Carolina Tiger Rescue is a non-profit wildlife sanctuary located in Pittsboro. Its mission is saving and protecting wild cats in captivity and in the wild. It began in the 1970s as a research institute with a breeding program but now focuses entirely on rescue and conservation education. Our private tour will begin with a short presentation, and then we will walk through the animal sanctuary with a trained guide. We will learn about the different species living at Carolina Tiger Rescue and the problems they face in the wild, as well as the challenges they face in captivity. We will have the opportunity to ask questions and take photos, but there will be no physical contact with the animals.

Our next stop will be The Plant in Pittsboro where we will eat a “farm to fork” lunch provided by Copeland Springs Farm. We will learn about the farm operations and about the eco-industrial park that is home to the Chatham Beverage District, and a variety of small businesses. A farm-tour and beverage tastings are included.

Notes: Wear comfortable closed-toe walking shoes; bring a filled beverage bottle, sunscreen, hat, camera, and bug spray. Participants must be comfortable walking on uneven, unpaved paths, and be able to climb a few steps. Participants will be required to comply with all NC State University COVID-19 directives in place at the time of this study trip, which may include wearing a mask.

Includes: Transportation by NC State bus, lunch, tours and tastings.

Depart: McKimmon Center at 8:30 a.m. 

The bus will pick up outside the front entrance of the McKimmon Center a few minutes before departure. Please arrive in plenty of time to park your vehicle and meet the group. OLLI Assistant Director, Joan Hardman-Cobb, will meet you on arrival and will accompany the group on the study trip. You will receive a reminder email approximately one week before the date with further instructions on where to meet.

Return: Approximately 3:30 p.m.

Registration Deadline: April 10