Mountain Lion and Bear Rescued and Welcomed to PAWS Sanctuary in California

The Performing Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), well-known for its dedicated efforts in animal rescue and rehabilitation, celebrated the arrival of two new residents at its sanctuary in San Andreas, California, on March 19, 2025. An 11-year-old female black bear and a 13-year-old female mountain lion have found a safe haven after being rescued from a distressing situation.

These animals were seized by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) during a criminal investigation concerning violations of animal welfare laws as per the California Fish and Game Code. Both animals were among several from the Barry R. Kirshner Wildlife Foundation in Butte County, where captivity conditions had reached unacceptable levels. This facility had previously held a permit for keeping both native and exotic wildlife, but it expired at the end of 2024 and its renewal was denied, which ultimately initiated the rescue operation.

Ed Stewart, the Co-founder and Board President of PAWS, expressed his commitment to providing lifelong sanctuary for these animals. “For more than 40 years, PAWS has provided safe refuge for captive wild animals in need,” he stated. “These animals will have a lifelong home at our sanctuary.”

Dr. Jackie Gai, the Director of Veterinary Services at PAWS, highlighted the organization’s eagerness to learn about the new residents' individual personalities. She promised personalized care tailored to meet the specific needs of these animals. This personal touch is vital, as the psychological and physical well-being of rescued animals is often crucial for their recovery and adaptation to sanctuary life.

The incident that led to their rescue isn't a unique case; it reflects broader issues in animal welfare within captivity environments. Catherine Doyle, PAWS’ Director of Science, Research, and Public Policy, commended the decisive action taken by the CDFW to ensure the welfare of captive wildlife. “Places like this should be a thing of the past,” she noted, emphasizing the ongoing campaign for improved standards in wild animal care.

This isn’t the first time PAWS has taken in animals from the Barry R. Kirshner Wildlife Foundation. Last year, the organization welcomed Cleo, a tiger cub who had severe health issues due to inadequate nutrition during her time in captivity. The expert care and nutrition provided by PAWS have enabled Cleo to regain her strength and become an active, playful resident at the sanctuary.

As part of their ongoing effort, PAWS is also preparing to welcome a third animal from the CDFW’s enforcement action—a five-year-old male bobcat. Currently under the excellent care of another facility, this bobcat will join its new companions after the construction of a specialized enclosure at PAWS is completed.

For more than four decades, PAWS has been a beacon of hope for captive wildlife. Founded in 1984, the organization has dedicated itself to providing a refuge for animals rescued from circuses, zoos, and the exotic pet trade. With a sprawling 2,300-acre sanctuary, PAWS is home to a diverse range of wild animals, including elephants, bears, big cats, and monkeys. The sanctuary is recognized by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, a testament to its commitment to providing high-quality care.

Photos of the new arrivals are available upon request, allowing the public to witness the joyous transformation of these animals into a safe and loving environment.

For those interested in supporting the work that PAWS does, more information can be found on their website at www.PAWSweb.org. As PAWS continues to rescue and rehabilitate wild animals, they invite animal lovers to engage with their mission and help promote better standards for wildlife everywhere.

The arrival of the mountain lion and the bear not only symbolizes a new beginning for these creatures but also sparks a discussion about the importance of animal welfare and the responsibility humans hold toward the wildlife they encounter. Let's hope that their journey helps foster greater awareness and commitment to protecting our fellow inhabitants of the Earth.