MULTIMEDIA: Tiger World

Mark Wineka and Jon C. Lakey recently visited Tiger World and spoke to the new owner, Lea Jaunakais.

Brad Thomas created a multimedia presentation based on Mark’s collected audio and Jon’s photos. You can see it by clicking here.

Mark Wineka’s story — Pals with Claws: Tiger World owner promises safety

Lea Jaunakais also wrote a letter to the editor on January 23rd.

As the president and founder of Tiger World, I would like to clarify a few misconceptions:

1. All the animals that will reside at Tiger World have lived at what used to be Metrolina Wildlife Park for 11 years. I am not bringing these animals to Rowan County; they have already been here.

2. Tiger World is buying the old Metrolina Wildlife Park and turning it into an educational center for endangered animals. Tiger World will only feature guided tours.

3. Tiger World is modifying each and every exhibit for safety, including building lockdown shelters, angled fencing, double-entry doors and 24-hour surveillance.

4. Tiger World is licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture for exhibition of exotic animals, like all zoos. Tiger World will be inspected multiple times annually by the USDA to ensure the health and safety of the animals and the public.

5. Tiger World has an educated staff that is trained and experienced in working with exotic animals. Some employees have been selected from out of state due to their expertise with big cats. Many are certified in chemical immobilization, exotic animal husbandry, feline husbandry and have obtained four-year science degrees.

Tiger World will be integrating advanced security features to ensure the safety of the public and the animals. After the unfortunate event at the San Francisco Zoo, we are all concerned about safety. With all the safety precautions and advanced training of the staff, Tiger World will be a safe haven for the animals and the community.

– Lea Jaunakais

Rockwell