Lions. Leopards. A brown bear. A lion-tiger hybrid. Warthogs. A serval. A fishing cat. These animals, all protected or restricted species, were found living without permits at a so-called animal sanctuary in Southern California.

The Born to Be Free sanctuary in Frazier Park was in possession of 15 restricted species without proper authorization, according to the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office. When authorities intervened in March, they seized the animals and relocated them to accredited, licensed sanctuaries across the country. While no animals were reported injured, their prior care and living conditions remain unclear.

This is not how animal sanctuaries should operate. Caring for exotic wildlife is not a hobby or a passion project, it is a serious responsibility that requires professional experience, adequate space, and legal compliance.

Unlicensed, under-regulated facilities often market themselves as “rescues” or “safe havens,” but in reality, animals in these environments can face stress, improper diets, isolation, lack of veterinary care, and unsafe enclosures. These animals deserve far better.

We are calling on the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the California Legislature, and county officials to:

• Conduct proactive inspections of all self-described animal sanctuaries in the state
• Enforce existing exotic animal permitting laws with consistency and transparency
• Create a public registry of licensed and accredited wildlife sanctuaries in California
• Increase penalties for unpermitted possession of restricted species
• Require education and training standards for any individual or organization housing exotic animals

These animals were lucky to be rescued before tragedy occurred. But the next group may not be.

Sign this petition to demand California protect wild and exotic animals from neglect and exploitation. Every sanctuary must be held to the highest standard — because the animals cannot speak for themselves.

Photo: KTLA