CFAR Sounding
The Official Podcast of Central Florida Animal Reserve
CFAR Sounding is a production of Central Florida Animal Reserve, where we engage the world of the big cats through our mottos of Compassion, Conservation, and Commitment. At CFAR, when it comes to big cats, it’s about Vision.
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About the Show
CFAR Sounding is a 30 minute conversational that encompasses many topics that have to do with the world of the Big Cats. In addition to hearing tales about residents at Central Florida Animal Reserve, you will also hear talk on big cats in general, organization news and updates, and other interesting topics. The show strives to provide listeners with perspective and discussion points–but never shies away from broaching difficult and challenging subjects.
Send your ideas and comments regarding the show to: contact@cflar.org
Your Hosts
Dr. K. Simba Wiltz
Dr. Wiltz initially entered the world of big cats started when news of a canine distemper outbreak hit Kenyan lions in 1994. He moved from book research into hands-on experience with big cats in 2002, and has traveled to several facilities across the country. He became a senior handler in 2005 and has worked with over 80 big cats. He joined Central Florida Animal Reserve’s inaugural Board of Directors in 2007. Dr. Wiltz earned his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and is a Morehead Scholar. His pharmacy career has touched on multiple elements of the pharmaceutical world including community, long-term care, nuclear, hospice, veterinary, compounding, and specialty pharmacy. He has been CFAR’s Senior Vice President since 2007, and serves as CEO.
Ms. Asli Goncer
Asli (pronounced Ahs-lah) Goncer is a Software Developer by day and a singer songwriter by night. She creates the musical cues woven into the CFAR Sounding radio show. Asli has always been interested in environmental issues and is a member and supporter of organizations that promote conservation concerns. She joined the CFAR volunteer staff in November of 2012, and joined Simba as a co-host of the radio show in January of 2013. Asli is excited about the new topic based format of the show and is looking forward to more lively discussions!
Latest Show
A Chat with The Conservators Center, Part 1 |
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 The Conservators Center is a wildlife park located in Burlington, North Carolina. Since 1999, they have been providing education and rescue services for animals in need. A radical bill introduced to the legislature drew them and many others into a discussion that highlighted some of the remarkable complexity that comes with the industry. Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer talk to Mindy Stinner, Executive Director and co-founder of the park about this and many other topics in this wide-ranging discussion on big cat industry and the role such organizations play.Release date: June 6, 2015 |
Archived Shows
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Member Day, May 2015
Central Florida Animal Reserve is celebrating its second Member Day of 2015. Summer is almost here, but before you give over to sand and surf, come join the cats of CFAR on site for a visit. Join the people who volunteer on a casual stroll surrounded by big cats in one of the last opportunities to experience this at their current home. Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer talk about Member Day–what you’ll see and here, and some of the moments you won’t want to miss. Also, we get an update on the new facility construction progress and plans for continued work.
Release date: May 17, 2015
Anthropomorphism and Conservation |
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 People have been blending the human and animal world since early days. This ascribing of human features to non-humans is called “anthropomorphics”, and it can be seen all around us from the headlights of your car to the clothing we make for animals. This sometimes amusing human diversion comes into focus with today’s discussion as Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer take on anthropomorphism through a particular lens. What is it about animals that draws us to blend them with humans, and how does that impact our views on conservation? Join us as we cross species in this episode of CFAR Sounding.Release date: May 12, 2015 |
An Interview with Dr. Craig Packer, UM Lion Research Center, Part 3 |
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 Happy Earth Day! Our discussion with Dr. Craig Packer concludes with a little legend about “Lion Time”, and his seminal work on Canine Distemper in Lions. Dr. Packer also shares some harsh realities about the conservation of lions in Africa. Too little, too late, or is there hope for a concerted effort to save the species? Few creatures have the kind of charismatic clout as the lion. Today, this iconic animal faces its greatest threat yet–and most people don’t even realize it. To get to the bottom of this conservation challenge, CFAR Sounding talks to one of the foremost experts in lion research. For over 4 decades, Dr. Craig Packer has been studying lions across Africa. Through over 100 publications, several novels, and a legacy of students-turned ecologists, Dr. Packer has played a major role in the conversation about lions both at home and abroad.Release date: April 22, 2015 |
An Interview with Dr. Craig Packer, UM Lion Research Center, Part 2 |
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| Few creatures have the kind of charismatic clout as the lion. Today, this iconic animal faces its greatest threat yet–and most people don’t even realize it. To get to the bottom of this conservation challenge, CFAR Sounding talks to one of the foremost experts in lion research. For over 4 decades, Dr. Craig Packer has been studying lions across Africa. Through over 100 publications, several novels, and a legacy of students-turned ecologists, Dr. Packer has played a major role in the conversation about lions both at home and abroad. In this multipart series, Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer catch up with this renown ecologist to talk lions to get to the source of what drives this legendary creature, and what is driving them toward extinction. We continue the discussion this week on projects designed to minimize human-lion conflict, and talk about how moon phases can make a top predator even deadlier. Release date: April 15, 2015 |
An Interview with Dr. Craig Packer, UM Lion Research Center, Part 1 |
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| Few creatures have the kind of charismatic clout as the lion. Today, this iconic animal faces its greatest threat yet–and most people don’t even realize it. To get to the bottom of this conservation challenge, CFAR Sounding talks to one of the foremost experts in lion research. For over 4 decades, Dr. Craig Packer has been studying lions across Africa. Through over 100 publications, several novels, and a legacy of students-turned ecologists, Dr. Packer has played a major role in the conversation about lions both at home and abroad. In this multipart series, Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer catch up with this renown ecologist to talk lions to get to the source of what drives this legendary creature, and what is driving them toward extinction.
Release date: April 7, 2015 |
An Interview with Dr. Rajesh Gopal, Secretary General of Global Tiger Forum, Part 3 |
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 Wildlife corridors, buffer zones, and assisting the tiger range countries remains an important element for tiger conservation, but there is one consideration missing. What to do about ex situ (captive) tigers? To conclude our discussion, Dr. Gopal engages on options for ex situ tigers and how collaborative efforts among many countries will shape the future for the big cat in the wild. For 37 years, Dr. Rajesh Gopal has been a strong advocate for tiger conservation. His work has taken him into the depths of tiger strongholds, as well as the towers of human civilization. As Secretary of the National Tiger Conservation Authority, he was a principal investigator for the recently released tiger census reporting an increase in the tiger population. Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer interview Dr. Gopal about his work, tiger conservation, and the efforts being taken in India as well as around the world to preserve the big cat.
Release date: March 24, 2015 |
An Interview with Dr. Rajesh Gopal, Secretary General of Global Tiger Forum, Part 2 |
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| Now that we have more tigers, how do we keep them? Dr. Gopal talks of the collaborative efforts between government, law enforcement, and civilians to save the tiger’s native lands. For 37 years, Dr. Rajesh Gopal has been a strong advocate for tiger conservation. His work has taken him into the depths of tiger strongholds, as well as the towers of human civilization. As Secretary of the National Tiger Conservation Authority, he was a principal investigator for the recently released tiger census reporting an increase in the tiger population. In this multipart series, Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer interview Dr. Gopal about his work, tiger conservation, and the efforts being taken in India as well as around the world to preserve the big cat.
Release date: March 17, 2015 |
An Interview with Dr. Rajesh Gopal, Secretary General of Global Tiger Forum, Part 1 |
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| How do you count tigers? We decided to find out from one of the world’s experts. For over 37 years, Dr. Rajesh Gopal has been a strong advocate for tiger conservation. His work has taken him into the depths of tiger strongholds, as well as the towers of human civilization. As Secretary of the National Tiger Conservation Authority, he was a principal investigator for the recently released tiger census reporting an increase in the tiger population. In this multipart series, Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer interview Dr. Gopal about his work, tiger conservation, and the efforts being taken in India as well as around the world to preserve the big cat.
Release date: March 10, 2015 |
Wildlife Corridors |
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 Happy World Wildlife Day! Wildlife corridors have moved from a theoretical phase to a practical one, with corridors being constructed around the globe. Focused study is going into finding out whether or not this novel answer for the wildlife question can solve a central problem: Do habitats purposefully linked by humans change outcomes for target species? And what kinds of species are being saved? Join Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer as they try to bridge the science and philosophy of Wildlife Corridors!
Release date: March 3, 2015 |
Census Shows More Wild Tigers |
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 A recent tiger census has shown that the number of tigers in India has increased. The improvement of 30% comes as good news for wild tiger populations, but is receiving little attention outside of what is being reported. Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer take a closer look at the tiger census and talk about its implications, both good and bad. Having more tigers in the wild is a goal we can all strive for, but do reports like this help or harm conservation efforts? Perspective and analysis will shed some light on the tiger census in this interesting discussion, count on it!
Release date: February 24, 2015 |
The Roar on Catty Shack, Part 2 |
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 Central Florida Animal Reserve is but one of over 100 organizations licensed in Florida to handle big cats, and one of thousands in the USA. In this two part series, we talk with another big cat sanctuary: Catty Shack. Located in Jacksonville, FL, Catty Shack is home to over 40 animal residents and also boasts a number of volunteers. Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer interview Jordan Joseph, their Volunteer Coordinator and Community Business coordinator. Jordan has been a volunteer for over 8 years with Catty Shack, and we share tales of how each organization addresses the challenges inherent to the world of big cats.
Release date: February 17, 2015 |
The Roar on Catty Shack, Part 1 |
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| Central Florida Animal Reserve is but one of over 100 organizations licensed in Florida to handle big cats, and one of thousands in the USA. In this two part series, we talk with another big cat sanctuary: Catty Shack. Located in Jacksonville, FL, Catty Shack is home to over 40 animal residents and also boasts a number of volunteers. Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer interview Jordan Joseph, their Volunteer Coordinator and Community Business coordinator. Jordan has been a volunteer for over 8 years with Catty Shack, and we share tales of how each organization addresses the challenges inherent to the world of big cats.
Release date: February 10, 2015 |
Talking Trust, Part 2 |
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 Trust and its implications have never been as important in society as it is today. Just what is this elusive concept, and how does it relate to the big cats? Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer dive into the difficult subject with perspective from the world of big cats, and the impact of trust involved in the work. In the second half of this series, we talk about techniques to engender trust between us and the cats–both overt and subtle. It’ll be a great discussion–trust me!
Release date: February 1, 2015 |
Talking Trust, Part 1 |
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| Trust and its implications have never been as important in society as it is today. Just what is this elusive concept, and how does it relate to the big cats? Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer dive into the difficult subject with perspective from the world of big cats, and the impact of trust involved in the work. Part one of this multi-part series quickly shows that there’s more to trust than just a relationship between two beings–how does this affect the way we do things and the way nature interacts with us? It’ll be a great discussion–trust me!
Release date: January 20th, 2015 |
A Lesson on Leopards |
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 Leopards are among the most successful of the big cats, with multiple subspecies spread across two continents. They are elusive yet accessible, iconic and misunderstood. Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer take a look at this amazing species. Learn about leopards in this short lesson–their lands, their challenges, and their lifestyle. Fifteen Freakishly Fast Fun Cat Facts returns with a focus on leopards, as well as a few stories about the leopards of CFAR. Don’t let this one sneak by you!
Release date: January 12th, 2015 |
Central Florida Animal Reserve, 2015 – A Prospective |
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 2014 was an amazing year for Central Florida Animal Reserve. We wrap up our retrospective on the year in review with the subject that was tops on everyone’s memory list: the New Facility and the future of the cats. Hear a few more voices from CFAR’s get-together for the holidays in 2014. Also Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer talk a little more about what the move is going to mean for the organization–and how we are preparing for the cats to react to their new home. The combination of aging cats and a financial race to the finish line add a dramatic twist to this ongoing story.
Release date: January 4th, 2015 |
Central Florida Animal Reserve, 2014 – A Retrospective |
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| 2014 has been an amazing year for Central Florida Animal Reserve. We’ve begun construction on the biggest project the organization has ever undertaken and engaged many ups and downs over the course of the year. A recent get-together at Forever Florida gave Asli a chance to interview a number of volunteers talking about the moments that have made this year great in their own voices. We acknowledge the many individual victories that have made the organization successful, and also celebrate the year in CFAR Sounding with a retrospective of some fun moments from previous shows. Happy New Year to all, from Central Florida Animal Reserve!
Release date: December 30th, 2014 |
A View of the New Central Florida Animal Reserve, in Progress |
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Thanks to the fine folks at RKC Site Solutions, we have some amazing drone footage of the new Central Florida Animal Reserve facility in progress! A direct link to the video is here: http://youtu.be/RDGYhAJA9Cg. You can really see the scope of the project when you get in the air that way, and so it’s a good time to talk more about the vision for the finish product. Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer talk about the nature of the project, and some of the details that you can see from the air. What’s being built has got to meet a number of requirements, both external and internal. Release date: December 14th, 2014 |
Canine Distemper…and Cats? |
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 Canine distemper (CDV) is a debilitating virus that can strike down even the bravest of dogs. But did you know that dogs are not the only victims of this condition? Earlier outbreaks have already caused extinction or near extinction of other species, including big cats. The mention of CDV as a cause of “big cat zombies” on Animal Planet last week led co-host Asli Goncer to do a little research into it and find that their story doesn’t exactly match the truth. Dr. Simba Wiltz joins the conversation as the team talks about the real Canine Distemper virus, the danger of outbreaks in wild populations, and how human intervention can help offset its risks. Release date: December 7th, 2014 |
Getting down to Business, Pt 2 |
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  The conversation starts with a special announcement and how you can help the Holiday Challenge! Visit http://www.crowdrise.com/CFLARHoliday to help! CFAR is privileged to do some amazing work taking care of majestic big cats, but it’s not all purrs and nuzzles. Dr. Simba Wiltz talks about his visit to the St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce and the presentation made during a recent luncheon there. As the audience discovered, no subject is ever boring when you add the twist of the big cats to the mix. Listen in as Simba and Asli talk about what makes the business of big cats unique and challenging.
Release date: November 30th, 2014 |
Getting down to Business, Pt 1 |
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| CFAR is privileged to do some amazing work taking care of majestic big cats, but it’s not all purrs and nuzzles. Dr. Simba Wiltz talks about his visit to the St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce and the presentation made during a recent luncheon there. As the audience discovered, no subject is ever boring when you add the twist of the big cats to the mix. Listen in as Simba and Asli talk about what makes the business of big cats unique and challenging.
Release date: November 23th, 2014 |
Adventures in Enrichment |
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 Join us for a special encore presentation of a show originally aired on April 6 of this year regarding enrichment. The cats know how to have fun, and here are some highlights from earlier this year: “Enrichment is a vital part of what we do at CFAR. Simba and Asli talk about this in the context of creating interesting adventures for the cats. Kukla the cougar is the poster kitty for an enriched environment–and a food-challenge gives white tiger Wicasa Wakan a brain teasing opportunity to learn. Fifteen freakishly fast cat facts returns–cougars and tigers!”
Release date: November 16th, 2014 (Original date: April 6, 2014) |
Close Encounters of the Educational Variety: Tigers 4 Tigers visits CFAR |
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 “When a great desire to learn meets a great desire to teach, magic happens.” It was a magical weekend at CFAR when 10 members of Clemson University’s Tigers 4 Tigers Club visited CFAR to help out. The group has a chance at close observation of the cats, worked hard on a grounds-cleaning project, and learned a great deal of the challenges facing big cat husbandry. This show starts with an interview with Taylor Tench (President) and Diane Dotson (Vice President), and further discussion with Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer as we focus on the importance of animal education, its opportunities, and challenges.
Release Date: November 9, 2014 |
Zombies and Big Cats |
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 It’s Halloween again, and time for all things ghoulish, scary, and otherworldly! To celebrate, CFAR Sounding hosted its first ever live show, featuring a panel discussion on the topic of Zombies and Big Cats! Join our distinguished group as we explore the ramifications of “zombieism” in its many forms with an unusual twist. This special show is hosted by Asli Goncer, and features Dr. Simba Wiltz (big cat expert and pharmacist), Mr. Ron Smyke (visiting fellow from Arkham University), and Mr. Brian Boots (an ex-zombie in recovery). You won’t want to miss this hilarious episode! Happy Halloween, everyone!
Release Date: October 31, 2014 |
The Critters |
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 CFAR is home to more than just big cats, we also host a small number of very unusual little creatures that we affectionately call “Our Critters”. This show is dedicated to introducing you to some other mammals in the animal kingdom: the Genet, the Coatimundi, and the Civet. Each have unusual characteristics, but are full of character! Our little critters bring a lot of joy with their antics and attitude and are a sampling of the remarkable biodiversity that exists among mammals. To honor them, we’ve got Fifteen Freakishly Fast Fun Critter Facts for each as Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer introduce you to our smallest residents!
Release Date: October 26, 2014 |
Aging and the Big Cat Life Cycle, Part 3 |
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 The Golden Years: In spite of many efforts, no one is immune from the process of aging. We are born and then undertake a fantastic journey of growth and development. This life cycle is the hallmark of all living things, and the big cats are no different. Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer talk about the life cycle of big cats and how dramatically they can differ depending on the situation. The discussion compares wild and captive situations, revealing some distinct differences and some amazing similarities. Experience and research come together in an amazing tale as we trace the lives of tigers and lions from birth to death, and discuss the remarkable changes seen in human intervention.
Release Date: October 19, 2014 |
Aging and the Big Cat Life Cycle, Part 2 |
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| Middle Age: In spite of many efforts, no one is immune from the process of aging. We are born and then undertake a fantastic journey of growth and development. This life cycle is the hallmark of all living things, and the big cats are no different. Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer talk about the life cycle of big cats and how dramatically they can differ depending on the situation. The discussion compares wild and captive situations, revealing some distinct differences and some amazing similarities. Experience and research come together in an amazing tale as we trace the lives of tigers and lions from birth to death, and discuss the remarkable changes seen in human intervention.
Release Date: October 12, 2014 |
Aging and the Big Cat Life Cycle, Part 1 |
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| Early Life: In spite of many efforts, no one is immune from the process of aging. We are born and then undertake a fantastic journey of growth and development. This life cycle is the hallmark of all living things, and the big cats are no different. Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer talk about the life cycle of big cats and how dramatically they can differ depending on the situation. The discussion compares wild and captive situations, revealing some distinct differences and some amazing similarities. Experience and research come together in an amazing tale as we trace the lives of tigers and lions from birth to death, and discuss the remarkable changes seen in human intervention.
Release Date: October 6, 2014 |
| The Dating Game, Big Cat Style, Part 2 |
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 Whether it be finding a playmate for a cub or a companion for an adult, there are occasions where big cats need to be introduced to other cats that they don’t know. The process whereby two cats can be put together can be long and ultimately fail, or result in miraculous connections that can leave everyone scratching their head. We share two such stories in this week’s show, as Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer talk about the dating game for big cats: how large, powerful fuzzy creatures make friends and influence each other.
Release Date: September 28, 2014 |
The Dating Game, Big Cat Style, Part 1 |
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| Whether it be finding a playmate for a cub or a companion for an adult, there are occasions where big cats need to be introduced to other cats that they don’t know. The process whereby two cats can be put together can be long and ultimately fail, or result in miraculous connections that can leave everyone scratching their head. We share two such stories in this week’s show, as Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer talk about the dating game for big cats: how large, powerful fuzzy creatures make friends and influence each other.
Release Date: September 21, 2014 |
Volunteer, Meet the Volunteer Council, Part 2 |
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 As an all-volunteer organization, CFAR depends on the generosity of time and energy that volunteers bring to the group. But what does it take to be a volunteer? And what is it like volunteering around big cats? Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer introduce you to the three very special people who are central to getting volunteers on board. Kelley Mulvihill, Mary Beth Ferringer, and Dennis Lum serve as the Volunteer Council, and act as guides and liaisons between prospective and existing volunteers. We chat with them to learn more about their experiences volunteering, and what they do as a group to make the experience great for those that engage.
Release Date: September 14, 2014 |
Volunteer, Meet the Volunteer Council, Part 1 |
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| As an all-volunteer organization, CFAR depends on the generosity of time and energy that volunteers bring to the group. But what does it take to be a volunteer? And what is it like volunteering around big cats? Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer introduce you to the three very special people who are central to getting volunteers on board. Kelley Mulvihill, Mary Beth Ferringer, and Dennis Lum serve as the Volunteer Council, and act as guides and liaisons between prospective and existing volunteers. We chat with them to learn more about their experiences volunteering, and what they do as a group to make the experience great for those that engage.
Release Date: September 7, 2014 |
New Technology in Conservation |
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 Technology continues to advance at a breakneck pace, but that does not mean that nature is left behind! Some of those new technologies are changing the landscape when it comes to conservation–and putting new and powerful tools in the hands of everyday people to make a difference for their natural environment. Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer talk tech today. How is technology helping put pressure on poachers, and where is the next frontier? Download some conservation knowledge as CFAR Sounding talks New Technology in Conservation.
Release Date: August 31, 2014 |
A Ticklish Question, Part 2 |
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 Trying to answer the ‘ticklish question’ was a lot of laughs, but hardly the whole story. Humor is a challenging concept for humans and even more challenging to establish for other species. CFAR Sounding takes a look at the social elements involved in humor among a few species, and we get some amusing stories about how the cats choose to display their particular brand of humor. Join us for a continued discussion of the ‘ticklish question’.
Release Date: August 24, 2014 |
A Ticklish Question, Part 1 |
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| We’ve gotten several questions over time, but this one caused a thoughtful chuckle: Are tigers ticklish? For that matter–what the heck is tickle anyway? What can it tell us about the cats and ourselves? It turns out that it’s no laughing matter as Simba and Asli take on this ‘touchy’ subject with attention to what tickle means for the cats, as well as its utility in nature. Fifteen freakishly fast cat facts returns with ‘cougar’ as CFAR Sounding attempts to answer a ticklish question.
Release Date: August 17, 2014 |
Legislative Layout, Part 2 |
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 Our show starts off with a construction update! Get caught up on the latest happenings at the new facility. H.R. 1998 is all the rage in the big cat world–this bill, introduced in 2013 will amend the Lacey Act of 1981 and effectively alter the landscape for big cats in the United States. But is it really the answer to the issue of big cats in the US? Though considered unlikely to pass, the message and methodology surrounding this bill have started an important conversation for us all. Follow Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer as they discuss some of the implications surrounding this much talked about issue.
Release Date: August 10, 2014 |
Legislative Layout, Part 1 |
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| H.R. 1998 is all the rage in the big cat world–this bill, introduced in 2013 will amend the Lacey Act of 1981 and effectively alter the landscape for big cats in the United States. But is it really the answer to the issue of big cats in the US? Though considered unlikely to pass, the message and methodology surrounding this bill have started an important conversation for us all. Follow Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer as they discuss some of the implications surrounding this much talked about issue.
Release Date: August 3, 2014 |
A Fond Farewell to Akicita |
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 CFAR Sounding pays tribute on the passing of Akicita. Volunteers who have known him discuss his life, from cubhood into adulthood. In this special extended show, hear in their own words how Akicita touched lives and made people smile. He leaves a lion-sized hole in our hearts, and will be dearly missed. Featuring the voices of Phyllis Parks, Thomas Blue, DMD, and Sandy Grant.
Release Date: July 27, 2014 |
Big Cat, Little Cat, Part 3 |
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 What’s the difference between big cats and small cats? Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer take on the challenge of this comparison to find out how much they are alike and also how different they are. In the conclusion of the series, we talk about some of the unique behavior of cats and the role they have played in society over time. We finish up with a fun comparison between the domestic cat and the biggest of them all, the tiger!
Release Date: July 20, 2014 |
Big Cat, Little Cat, Part 2 |
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| What’s the difference between big cats and small cats? Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer take on the challenge of this comparison to find out how much they are alike and also how different they are. In the second part of the series, we answer more questions about little cats and challenge some of the myths surrounding them. Join the conversation!
Release Date: July 13, 2014 |
Big Cat, Little Cat, Part 1 |
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| What’s the difference between big cats and small cats? Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer take on the challenge of this comparison to find out how much they are alike and also how different they are. In the first part of the series, Fifteen Freakishly Fast Fun Cat Facts returns–with a “purrfect” twist. Join the conversation!
Release Date: July 6, 2014 |
Handling Philosophy and the Senses, Part 3 |
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 Working around big cats is best accomplished when the caretakers and the cats work together. In these episodes, we examine some philosophy behind handling and talk about how our understanding of the senses can help us act as better stewards. Philosophy and physiology come together to make for an interesting discussion. Don’t miss it!
Release Date: June 29, 2014 |
Handling Philosophy and the Senses Part 2 |
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| Working around big cats is best accomplished when the caretakers and the cats work together. In these episodes, we examine some philosophy behind handling and talk about how our understanding of the senses can help us act as better stewards. Philosophy and physiology come together to make for an interesting discussion. Don’t miss it!
Release Date: June 22, 2014 |
Handling Philosophy and the Senses Part 1 |
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| Working around big cats is best accomplished when the caretakers and the cats work together. In these episodes, we examine some philosophy behind handling and talk about how our understanding of the senses can help us act as better stewards. Philosophy and physiology come together to make for an interesting discussion. Don’t miss it!
Release Date: June 15, 2014 |
Everyday Meditations on Spirituality Part 2 |
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 William Colachicco has volunteered with CFAR for over 2 years–you might have met him as the ‘MC’ of Member Day. But he also holds two bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Religious Studies, and recently completed a Masters in Asian Studies with a focus on Religions of Asia. His experiences with Theravada Buddhism and travel throughout Asia led to the publication of the book Everyday Meditations. William joins Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer to talk about Spirituality, and how his experiences add color to working around big cats.
Release Date: June 8, 2014 |
Everyday Meditations on Spirituality Part 1 |
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| William Colachicco has volunteered with CFAR for over 2 years–you might have met him as the ‘MC’ of Member Day. But he also holds two bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Religious Studies, and recently completed a Masters in Asian Studies with a focus on Religions of Asia. His experiences with Theravada Buddhism and travel throughout Asia led to the publication of the book Everyday Meditations. William joins Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer to talk about Spirituality, and how his experiences add color to working around big cats.
Release Date: June 1, 2014 |
Exploring the Threat of Wildlife Trafficking |
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| Wildlife trafficking is not just big business–it is an international controversy. With annual revenues representing billions of dollars, this secretive practice challenges societies across the world. The United States is no stranger to this problem–made more challenging by a complicated patchwork of law, business interests, and a largely ignorant public. Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer dive into the discussion on this topic and discuss the challenges related within.
Release Date: May 25, 2014 |
The Member Day Show |
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 Member Day is a thrice-yearly event where Central Florida Animal Reserve invites its members to visit with us on-site as a thank you for supporting the organization. The visit is an opportunity to learn about the cats and get a ground’s eye view of what it takes to care for them. It also gives volunteers and staff a chance to share the stories, tales, and camaraderie that comes from being part of this unique world. Join Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer as they welcome in Member Day II, 2014–with a look back at what it takes to put on such an event.
Release Date: May 18, 2014 |
Conversation on Cougars |
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 Cougars are one of the most successful of the big cat species–with a range that covers the entire western hemisphere. Their broad presence causes the species to be considered of ‘Least Concern’ for extinction, but all is not uniform among cougars. Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer talk about cougars today–their personalities, conservation status, and some of the stories that come with raising cougars. Also, fifteen freakishly fast fun cat facts returns–with cougars!
Release Date: May 11, 2014 |
Animals as Persons |
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 A recent lawsuit filed in New York intended to establish “person status” for chimps has opened a new front in the discussion of animals and their place in society. This leads to big questions about self-determination, the concept of self-awareness, and the distinction between animal welfare and animal rights. It’s a big topic, but Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer take up the task to continue the discussion about our complex relationship with the animals that share our world.
Release Date: May 4, 2014 |
Behind the Lens with Janice Carter Pt. 2 |
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 Hosts Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer interview Janice Carter, staff photographer for CFAR. For several years, Janice has provided beautiful images of the cats in the form of posters, calendars, and framed pictures. We explore what it takes to get these intimate images of big cats, as well as the progression of those pictures over time. Don’t miss Janice’s behind the scenes stories about the making of some great shots. Also in this show, a construction update on our move to the new facility!
Release Date: April 27, 2014 |
Behind the Lens with Janice Carter Pt. 1 |
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 Hosts Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer interview Janice Carter, staff photographer for CFAR. For several years, Janice has provided beautiful images of the cats in the form of posters, calendars, and framed pictures. We explore what it takes to get these intimate images of big cats, as well as the progression of those pictures over time. Don’t miss Janice’s behind the scenes stories about the making of some great shots.
Release Date: April 13, 2014 |
Adventures in Enrichment |
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 Enrichment is a vital part of what we do at CFAR. Simba and Asli talk about this in the context of creating interesting adventures for the cats. Kukla the cougar is the poster kitty for an enriched environment–and a food-challenge gives white tiger Wicasa Wakan a brain teasing opportunity to learn.Fifteen freakishly fast cat facts returns–cougars and tigers!
Release date: April 6th, 2014 |
Zoos, Captivity, and the Conundrum Therein – Part 2 |
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 In part 2 of this show, Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer discuss the conflicting desires of wanting animals to stay wild and the need for captivity. How does that conflict manifest when both interests are present? We also get updates on Wowicala, the tigress with the mammary tumor.Also, a brief commentary on the stunning actions of a Copenhagen zoo.
Release date: March 30th, 2014 |
Zoos, Captivity and the Conundrum Therein – Part 1 |
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 Our complicated relationship with animals has led to many efforts to preserve and protect them in places from natural habitats to zoos. But what does this mean for the animals and how do we address the issues surrounding captivity? Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer discuss zoos, captivity, and the challenges therein in this two part series.Also, hear stories of two of our residents undergoing medical procedures. Fifteen Freakishly Fast Fun Cat Facts returns–this time with cougars and tigers!
Release Date: March 23, 2014 |
A Case of Leopard Arthritis |
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 Join Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer as they talk about one of the most common conditions among humans and cats: arthritis. We talk about treatment for arthritis in humans and animals, and introduce the newest segment to the show: Fifteen Freakishly Fast Fun Cat Facts!
Release Date: March 16, 2014 |
 Central Florida Animal Reserve Logo |
Conservation and it Techniques – Part 2 |
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| Dr. Simba Wiltz and Asli Goncer continue their conversation about conservation and its techniques. Discussion about capstone species leads into discussion on how we can reintroduce cats to the wild–but like everything with nature, results may vary.
Release Date: March 9, 2014 |
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Central Florida Animal Reserve Logo |
Conservation and its Techniques – Part 1 |
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| Hosts Simba and Asli talk about conservation in its many forms, including about big cats. A variety of techniques are used to make big cats a point for many people. What exactly is a capstone species, and why is it so difficult to define?Find out more on part 1 of this 2 part episode of CFAR Sounding.
Release Date: March 2, 2014 |
