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Maya Papaya

Visit her in person:

Located at the St. Augustine Wild Reserve

(Tours — St. Augustine Wild Reserve (sawildreserve.org)

She's the best coatimundi you'll ever meet!

2 months old.jpg

Arrived at the St. Augustine
Wild Reserve

September 2019

Maya was born in May 31st of 2019 and brought to us at The St. Augustine Wild Reserve when she was four months old in September of 2019. She was rescued from breeder overstock. I'd never met or interacted with coatimundi before, and I was very intrigued by her. She had the mannerisms of a cat and dog combined into one! I made it a mission to always visit her at the end of my volunteering days at the Wild Reserve and slowly began building a relationship with her.

Continuing to Grow

In a matter of months Maya's body began to grow significantly as she continued to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, and chicken drumsticks. Since Coatimundis are omnivores, it is important they get a balance of both meat, fruits, and vegetables.

Building Trust

After several months of visiting, playing, and giving her a lot of attention, Maya started to remember me each week and my specific scent. Coatimundis are very scent-oriented and respond differently to a variety of different smells. Maya began chirping happily when she learned that it was me coming to visit her.

Five Years Later

Maya has become a fully grown coati!

After turning five this past May of 2024, Maya is currently the matriarch of her habitat at the St. Augustine Wild Reserve. She loves to climb, get belly rubs, and investigate new scents every day!

 

I'm thankful that I have built a trusting relationship with her and that she allows me to safely give her lots of love, attention, and care. I'm beyond blessed to have the opportunity to be one of her handlers.

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I invite you all to venture to the St. Augustine Wild Reserve and learn more about her, tigers, lions, a variety of big cats, wolves, and a many more of our rescued critters. Thank you for your support!

 

Book a tour here: Tours — St. Augustine Wild Reserve (sawildreserve.org)

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© Gaston King, all rights reserved

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