18/01/2025
We want to share a recent rescue that is truly ONE FOR THE BOOKS! Back in November we were called about a fluffy black kitty that was wandering the Publix parking lot asking for food and almost getting hit by traffic. Half of the town was trying to catch her but with no success. We thought it would be an easy project, but she was very trap saavy.
After many long nights sitting in the parking lot, a dedicated volunteer who fed her every morning and night to establish a schedule, and some creative thinking, we are happy to announce that Mama Angel has been rescued, along with her 2 beautiful babies, Apple and Hope!
A few weeks ago we were successful in finally catching Mama Angel using a drop trap. We were elated until it was discovered the next day at her spay appointment that she was actively nursing kittens. We were devastated thinking there were little ones all alone with impending bad weather and a cold front moving in. We searched and searched the area looking for a likely hiding place, to no avail. We had to release mom the next morning so that she could care for her babies, although we really did not want her living on the street.
In a first for us, we decided to track mom using an Apple air tag on a breakaway collar to figure out where the babies were. (Hence the name Apple and Hope for Buck Hope Road) It worked like a charm! We discovered the babies were several months old and could eat on their own. After getting the little family established at a regular feeding station, we made the move on a very early, cold morning and were able to trap the babies. Mom was not falling for it again, but on a return evening trip she could not resist the salmon offered and she was successfully rescued.
Mom Angel is sweet and enjoys belly rubs. Big boy Apple is very sweet with big purrs and snuggles. Little sister Hope is somewhat fearful but gets confidence from her brother, so it would be ideal if they could remain together. They are like fluffy, soft little bear cubs about 3 and a half months old, and we are so grateful they are safe and sound. None of this would have been possible without the efforts and support of our trapping volunteers and an Apple Air Tag! (It did become a bit of an obsession staying glued to the tracker!)
Many had expressed a desire to rescue them and we are grateful for everyone's concern. The family has now been spayed, neutered, microchipped, and vaxed. Please contact [email protected] for more info!
