Home / Arts and Entertainment / Tippi Hedren's Big Cat Sanctuary: A Lifelong Mission
Tippi Hedren's Big Cat Sanctuary: A Lifelong Mission
1 Sep
Summary
- The Roar Foundation supports exotic animals at California's Shambala Preserve.
- Shambala has provided sanctuary to over 235 exotic felines since 1983.
- The preserve educates the public against private ownership of exotic animals.
Actress Tippi Hedren founded the Roar Foundation in 1983 to support the Shambala Preserve in Acton, California. This sanctuary has become a vital home for exotic felines, housing more than 235 animals including lions, tigers, leopards, and servals since its inception.
The preserve, established on Hedren's family land, grew from her earlier efforts to care for big cats involved in the 1981 film "Roar." Shambala provides permanent sanctuary for animals that cannot be released into the wild due to captivity or exploitation.
Shambala's mission extends beyond animal care; it actively educates the public about the dangers of keeping exotic animals as pets. The foundation opposes the breeding and sale of these animals for private purposes.
Currently operating on approximately 80 acres, Shambala continues to house over 30 animals, offering guided safaris to the public. Proceeds from these tours directly support the ongoing care of the resident felines.
