The Wild Animal Sanctuary, CO
We visited The Wild Animal Sanctuary on our way back to Denver, preparing to return home the next day. I wasn’t aware of how unique this organization is: it receives no state or federal funds, yet is known worldwide and often called upon to rescue animals in dire need. These wild animals can never return to the wild.
The elevated walkways are approximately 30 feet high and place visitors far enough above that nearby animals do not see them as a threat. At the Keenesburg location, the walkway was 1.5 miles one-way, so a round-trip to the end was 3 miles.
Each area seemed large and provided water features, dens for winter, opportunities for exercise and climbing structures for those animals who would normally do so. From what I observed, the animals seemed calm in their environments.
Any new animal undergoes a period of observation and is only slowly introduced to others when deemed safe.
There were friendly, knowledgeable staff roaming the walkways who gladly answered any questions and openly shared facts about the animals, facilities and procedures. I’m not usually a huge fan of typical zoos, and was pleased to see that this didn’t feel like one. Sanctuary is an apt description in this case, and the animals the organization has rescued are the lucky ones.
Kudos to them for the work they do!
I have never personally been to the Sanctuary but I have a friend who actively involved in them, especially the mustangs. You have now put a spur in my boot.
They seem to be a very worthwhile, unique organization. One of the staff members told us that at the sanctuary, Walmart was a significant contributor of food, making regular deliveries. It was time well spent, and we were glad we took the time to visit it.