Special Wild Winter Tour at the Wilds Dec. 15

By Kari Thompson

A special winter opportunity to see and learn about some of the rare and endangered animals at the Wilds will be available to pre-registered visitors Saturday, Dec. 15.

Many of the animals at the Wilds are from warm climates in Asia and Africa and must be moved from open pastures into heated animal management facilities to endure Ohio’s winters.

This Wild Winter Tour program, part of Winter On the Wilds, will offer participants a chance to see rhinos, giraffes, cheetahs and other animals up close in the specialized facilities where they spend the colder months of the year.

Some animals do stay out in pasture for the winter, like camels, bison, deer, and takin. The tour will include a drive through the pasture to view these animals as well.

The Wild Winter Tour program begins at 10 a.m. and will go to 3 p.m.

Advance reservations are required to attend, and must be made by Dec. 13. Call 740-638-5030 x2286.

Cost is $12 for adults and $6 for children under 12. Participants bring their own lunch. Coffee and hot chocolate will be provided.

Although closed for the regular visitor season, the Wilds provides an excellent opportunity for families, individuals, and groups to explore and experience the Wilds’ forests, wetlands, and prairie habitats through the Winter On the Wilds programs that take place on Saturdays throughout the fall, winter, and spring.

Designed by the Wilds’ professional conservation education staff, these day-long programs provide immersive and memorable learning opportunities on a wide variety of topics.

The mission of the Wilds, situated on nearly 10,000 acres in southeast Ohio, is to advance conservation through science, education, and personal experience.

The full Winter On the Wilds event schedule, pricing, and details are available at www.thewilds.org.