A Wild Urge

Published: May 12, 2007

Robin Greenwood's passion for exotic creatures ignited some 20 years ago, when she and her late husband - already owners of a slew of smaller four-legged companions - moved from Tampa to south Hillsborough County.

The couple gradually began rescuing large cats and caring for them on 28 acres in Wimauma, and soon incorporated a nonprofit wildlife sanctuary. With the help of some dedicated volunteers, Greenwood now cares for lions, tigers, leopards, lemurs, black bears and other exotic animals whose previous caretakers could no longer keep them.

Serving as a surrogate parent to so many wild things presents many challenges, especially when one falls ill.

But Greenwood's biggest stress is making sure she has enough money to pay for the animals' care. Much of the cost, for such things as veterinarian bills and food, are covered by donations, but Greenwood worries. The big cats, for example, chow down about 100 pounds of chicken a day.

Story, South Shore, Page 7