SMALL CATS WORKSHOP

Cat Survival Trust, Hertfordshire

This venue provides quite a different selection of cats to those that you would find in other collections. Some of the cats form part of breeding programmes, and some have been acquired from zoos and private collections. Its location is quite close to, but not to be confused with and not connected with Santago. The trust has placed in excess of 2,000 cats into new homes.

Two breeding pairs of Snow Leopards

There are two large enclosures housing these marvellous creatures. You will be amazed by the length and thickness of their tails. Their athleticism just prior to feeding is amazing. Action pictures aplenty when this happens. In 2006 we were privileged to photograph the young cubs outside their cage. These two cubs are now in their own enclosure and provide great entertainment for all to see.

Lynx

There are a number of Lynx here in different enclosures. Some are quite sedentary and pose endlessly, while others are continuously on the move and much more challenging.

American Bobcat

This cat is now 26 years old. He has his own enclosure and will walk from side to side for tit-bits of meat. He makes a great shot as he walks through the undergrowth next to a tree.

Caracals

There are also several caracals. The ears are the focal point of this fabulous cat. It can sometimes be quite difficult to zoom in tight and not chop off the long hairs on their ears. As with the lynx, this is a cardinal sin and is to be avoided.

Jaguar & Amur Leopards

"Jags" is everybody's favourite. She is shortly to be transferred to a new larger purpose built enclosure. There are also two new arrivals here. A beautiful pair of Amur Leopards, an endangered species of which there are now estimated to be no more than 40 left in the wild. They have gorgeous blue eyes and regularly snarl at the waiting cameras.

Ocelot & Serval

"Lotty" spends here time on a branch lying in the sun. Every hour or so she goes "on patrol", and emerges into the open through thick undergrowth. Catch this moment if you can! There is also another new addition. A beautiful Serval that will pose just a few feet away in front of great backgrounds. Although quite friendly, she will continually hiss and snarl, presenting you with some superb photo opportunities.

Geoffroy's Cat and Pumas

There is one Geoffroy's Cat, plus a pair of Pumas (also known as Cougars) with their two cubs. These two species complete the animals on show, and the day presents a quite unique collection of subjects.

Privileged Access

We photograph all the cats from inside the outer enclosures. This access is not enjoyed by the general public. All the photography will be from reasonably close and, headshots apart, long lenses are not required.