In Memoriam: Bandit (c. 2022-2022)

Smokey and Bandit came to us as kittens from the Humane Society. Though we don’t know their circumstance, we do know that only 25% of cats born outdoors survive. Unfortunately, Bandit stayed outdoors one night (as ranch cats sometimes do) and never came home. We miss him a lot! 

Bandit was a beautiful white with black being! Your support, no matter the amount, helps us say yes to more animals in need. 

Smokey and Bandit were our original ranch hands. They came to Robin’s Nest as tiny kittens, adopted through the San Diego Humane Society in 2023. Smokey, a sleek and solid black boy, and Bandit, striking with his white coat and black markings, quickly became part of the family.

After several months of growing, exploring, and bonding, the duo graduated to full ranch duty—roaming the property and taking on their natural role as guardians of the feed sheds, keeping pesky varmints in check.

Smokey was steady and cautious. Bandit, ever the adventurer, had a bold spirit and a habit of pushing boundaries. One evening, Bandit didn’t come home. Despite our hopes, he never returned. We try not to dwell on what might have happened, but we must also face the harder truths of ranch life—where wild things still roam and the balance of nature isn’t always kind.

Bandit was beautiful, brave, and deeply loved. Not long after his disappearance, we reviewed outdoor camera footage and noticed something unusual: our alpacas, known protectors in their own right, were standing watch in a way we’d never seen before. We believe they sensed danger that night, and did their best to protect both Bandit and the land he called home.

Though his time with us was too short, Bandit left a lasting impression. His memory lives on through Bandito, his spirited successor.

Be sure to read the story of Bandito and how he stepped into some very brave little paws.