In January of 2010 we had a story of Donald Schultz living in a room of snakes for 10 days in Las Vegas to bring awareness to the need for antivenoms.
This year we are seeing another animal expert putting himself in with some dangerous roommates. Jim Jablon from the Wildlife Rehabilitation of Hernando County, will be spending the month of January in a lions den. He is sharing their space to help gather donations for the facility. Taking care of these animals is no small expense…$50,000 is just the low end of the expenditures. I bet food & vet care could jack the cost up fast if a new animal is added or one becomes ill.
If you are wondering if Jim is locked in a cage with wild lions; kind of. He is very familiar with the lions as he is their caregiver. Although I don’t think a lion is ever tame. He also has a “lock out” or “safe room” where he can shut himself in if it gets a bit crazy. From what I have read the lions love Jim but, are not use to him being with them 24 hours a day for 31 days. Wonder if they will look at him as a threat or nuisance when he seems to never leave? You know, kind of like those relatives that you love for short visits but, in no way want to spend “that” much time with.
Anyhow, you can go over and watch for Jim and his large kitty friends at their live cam Live Stream Living in the Lion’s Den. If you have an Ustream Account you can chat with other viewers. When I have went by, they have had at least 1 moderator so they chat has been flowing well. The best time to see the lions is during daylight hours. They are on Eastern Standard Time so keep that in mind.
FYI – I am not a wimp. I have also snuggled up to many lions, I have played with them, even let them sleep with the kids…Just because they are plush stuffed lions does not mean they are not just as dangerous. LOL