McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) wildlife facility, fully licensed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the United States Department of Agriculture under the Animal Welfare Act, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
Department of the Interior.
We are dedicated to the preservation and protection of both native and exotic species. Our sanctuary is home to a diverse range of animals, including rare white tigers, endangered snow leopards, cheetahs and native species such as red-tailed hawks, barred owls, and the Florida Panther. Many of these animals are permanent residents of the sanctuary.
In addition to providing lifelong care, McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary has treated and rehabilitated hundreds of native
animals that were sick, injured, or orphaned. From foxes and bobcats to sandhill cranes, pelicans, hawks, and owls, our staff
and veterinary team have worked tirelessly to restore these animals to health, giving countless individuals a second chance at
life in the wild.
This vital work is made possible through the generosity of our donors, the dedication of our zookeepers, and the volunteers.
Together, we can continue to provide refuge, rehabilitation, and education to inspire the protection of wildlife for generations to
come.
Mark McCarthy has been working professionally with animals
since 1972. His career began at the renowned Miami
Serpentarium in South Miami, Florida, where he worked as a
reptile keeper. In this role, he cared for a variety of reptiles,
conducted facility tours, and assisted the director, William E.
Haast, with venom extractions. It was during this time that Mark
also had his first encounter with exotic cats, including Leonard, a
pet lion owned by Naia Haast.
In 1990, Mark McCarthy moved to Palm Beach County and established McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary. Situated on eight acres of slash pine and palmetto forest in West Palm Beach the sanctuary was founded with the vision of inspiring people from around the world to respect and connect with nature. Shortly after opening, Mark launched the sanctuary’s education programs. Over the past decades, he has conducted more than 6,000 wildlife programs, reaching students and communities
throughout South Florida. During this time, the sanctuary also began welcoming exotic animals, many of which have become permanent residents.
Today, Mark continues to live at the sanctuary alongside his wife Aneth McCarthy, who was his safari guide in Tanzania back in early 2004. Together they care for over 200 animals, with Aneth ensuring the sanctuary is maintained in immaculate condition providing a safe, clean and enriching environment for all residents.
Aneth McCarthy was Mark’s safari guide in early 2004. They fell in love with each other and married in 2005. She become the assistant director and lead curator at the sanctuary. With the unbelievable capability of working 16 hours days continuously she makes sure everything is perfect and running smoothly. Her experience of raising baby animals from day one is incredible with around the clock care. She has raised some of the most endangered
species such as tigers, lions, leopards, jaguars, cheetahs and a host of other creatures. Making her one of the top conservationist in his her field. She is licensed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife as a class I,II,III and venomous reptile permit keeper.
Aneth’s daughter made the life-changing move from Tanzania to
the United States. Shortly after arriving, she joined the dedicated
team at McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary, where her passion for
animals quickly became evident. Starting with the daily
responsibilities of feeding, cleaning, and providing care for the
sanctuary’s diverse residents, she steadily gained experience and
trust within the organization.
Over the years, Sabiha has grown into her role as Lead
Zookeeper. This position reflects not only her deep knowledge of
animal husbandry but also her leadership within the team. She is
a licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator with the Florida Fish and
Wildlife Commission and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
allowing her to provide specialized care to injured and orphaned
animals in need of a second chance at life.
In 2020, Jeremy Hopf became a valued member of the team
at McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary, bringing with him a strong
work ethic and a passion for animals and conservation. Since
joining, Jeremy has assumed a wide range of responsibilities that
have made him a vital part of the sanctuary’s daily operations and
long-term success.
One of his primary contributions has been in the design,
construction, and maintenance of animal enclosures. His
hands-on skills and attention to detail ensure that the sanctuary’s
residents not only live in secure habitats but also enjoy
environments that are enriching, safe, and tailored to their natural
behaviors. His efforts have directly improved the quality of life for
countless animals that call McCarthy’s home.
Beyond his work behind the scenes, Jeremy also serves as
a zookeeper and wildlife tour guide, allowing him to share his
knowledge and enthusiasm with the public. Through guided tours,
he introduces visitors to the sanctuary’s diverse residents, offering
insights into their biology, behaviors, and conservation needs. His
approachable teaching style and genuine passion help guests
form meaningful connections with the animals sparking curiosity
and inspiring a more profound respect for wildlife.
Joined the team at McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary and has been an essential part of our mission ever since. She has contributed in many ways, volunteering her time, guiding tours, and working as a zookeeper to help educate the public about wildlife. Jayme is deeply dedicated to the animals, and often comes in on holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter to ensure they receive the best care every single day of the year.
Her commitment extends far beyond the basic duties of her role.
Jayme has taken the initiative to develop enrichment programs for
the animals, creating stimulating environments that encourage
natural behaviors and mental engagement. From designing
interactive feeding exercises to crafting creative habitats that
replicate the animals’ native surroundings, she continually strives
to enhance their quality of life. This attention to detail and genuine
care have had a profound impact on the overall health and
happiness of the sanctuary’s residents.
