ROCK SPRINGS, Wis. (AP) -- The Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue and Educational Center for lions, tigers and leopards has opened at the Sauk County community of Rock Springs.

Founder Jeff Kozlowski and a crew of volunteers led visitors through the fenced-in sanctuary on the south edge of the village during the weekend.

Kozlowski says the animals came to the facility from owners who mistreated them or decided to give them up.

Kozlowski housed his cats on land east of the village two years, but came into conflict with some neighbors and county officials who said he did not have proper zoning and didn't comply with rules governing exotic animals.

He established the new refuge after coming to an agreement with the Village Board on zoning regulations and rules for safe operation of the center.