DINE OUT FOR WILDLIFE

In Sonoma County, the intersection of animal advocacy spans both the protection of wildlife and the rescue of farm animals in need, reflecting a deep commitment to compassion and conservation. This dual focus recognizes that safeguarding our local ecosystems and supporting farm animal welfare are intertwined aspects of a holistic approach to animal advocacy.

Protecting our wildlife community involves preserving the delicate balance of natural habitats, ensuring that species like mountain lions, foxes, and native birds can thrive amidst a landscape increasingly shaped by human activity. A number of Sonoma County organizations work tirelessly to monitor wildlife health, maintain crucial habitats, and educate the public on coexisting with these magnificent creatures.

Simultaneously, rescuing and caring for farm animals addresses the plight of animals in agricultural settings, many of whom face neglect, abuse, and worse. By providing sanctuary, medical care, and rehabilitation, Goatlandia and our partners give these animals a second chance at life and promote humane farming practices.

Together, these efforts create a unified front for animal welfare, where the protection of wildlife and the rescue of farm animals reflect a broader commitment to a compassionate and sustainable coexistence with all creatures. This integrated approach not only supports diverse animal communities but also fosters a culture of empathy and stewardship across the region. Goatlandia, True Wild, and Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue are united as partners, each playing a vital role in protecting and supporting the animals we cherish in Sonoma County.

Learning Through The Living With Lions Project

Photo Credit: Q.Martins/Audubon Canyon Ranch

One of the ways that Goatlandia, True Wild, and Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue collaborate is in their education programs, with the goal of encouraging Sonoma County residents to take responsibility to protect their herds from Apex predators, like the occasional Mountain Lion that shares territories with our local community.

A spectacular example of collaboration is the Puma Proof Pen. Puma is another name for our local Mountain Lion or Cougar, and in the Spring of 2019, Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue paired up with the Living with Lions Project to design and construct a Puma Proof Pen.

This pen is designed to protect domestic livestock, such as sheep and goats, from predation against apex predators like the mountain lion. The goal when designing this pen is to encourage farmers and hobbyists to coexist with wildlife providing a feasible option for those who do not have the space or income to build a barn to place domestic animals in overnight.

Learn More About SCWR's Exclusion Services

Photo Credit: Q.Martins/Audubon Canyon Ranch

This is a pivotal moment for the mountain lion population in our area.

The Living with Lions project is a collaboration between True Wild and Audubon Canyon Ranch, researching mountain lions in the North Bay. Earlier this year they were shocked to find one after the other of their GPS-collared mountain lions dying. An unknown disease killed over 60% of the monitored cats. Having these data made it all the more concerning to think what was happening to the uncollared population? They have estimated 70 mountain lions live in Sonoma County. Has that dropped to 30? Because of their study, they were able to help mobilize biologists and veterinarians around the country to try to uncover the cause of these deaths.

Despite grappling with these disturbing questions, new life brings hope. Two of the remaining females that they have collared now have young kittens!

True Wild Benefit Auction

Thank you to everyone who attended an enchanting evening to benefit True Wild. Extra special thanks to all those who donated and/or participated in the auction to support True Wild. It was an extraordinary evening, thanks to all of YOU!

What: A 4-Course Long Table Dinner

When: 5:00 PM Saturday, October 5, 2024

Where: Goatlandia Farm Animal Sanctuary
1567 Cunningham Rd, Sebastopol, CA 95472

Why: A benefit to support True Wild's mountain lion coexistence work in the North Bay

Evening Highlights:

Long Table Barn Dinner: Share a special evening with up to 30 guests at a beautifully set long table in one of our new barns.

4-Course Dinner: Indulge in a delectable four-course meal paired with exquisite wines (craft zero-proof options available).

Cuisine by Chef Deb Blum: Enjoy the culinary creations of Goatlandia Kitchen’s Chef Deb Blum.

Presentation by Dr. Quinton Martins: Hear from Dr. Quinton Martins, founder of True Wild and principal investigator of Living with Lions, about their impactful work and vision.

Silent Auction: Participate in our silent auction and bid on exclusive items and experiences to benefit the wildlife coexistence work of True Wild with its Fiscal Sponsor, Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue.

*Optional* ~ Arrive early and join us at 4pm to enjoy a Goatlandia Sanctuary Tour: Explore our beautiful sanctuary grounds and meet our delightful herds of goats, sheep, pigs, alpacas, horses and more!

Ticket Pricing:

$175 per person (includes wine pairings)

$150 per person (includes craft zero-proof beverage pairings)

Reserve your spot for a memorable evening that supports True Wild's mission and celebrates community and compassion.

To help True Wild receive the most of your donation, please consider paying by check! Simply RSVP to: deborah@goatlandia.org with your and your guests’ names.

Please make your check payable to the event host, Goatlandia, and send it to: 2336 Olivet Ln, Santa Rosa, CA 95401.