Asha and two other lions were part of a big cat rescue from the Catskill Game Farm in New York just before Christmas 2006. With the closure of their animal park, the game farm auctioned off 950 animals and made East coast and national headlines.

Many worried that some of the animals would wind up in the hands of unscrupulous dealers, or that animals, such as deer or goats, would go to people who run ‘canned shoot’ operations where hunters pay to shoot fenced-in animals. It is described as one of the largest animal rescues of its type. Wildlife Watch intervened on behalf of the three lions to ensure a safer fate through placement at TWS.

Pine County Sanctuary Bears Burden of Big Cat Boom - Star Tribune Article – 1/7/2007

Just Look at Us Now – Life after the Catskill Game Farm Auction – Fall 2007

Caring for the Catskill Game Farm Cats- Wildlife Watch Binocular- Spring 2007

Asha was born in 1996 and arrived at the Sanctuary in 2006.  After healing from her physical and emotional scars from her confinement at the game farm, Asha has blossomed into a very jolly cat.  She loves all kinds of enrichment that keepers give her including boxes to shred, pumpkins for Halloween and anything stinky like perfume sprayed on her toys.

Her and Aslan share a special bond and often groom each other before mealtime or roll down the hill together like old pals.  Most of all Asha loves relaxing.  In her hammock, on her cave or just lounging in the grass, she thinks being a lazy lion is great.

You can help provide daily care for Asha by becoming her sponsor.  Your generosity will be greatly appreciated.