Nova started her life at a roadside zoo in South Carolina before being rescued by Carolina Tiger Rescue. She very quickly settled into sanctuary life. She is a social cougar who was on tour very quickly after leaving quarantine.
Born October 27, 2012
Rescued October 27, 2024
How Nova Came to the Sanctuary
Nova started her life at a roadside zoo in South Carolina called Waccatee. This roadside zoo was shut down after an investigation by PETA highlighted several USDA violations. Carolina Tiger Rescue worked with PETA to coordinate her rescue, and Nova came to the sanctuary in October 2024.
Personality
Nova is a confident, social cougar. Even when she first arrived, Nova quickly settled into sanctuary life. She lives along the tour path, but she can be difficult to spot because she enjoys resting in her den box or under her low platforms. If you're ever around at mealtime, she'll definitely make an appearance as she is incredibly food motivated. Nova is also a big fan of scent enrichment, especially if it includes axe body spray.
Description
Nova is a smaller cougar with shorter front legs and taller back legs. She has a light coat that can look more orange or grey depending on the lighting. She has a much lighter “moustache” than Beau and is much smaller in stature. She also has big round eyes and a wrinkly forehead.
Roadside Zoos
Roadside Zoos will cram a lot of animals into small spaces and deny them appropriate care. The main goal of these places is to exploit their animals in order to make a profit. At Waccatee, the roadside zoo that Nova came from, many animals were found to be malnourished and missing fur. When you go to places that keep animals, make sure to do your research and only support reputable organizations.
Puma concolor
