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Loop Abroad: Big Cat Research Week Indiana (Directory Program)

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  • Locations: Various Locations, United States
  • Program Terms: Summer
  • Homepage: Click to visit
  • Program Sponsor: Loop Abroad 
Fact Sheet:
Fact Sheet:
Click here for a definition of this term Language of Instruction: English Click here for a definition of this term Class Status: 1-first year, 2-sophomore, 3-junior, 4-senior
Click here for a definition of this term Areas of Study: Animal Science
Program Description:
Big Cat Research Week at Exotic Feline Rescue Center, Center Point, Indiana

This is an extremely rare opportunity to learn in a small group with your teaching veterinarian to see up-close how a big cat sanctuary operates. 

The Exotic Feline Rescue Center (EFRC) is a non-profit organization located in Center Point, Indiana. It serves as a sanctuary for abused, abandoned, and neglected exotic felines, providing them with a safe and caring environment.

The primary mission of the EFRC is to rescue big cats from various situations such as private ownership, circuses, roadside attractions, and other exploitative conditions. The center aims to educate the public about the plight of these magnificent creatures and the challenges they face in captivity. Over 100 big cats make their home at EFRC. On this program, you will learn about and practice research methods and data collection related to big cats in captivity.

At the EFRC, you will find a diverse range of exotic feline species, including tigers, lions, leopards, cougars, and more. These animals come from various backgrounds, with many having experienced mistreatment or inadequate living conditions before finding refuge at the center.

Who It’s For

This program is designed for undergraduate-level students who are interested in researching ways to enhance the lives of the cats at the rescue. 

Participants must be at least 18 years old. Most are 18 to 25, but we also accept full-time undergraduates over 25. There are no prerequisites for this program. You do not need to be in school currently to apply. Individuals of any nationality may apply.

This program is limited to a maximum of 10 participants. 

Participants are expected to be positive, attentive, fully engaged, and eager to learn. This is a research program. Students will not be feeding or touching the cats, but studying their behaviors.

Big cats are obligate carnivores and must be fed meat in captivity. Please note that this program may include surgical practice or other educational procedures on the bodies of deceased feeder animals.
Tiger
Highlights
  • Learn enrichment design and animal welfare assessment
  • Perform behavioral observations and ethograms
  • See up-close how the sanctuary cares for these big cats each day
  • Earn 40 research hours supervised by a veterinarian