Bear Creek Feline Center (BCFC) announces a special Open House on Wednesday, April 16th, 2025, from 10:00 am to 12:00 Noon. BCFC is a sanctuary founded in 2000 and dedicated to the care and conservation of rare and endangered feline species.
For more information: https://bearcreekfelinecenter.org
The event will introduce the sanctuary’s newest resident, an extraordinary African Caracal. Attendees will have an exclusive opportunity to meet and learn about this remarkable wildcat known for its striking appearance and impressive agility.
Students from Chautauqua Academy and Central High School will participate in the event, assisting with habitat expansion and engaging directly in feline care under expert supervision. Jeremy Knapp, Principal of Central High School, will join his students in constructing new habitats designed to provide enriched living spaces for the center’s cats.
A special highlight will be honoring April Wilkes, Executive Director of the St. Joe Community Foundation, whose generous support made this habitat expansion possible.
BCFC’s Animal Enrichment Specialist, Bertie Broaddus, will host the event, provide educational insights and oversee activities throughout the morning. Additionally, Senior Cat Handler Renee Helms will exhibit fascinating species, including a Siberian Lynx and various bobcats, offering attendees an intimate look at these majestic animals.
Providing further enrichment, Bob Kuchta, LCSW, staff member at Chautauqua Academy, will mentor students as they showcase and interact with some of the sanctuary’s rare feline residents.
WMBB News 13 will exclusively handle media coverage of this unique event, ensuring in-depth coverage and detailed insights into BCFC’s vital conservation work and educational initiatives.
About Bear Creek Feline Center
Bear Creek Feline Center is a sanctuary dedicated to wildlife conservation and education that provides unique opportunities for individuals to connect with nature and learn about endangered species. Through initiatives like the “Wild Wishes®” educational tour, BCFC aims to inspire knowledge of wildlife and to foster a sense of responsibility towards conservation.
About The St. Joe Community Foundation
The St. Joe Community Foundation’s mission is to enrich the quality of life of the people who live, work, and play in Northwest Florida. Created in 1999, the Foundation provides grants to other 501(C)(3) entities for the areas of education, environmental stewardship, building healthier communities, and programs that honor the cultural arts.