ALBION, Ind. (ADAMS) – A new bobcat that was initially bred in Arkansas before being held in Kentucky now has a new forever home in our area. “Chester the Bobcat” is now a resident at the Black Pine Animal Sanctuary.
Chester, formerly known as Bane, was seized by Kentucky Fish and Wildlife in February of 2023 after neighbors complained to authorities that he was being kept as a pet.
Black Pine says that unfortunately, his owners did not check state laws, as it is illegal in Kentucky to own native wildlife as pets.
The bobcat had been privately owned since he was a kitten, having been acquired from a private breeder in Arkansas. As a pet, the then-named “Bane”, was taught to use a toilet, interact with humans, and had his food microwaved. According to Black Pine, these actions made it impossible for him to be released into the wild.
Black Pine representatives released the following:
After WCPO TV in Cincinnati reported on Chester’s saga, concerned supporters contacted Black Pine animal Sanctuary asking if we could help. With the assistance of the Big Cat Sanctuary Alliance contact was made with the state veterinarian responsible for Chester’s care. Once Chester’s story went viral hundreds of requests were received to provide him with a new home. Black Pine Animal Sanctuary was chosen due to being a GFAS (Global Federation of Accredited Sanctuaries) and experience in taking in former exotic pets. Chester is a young, healthy bobcat and quickly adapting to his new home. His new habitat is located next to current bobcat residents Walter and Evaki and still getting to know each other. Black Pine is open for the season! Book a tour or plan a visit to meet Chester! Chester is waiting to see you at Black Pine Animal Sanctuary which is open Thursday through Sunday 1pm-4pm.
