Center speculates the birds might have infected the cats via respiratory secretions or if contaminated meat was fed to them. The strong potential of interaction with birds nesting nearby has raised alarm among staff, as waterfowl are known carriers of the virus.
Mark Mathews mentioned, "We thought we were doing everything we could to avoid anything like this from happening." Tragically, losses continued as other cats followed Hannah to their demise, including species such as 4 cougars, 4 bobcats, 2 lynx, and several servals, culminating to 20 felines taken by the devastating disease.
The abrupt mortality of the cats has had immense emotional repercussions on the remaining staff members who have taken to supporting each other through this challenging phase. One staff member described the overwhelming feeling of loss as devastating, stating, "It just feels terrible... something unforeseen takes its toll real fast." The sanctuary has since removed about 8,000 pounds of stored food and is working round the clock to follow strict cleaning procedures to combat any residual threats.
The financial strain stemming from this disaster does not go unnoticed. The sanctuary has issued urgent appeals for donations to assist with the mounting medical costs of the remaining cats under their care, as the medical expenses, even at discounted rates, have become significant challenges for the already struggling nonprofit. “This tragedy has deeply affected our team, and we are all grieving the loss of these incredible animals,” the sanctuary stated plaintively.
Beyond their immediate troubles, the bird flu situation has broader ramifications across the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed rising avian influenza infections across various states, including California, where the situation provoked Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency concerning the spread among dairy cattle. Reports of the bird flu have extended to concerns over its reach to other mammals as well, including the first severe human case reported this month caused by interaction with infected backyard poultry.
Aside from the significant loss among big cats, the sanctuary's plight is echoed throughout the wildlife community. Staci Lehman, from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, stated, "Its spread has affected thousands of wild birds and mammals just this year," underscoring the urgency and magnitude of bird flu's impact.
Despite the heartbreak, the sanctuary remains steadfast. Mark Mathews expressed hope for recovery, stating, “We hope to reopen soon and will do everything necessary to protect our remaining animals.” Currently, the remaining 17 felines are under close watch as the team coordinates with veterinary services and health authorities to maintain best practices for animal welfare.
The bird flu outbreak has undeniably shaken the Wild Felid Advocacy Center and calls to the community for assistance have intensified as they look to navigate through this unprecedented crisis. Residents and animal lovers alike are reminded of the fragile balance between wildlife and environmental health and the need for vigilance as they strive to support those affected by this tragic situation.
While the future remains uncertain, the sanctuary's staff emphasizes the resilience of their remaining cats and the dedication of their mission to protect and rehabilitate wild felines, ensuring such tragedies are carefully managed as they prepare to fight another day.
