Press Room

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 1, 2007

Cumberland, OH (May 1, 2007) – The Wilds opens its visitor season this Saturday, May 5, with a new Safari Transport system, providing enriching opportunities for visitors to experience the 10,000-acre wildlife conservation center.

Visitors have the option of departing the transport at four unique destinations along the route at their own PACE – Personal Adventure in Conservation Education.

In addition to viewing 25 non-native animal species from around the world in open, natural environments, guests may depart the transport shuttle at the Lake Trail, The Wetlands, The Outpost, or, later this season, the new Mid-Sized Carnivore Conservation Center.

Shuttles will run about every 10 minutes between the stops.

“Visitors may choose how long they want to spend at each destination,” said Toni Kellar, Marketing & Communications Officer at the Wilds. “It’s a great way to spend outdoor time with your family while learning about important conservation efforts at the Wilds.”

Interpretive guides will be at each destination to further enrich the visitor’s educational experience. Transport shuttle operators will continue to offer interesting information about the conservation history of the various species viewed between stops.

All safaris end at the Overlook, where visitors can enjoy a restaurant, gift market, and picnic areas with beautiful views.

The Wilds is one of the largest and most innovative wildlife conservation centers in the world, with a mission of advancing conservation through science, education, and personal experience.

The Wilds will be open Saturdays and Sundays throughout the month of May, and then Wednesday through Sunday during June, July and August. The facility will also be open Saturdays and Sundays during September and October. Safari Transports run 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The new Carnivore Center will be home to cheetahs, African wild dogs, and dholes, and will be open to the public in June.

Other experiences available at the Wilds include popular Sunset Safaris on Saturday evenings June through September, and WildeCamp overnight camps for children and young adults ages 8-19.

For more information, see www.thewilds.org or call 740-638-5030.