DONATIONS poured in when Tropiquaria Zoo, near Watchet, announced it was raising money to create a permanent home for a rescued bobcat.
Bode was welcomed into the zoo in January after his owner was convicted of animal neglect-related offences.
Bode was one of 30 exotic cats that were likely to be put down if they were not taken in, as the chance of rehoming was limited due to the cats not being highly endangered.
Tropiquaria Zoo stepped in to help, but they were limited to what they could take, as the zoo’s size meant they could not take the pumas and lynx.
The zoo said that out of the 30 or so cats, three were put down for medical reasons, while the rest were rehomed.
This includes Bode, taken in by Tropiquaria, who was the last cat left on site.
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Despite initial plans to rehome Bode to a rescue centre in the Netherlands, staff at Tropiquaria reportedly fell in love with him.
This prompted the zoo to launch an online fundraising appeal so they could create a permanent enclosure.
The £3,500 target was reached in just six days.
A zoo spokesperson said: “We are so heartened that our Go Fund Me appeal has hit 100% of its target £3,500 for Bode the bobcat’s new home.
“You are all truly amazing.”
“Bode is a remarkably handsome chap”
They added: “Although we have hit our initial target, donations can still be made on the Go Fund Me if you do wish.
“All additional funds will be spent on further development of the new enclosure to include even more exciting features!
“We’re working as fast as we can and we can’t wait to get cracking and to welcome you all to see it!”
One of the potential new additions could be a water feature, as the zoo said bobcats are more likely to interact with this.
Bode joined the zoo in January Picture: Tropiquaria Zoo
The zoo is also seeking a large amount of natural rock and is appealing for anyone who can help to get in touch.
The zoo opted to modify an existing enclosure rather than create a new one, as they say the cost of creating a bespoke enclosure would have cost upwards of £10,000 as well as planning consent.
A spokesperson said: “Bode is a remarkably handsome chap and is slowly winning the hearts of his keepers here.
“He has settled very well and very much enjoys his lunch time.
“Unfortunately you won’t be able to see him – he is currently in off-exhibit enclosure space but rest assured he is being well taken care of and seems very relaxed now that he has had some time to settle in.”
Keep an eye on the Tropiquaria Zoo Facebook page for updates on Bode.
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