Feline Conservation Federation
The Feline Conservation Federation (FCF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in the United States dedicated to the preservation, protection, and propagation of all species of wild felines. The members are a wide range of exotic cat enthusiasts such as professional breeders, educators, sanctuary and zoo owners, and individual "pet" owners, although ownership of an exotic feline is not required for membership.
History
The history of the FCF originates with the founding of the Long Island Ocelot Club in 1956 by Catherine Cisin. In 1979, the organization was incorporated as "LIOC - Endangered Species Conservation Federation." By 2002, the organization changed its name to the present "Feline Conservation Federation". A group of members split off, and re-formed the "Long Island Ocelot Club", a completely separate organization mostly focused on the smaller species.
Communication and activities
The Feline Conservation Federation publishes a bi-monthly magazine, hosts a private Yahoo chat list and web site. An annual convention is offered in July and locations are rotated around the country (United States).
Primarily focused on captive breeding to protect against extinction, the Feline Conservation Federation has developed a Feline Facility Accreditation program. In response to the issues that surround big cats, the FCF board of directors approved a Policy on Big Cats that discourages ownership by novices and those lacking proper facilities, knowledge and resources.
Concern for wild cats extends beyond those in captivity and the Feline Conservation Federation awards grants for research and conservation of felines in the wild.
Wild Feline Husbandry Course
The Feline Conservation Federation teaches a Wild Feline Husbandry Course. This 8-hour course focuses on responsible captive husbandry of wild felines. It is suitable for both novices and "old hands" who want to improve their level of knowledge. State G & F officials and USDA Animal Care Inspectors have attended this course giving FCF favorable reviews from both agencies.
This course was professionally developed in accordance with a nationally recognized standard for technical training known as the Systematic Approach to Training (SAT). The course is an instructor led, multi-media presentation, with an 83-page student text, workshops, and final exam. Students who pass the exam receive a decorative certificate denoting successful completion of the course.
Topics covered include:
- Natural History of Wild Felines
- Regulatory Agencies & Permits
- Facility Design
- Handling Equipment
- Diet / Nutrition
- Health Care Basics
- Disposition & Handling
- Behavior Conditioning