ZooWashington, US

Cat Tales Wildlife Center

Cat Tales Wildlife Center provides a forever home for rescued exotic animals.

About

Cat Tales Wildlife Center provides a forever home for rescued exotic animals. This non-profit big cat sanctuary and wildlife rescue center in Mead, Washington, offers a unique opportunity to connect with wildlife that cannot be re-released into the wild, emphasizing compassionate care, educational ambassadorship, and lifelong sanctuary. Beyond being a licensed zoological park, Cat Tales also houses a respected Wildlife Academy, training future zookeepers and wildlife professionals in ethical animal care.

Visitors can encounter a diverse collection of rescued animals, primarily focusing on magnificent felines such as Siberian Tigers (Koshka and Sestra), White Tigers (Nalin), and Bengal Tigers (Tigger), known for his friendly "chuff." Other captivating residents include Black Bear Oscar, who you can even feed, and the energetic African Serval Ozzy, an ambassador highlighting the challenges of exotic pet ownership. You'll also find native North American species like Bobcats (including Ricky, an orphaned bobcat thriving at the center), Cougars (Pumas), Canada and Carpathian Lynx, Foxes, Coyotes, Wolves, and Raccoons. The close-up viewing opportunities, some from as near as 15 feet, allow for intimate observations of animal behavior and the chance to witness daily feeding presentations.

A visit to Cat Tales Wildlife Center is an enriching experience, offering a memorable journey into the world of wildlife rescue and conservation. It's a chance to learn about the stories of resilience behind each animal and understand the vital role sanctuaries play in providing second chances. Through self-guided tours and engaging educational programs, guests gain appreciation for these incredible creatures while supporting the center's mission of rescue, care, and education. Be ready to snap and learn! Get the Snappit app to identify any nature species you find here.

Cat Tales Wildlife Center was founded in 1991 by Mike and Debbie Wyche in Mead, Washington. What began as a passionate, home-based sanctuary caring for four cats quickly evolved into a recognized center for wildlife rescue and education. Over its more than 30-year history, the center, formerly known as Cat Tales Zoological Park, has rescued over 100 cats, including lions, tigers, and bobcats, as well as other wildlife like coyotes, foxes, wolves, and bears. Today, it is proudly operated by co-founder Debbie Wyche and her stepdaughter, Lisa Grey, continuing its commitment to providing lifelong care for non-releasable wildlife and operating a licensed Wildlife Academy.

What to do here

Enjoy self-guided wildlife viewing at your own pace. Consider enhancing your visit with an "Animal Encounter" – for an additional fee, you can feed Oscar the Black Bear, specific big cats like Tigger, Koshka, Sestra, or Nalin, or participate in a fox feeding. Explore the gift shop for souvenirs that support the center's mission.

Seasonal info

Summer brings special events and camps like "Wild Pathways Discovery Camp." In October, the "Boo at the Zoo" event offers Halloween-themed enrichment activities for the animals and visitors. Winter months may have fewer open days and shorter hours, so it's advisable to check their website before planning a winter visit.

Accessibility

Cat Tales features outdoor gravel and hard-packed pathways throughout much of the facility. While many areas are accessible for strollers and mobility devices, be aware that uneven terrain and seasonal weather conditions might affect ease of travel in some spots. The center is ADA accessible and welcomes trained service animals, though they encourage contacting them prior to your visit for guidance on ensuring the safest experience for everyone.

Don't miss

Don't miss the impressive big cat enclosures, featuring various tigers, cougars, and lynx. Be sure to seek out Oscar the Black Bear and the charismatic African Serval, Ozzy. The daily feeding presentations offer insights into animal behavior.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Duck

Canada Goose

Trumpeter Swan

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Arrive Early

The animals are often most active in the morning, and earlier visits provide better chances for participating in animal feeding encounters.

Wear Comfortable Footwear

The paths are a mix of gravel and hard-packed terrain, so comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the facility.

Consider an Animal Encounter

For a truly unique and memorable experience, consider purchasing an animal feeding encounter ticket upon arrival.

Check Seasonal Schedule

Animal activity and center hours can vary by season, and special events occur throughout the year. Always check their official website for the most current information before your visit.

Photography Etiquette

Photography is encouraged, but avoid using flash during close encounters or educational presentations to ensure the comfort and safety of the animals.

Support Their Mission

Your visit directly supports the care of these rescued animals. Consider visiting the gift shop or exploring their animal sponsorship programs to contribute further to their vital work.

Frequently asked questions

: Cat Tales Wildlife Center is home to a variety of rescued animals, with a strong focus on big cats such as Siberian, White, and Bengal Tigers, Cougars (Pumas), Bobcats, and Lynx. You can also see Black Bears, African Servals, Foxes, Coyotes, Wolves, and Raccoons. Each animal has a unique rescue story.
: Yes, Cat Tales Wildlife Center is committed to being ADA accessible. Many areas with outdoor gravel and hard-packed pathways are accessible for strollers and mobility devices. They also permit trained service animals, though guests are encouraged to contact the center in advance to help facilitate a safe and enjoyable visit.
: Cat Tales offers special "Animal Encounters" where, for an additional fee, visitors can participate in feeding experiences with select big cats, black bears (like Oscar), and foxes. These protected-contact encounters provide unique educational opportunities to observe animal behavior up close. Participation is always voluntary for the animals.