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Jaguar's Tragic Death After Rattlesnake Bite at Sanctuary
28 Aug
Summary
- A 14-year-old jaguar died after a rattlesnake bite, a first for the sanctuary.
- The jaguar, Samba, suffered extensive venom damage despite receiving antivenom.
- The sanctuary has had previous snakebite incidents with full recoveries.
In a devastating first for Project Survival Cat Haven, a 14-year-old jaguar named Samba has died after being bitten by a rattlesnake. The melanistic jaguar, a resident of the Fresno County sanctuary for nearly three decades, was found with a severely swollen paw. Veterinary examination revealed extensive damage consistent with rattlesnake venom, despite the administration of antivenom.
Despite aggressive treatment and a significant reduction in venom effects shown in blood tests, Samba's heart stopped while she was recovering from anesthesia. The exact cause of her death is under investigation, with a necropsy scheduled. This marks the first time in the sanctuary's operation that a wild cat has succumbed to a snakebite; previously, six other cats had been bitten and recovered.
Cat Haven, established in 1998, is dedicated to wild cat education and conservation. The facility has protocols for snakebite emergencies, including pre-antivenom blood testing, which were followed in Samba's case. Her sister, Rose, is receiving extra attention following the loss.
