Chippewa Falls’ largest feline residents have a new, impressive home. Before now, cougars Tia and Tacoma resided in a barren, 750-square foot cage at Irvine Park Zoo. Their new abode, however, spans 2,600-square feet and includes features such as trees, grass, rocks, and waterfalls. Bill Faherty, director of the Chippewa Falls parks, recreation, and forestry, said the cougars’ $330,000 pad is necessary so the public will feel better about the living conditions for the animals. “I think this way the people will feel a lot better about the conditions for the animals because they’ll be a lot better off and a lot healthier,” he said. The new exhibit’s design is by ThemeScapes, a company that has also worked with high-profile clients like the Minnesota Zoo and the Rainforest Café. Eau Claire resident Dana Thompson has gone to the Irvine Park Zoo for years, and says she is glad the cougars have finally got a larger exhibit. “I hope this one is much better,” said Thompson. “I love big cats and used to have to watch them pace back and forth.” Tia and Tacoma have lived at the Irvine Park Zoo since 2004. Faherty said the zoo obtained them from an animal dealer in Madison. According to the National Park Service, in the wild cougars patrol an area of 125 to 175 square miles. Cougars are the largest cat in North America, and were once found across the whole continent.
– Sara Adams and Carrie Weiss