By Pat Craig | Executive Director
Eleven Big Cats—rescued from dire conditions in Mexico—have found refuge at our Sanctuary in Colorado. These animals were being housed at the Invictus Foundation in Pachuca, a dedicated but resource-limited NGO we’ve partnered with for over a decade. The group included Jaguars, Tigers, African Lions, a Mountain Lion, and Bobcats—each with a harrowing story of neglect or abuse. From Pakal the Mountain Lion, whose skull was shattered with a baseball bat, to Big Cats suffering from metabolic bone disease due to malnutrition, the need for urgent rescue was undeniable. Even the Bobcats, Luna and Rufla, carried stories of long-term suffering in unnatural conditions.
While Invictus worked tirelessly to care for these animals, their limited space and lack of outdoor enclosures meant most of the animals lived in warehouse conditions. We’ve known for years that a long-term solution was desperately needed, and we supported efforts to secure land for a true Sanctuary in Mexico. Recently, Invictus succeeded in purchasing a rural property, a critical step forward for future rescues. But for the eleven animals already struggling in cramped conditions, time had run out. Their health was rapidly declining, and we knew they needed to be moved—fast.
Thankfully, FedEx stepped in, providing a dedicated emergency flight from Denver to near Mexico City. Their generosity has saved lives before, and once again, their compassion and professionalism made this international rescue possible. After arriving in Pachuca, our bilingual team coordinated closely with Invictus staff to carefully move each animal into secure transport crates. The weather was surprisingly cold—almost Colorado-like—which helped begin the animals’ acclimation to their new home.
Back at the Sanctuary, our team immediately began addressing each animal's medical needs. Pakal, the Mountain Lion, was our top priority. The brain trauma he sustained left him with significant nerve damage and poor motor control. Our veterinary team, including stem cell expert Dr. Valerie Johnson, launched an intensive care program to give him the best chance at recovery.
Balam, a once-wild Jaguar, was severely distressed after years in confinement. Now, he’s slowly adjusting to a large, natural habitat where he can roam freely and reconnect with his instincts. Bagheera, a striking Black Jaguar, is also beginning her journey to recovery. Though small for her age due to early malnutrition, she has shown a calm, observant nature and is exploring her new surroundings with growing confidence.
Corachi and Sheerkan, two female Tigers, are still dealing with the effects of poor diets early in life. Corachi had titanium plates placed in her legs as a cub—life-saving at the time, but now a source of pain as her body has grown. Our medical team plans to remove the plates and help her regain full mobility. Sheerkan, similarly stunted in growth, is receiving careful care and nutritional support to strengthen her bones and joints.
Four African Lions—Apolo, Nala, Simba, and Hunter—made the journey as well. Simba and Hunter, who suffered nerve damage from early abuse, still move awkwardly but display pure joy whenever they receive attention. They stumble and trip as they try to run and play, but their spirits remain incredibly bright. Nala, full of energy and personality, is known for springing high into the air when she’s excited. After years spent confined indoors, she now has space to run, play, and thrive. Apolo has already joined the Puerto Rico Lion pride and is thriving in his expansive new environment, confidently adding his voice to their chorus of roars.
The two Bobcats, Luna and Rufla, have unique backgrounds. Rufla, rescued from an illegal pet situation, is young and healthy—and finally able to live as a wild cat should. Luna, by contrast, was born in a zoo and spent most of her life at a “rehab” facility before being transferred to Invictus. Now 19 years old, Luna suffers from kidney damage but is stable under a senior care program. She’s receiving personalized veterinary support to ensure her comfort and quality of life in retirement.
This group represents one of the most complex rescues we've undertaken. Each animal brings unique challenges, but also incredible resilience. From stem cell therapy to emotional healing, we’re committed to helping them all recover and thrive in their new home.
We are deeply grateful to Invictus for saving these animals from worse fates, to FedEx for making this mission possible, and to you—our supporters. Your compassion fuels everything we do. These eleven cats now have a second chance, and with your continued support, we’ll make sure they get the life they always deserved.
We invite you to learn more about these 11 animals rescued from Mexico as well as our ongoing rescued efforts in our Sanctuary Newsletter.
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