Sky Valley, CA

Immerse Yourself in Desert Life

Discover the enchanting desert oasis at Kitty’s Wildlife Rescue & Refuge! Nestled in a remote desert landscape, this unique refuge is not just a destination; it’s an immersion into the resilient and diverse world of desert life.

Thirty years ago, Kitty and her young son embarked on a journey to transform a barren homestead into a thriving sanctuary. Through their dedication, over 200 trees were planted, blossoming into a lush haven that offers shade, water, and a home for the indigenous wildlife. Today, Kitty’s Wildlife Rescue & Refuge stands as a vibrant example of environmental regeneration and the rich biodiversity of desert ecosystems.

This is your chance to explore the wonders of desert flora and fauna in their natural habitat. From the hardy cacti and majestic yuccas to the clever desert tortoises and the playful ravens, each element of the preserve tells a story of survival and adaptation.

“We have the choice to use the gift of our life to make the world a better place—or not to bother.”

— Jane Goodall

 

Introducing Kitty

Kitty’s Wildlife Refuge & Rescue is immensely grateful to Spencer Schilly for creating a wonderful video that captures the essence of our sanctuary. With a distinguished career spanning over 20 years, Spencer is a highly skilled writer, director, producer, and editor. We are thrilled to have his expertise shine a light on the experiences and wildlife encounters at our refuge.

 

Come Visit

Perfect for families, Kitty’s Wildlife Preserve offers an engaging experience for children, especially when our desert tortoises emerge from hibernation. The cooler months bring a different kind of magic, with educational tours focusing on the active wildlife, particularly our chatty ravens who love to entertain.

Join us at Kitty’s Wildlife Preserve & Rescue for an educational adventure that celebrates the beauty and resilience of the desert. Come connect with nature, inspire curiosity, and foster a deeper appreciation for our planet’s incredible ecosystems. Experience the desert like never before—through the eyes of someone who has called it home and helped it flourish.

About Kitty

Our guided tours are led by Kitty herself, whose 30 years of knowledge, passion, and compassion illuminate every step of the way. Learn about the unique adaptations that allow life to flourish here, from deep-rooted plants that sip water from below to nimble animals that thrive under the sun.

In The Media

Kitty’s Wildlife Rescue and Refuge frequently garners media attention for our dedicated conservation efforts. Learn more about our story and the impact we’re making

The Experience

What You’ll Learn…

This unique educational experience reveals the surprising diversity of desert  wildlife as well as flora and fauna, showcasing their remarkable adaptations.

Visiting Kitty’s Wildlife Refuge, you gain a comprehensive understanding of how diverse life forms adapt to one of Earth’s most challenging environments. Beyond the knowledge, the most impactful takeaway is a profound respect and appreciation for the resilience and interconnectedness of all living things.

This visit promises to transform your view of the natural world, deepening your appreciation for its complexity and beauty. The most important lesson you’ll carry with you is a newfound love and appreciation for all living things.

In nature, nothing exists alone.”

– Rachel Carson

$45/per person

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2 Hours - Guided Tour

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Maximum 10 guests per tour

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Tours available daily

Your Generosity Makes all the Difference

Kitty’s Wildlife Rescue and Refuge is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and your support is crucial for the maintenance and continuation of our work. The generosity of nature lovers like you helps us finance the care of the animals and the upkeep of the refuge. We are committed to preserving this natural sanctuary, where creatures of all sizes can live in harmony and respect. Please consider making a donation today!

If you’re passionate about wildlife and conservation, consider sponsoring our refuge. There are numerous ways to get involved, and we would be thrilled to hear from you. Your contribution not only supports the ecological balance but also promotes education and awareness about the importance of protecting our natural world. Join us in our mission to create a safe haven for wildlife and ensure a healthier planet for future generations. 

Give ’em Hell Kitty

This summer, a talented team of LA-based filmmakers descended on our sanctuary to capture the essence of what we do. Their goal? To share Kitty’s inspiring story and the incredible bond between humans and wildlife with the world.

Get ready for its big debut at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival! This documentary not only highlights the challenges and triumphs of wildlife preservation but also serves as a call to action to protect these vital ecosystems.

Whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to our cause, this film will deepen your appreciation for nature and inspire you to join us in our mission to save and celebrate earth’s magnificent creatures.

Kitty’s Blog…

Wildlife Rescue on Trial: The System vs. The Guardians

What Really Happens When You Rescue Wildlife… and the System Turns Against You? What would you do if you devoted your life to helping injured wild animals—only to be punished for it? In this eye-opening and deeply moving conversation, I sit down with Kitty Pallesen, a...

Sky Valley’s Beloved Wildlife Refuge Rises from the Floodwaters!”

For over 30 years, Kitty’s Wildlife Refuge & Rescue in Sky Valley has been a sanctuary for injured and displaced animals, a hidden gem in the Coachella Valley dedicated to compassion and education. But one year ago, disaster...

Desert Dog Death Camp

In a disturbing turn of events, Mary Bernadette Schwenn, the owner of a dog camp in Thousand Palms, has been arrested on charges of animal cruelty. The arrest occurred early Monday morning at her property, located at an unincorporated parcel near Thousand Palms Canyon...

Filmmakers to Chronicle our Legal Battle at Sundance Film Festival

Kitty Pallesen's dedication to rescuing desert wildlife has long made Kitty's Wildlife Refuge & Rescue a sanctuary for creatures great and small in Coachella Valley. For years, Kitty has provided a safe haven for animals that other veterinarians could not—or would...

Desert Sanctuary Under Siege by the State

In the tranquil expanse of Sky Valley, Kitty Pallsen has become a beacon of hope for injured wildlife through her sanctuary, Kitty's Wildlife Refuge & Rescue. For 28 years, Pallsen has devoted her life to rescuing animals ranging from domestic pets to injured...

A Lifeline for our Valley’s Most Vulnerable Creatures

In the heart of the Coachella Valley, Kitty Pallesen has transformed a barren landscape into a thriving sanctuary for desert wildlife. For nearly three decades, Kitty’s Wildlife Refuge & Rescue in Sky Valley, near Desert Hot Springs, has been a beacon of hope and...