Global Wildlife Center
Global Wildlife Center turns 35 this year! That's 35 years of bringing humans to meet tons of wild, exotic animals who freely roam over several hundred acres in Folsom, LA. That's not the only important milestone this year. Kameel, the matriarch reticulated giraffe, turned 33 years young on June 13. She's the second-oldest giraffe in North America and proudly watches over her tower (herd) of 10 other giraffes. Her youngest descendent, Noah, was born in April this year.
About Global Wildlife Center
Animal lovers can experience Global Wildlife Center's resident animals in several ways. The classic Wagon Tour takes dozens of visitors on a guided safari through the 900-acre land for one hour and 15 minutes. The free-roaming deer, antelopes, watusi, bison, and everything in between will happily come up to the wagon to get some delicious snacks that you can feed them from a cup or from your hand—depending on the animal. Those who want even more animal action can take the Private Pinz tour. Up to eight guests will be loaded onto a Pinzgauer vehicle that can go anywhere on the grounds.
Having been on the Safari Wagon a few times in my life, I was treated to the Private Pinz tour. This private experience was incredibly thrilling; the animals definitely know they can charm you into pouring the treats right into their mouths and stand ready. The llamas are pleased to be hand-fed as they use their prehensile lips to delicately take the nibbles rather than their teeth. I made friends with Mike Bison, who was happy to pose for photos. The towering tower of giraffes can be more shy, but they can't resist some treats. If they're in a great mood, they may paint a picture with you on the Private Pinz Tour.
Back at the welcome center, there are numerous activities that get you up close to docile smaller animals. The capybaras are available to help you paint a picture. You put paint upon a canvas, which goes into a bag, then you guide the friendly capys to stand on it and personalize the artwork. The capys that I met, named Tater, Tot, and Chip, were pleased to munch bamboo leaves while getting pet. Scratching them in the right spot will inspire them to roll over for belly pats.
As Global Wildlife Center continues to evolve, the dedicated staff is planning all kinds of new initiatives and events, as well as adding new species of animals. In July and August, children on the A/B Honor Roll from the previous school year can get a free Safari Wagon tour ticket. Adults will enjoy the sunset safaris for golden hour animal viewing. Keep up with the wild happenings on Global Wildlife Center's website.
