Press Room

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 10, 2006

Cumberland, Ohio - The Wilds is offering a chance to experience the changing seasons in new ways with a series of programs led by trained naturalists, kicking off this weekend. "Winter on the Wilds" provides opportunities to discover unique winter wildlife at the Wilds. Day-long programs have been scheduled select Saturdays October through March. Programs will feature wildlife watching, hiking adventures, exploration into the many habitats of the Wilds and various indoor activities.

This season's programs will begin Saturday, October 14 with "Autumn on the Prairie", a hiking trip focused on the vast prairies and grasslands of the Wilds. Participants are encouraged to bring field guides, sketchbooks and binoculars, and join the Wilds' naturalists for a guided exploration of the plants, animals and birds that make up grassland habitats. This session's participants will also have the chance to help staff collect seeds as part of the Wilds' prairie restoration projects.

All "Winter on the Wilds" programs run from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Reservations and pre-payment are required, and the cost is $12 for adults and $6 for children under 12. Participants should be prepared to spend time outside, wear layers of warm clothing and bring their own lunch, coffee mug and thermos (coffee and cocoa are provided).

Other programs scheduled for the coming season include: "Wilds Birds - Birding the Wilds & Bird ID Classes" November 11 and December 9; "Eagle Survey Day" on January 6, 2007; "Winter Hawk - Raptor Field ID/Zoo Bird Day" January 13 and February 10, 2007; and "Bison Prairie Day" on March 10, 2007.

The Wilds is also open for tours from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays through the end of October.

The Wilds is one of the largest and most innovative wildlife conservation centers in the world, with a mission to advance conservation through science, education, and personal experience. Located on nearly 10,000 acres in southeast Ohio, the Wilds is home to more than 25 species of non-native wildlife from Africa, Asia and North America and hundreds of indigenous species. In addition to innovative, in-depth science and education programs, the Wilds offers guided experiences to the public on selected days May through October.

Further information is available by visiting the Wilds' Web site: www.thewilds.org or by calling 740-638-5030.