Winter on the Wilds
Winter on the Wilds is a remarkable program that gives you and your
family fun opportunities to discover unique winter wildlife at the
Wilds.
Programs include wildlife watching, hiking, adventures into the Wilds'
unique habitats, and some indoor activities. All programs
take place on a Saturday.
2008-09 WINTER ON THE WILDS PROGRAMS
November 8
Calling in the Owls
Learn owl natural history, food habits, and go for a night hike to
call in owls. 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
November 15
Pirate Letterboxing
Join us for an exciting challenge. Letterboxing involves using a compass,
pacing and following clues that lead you to a mysterious treasure.
Are you up for an adventure, matey? Some rugged walking.
November 22
Where Are They Now?
Do the Wilds’ native and non-native animals stay year round,
migrate, hibernate or go into a specialized barn? Visit some of the
Wilds’ animals in their winter homes and find out how they spend
these colder months.
December 6
Wild Cats
Check out several bobcat scent stations for tracks and discuss bobcat
natural history and behavior. Then, visit the cheetahs at the Carnivore
Center to observe differences and similarities of some wild cats. Some
rugged walking.
December 13
Seasonal Adjustments
How do the animals that are in pasture year round survive the cold
winter months? Do they get cold? While traveling though the pastures,
observe animals’ adaptations to changing seasons. Then visit the
Wilds’ winter facilities to see some of the species – including
the rhinos – that need special shelter during Ohio’s cold
winters.
2009
January 3
New Year Resolution Hike
No more couch potatoes. Enjoy a guided hike to a remote location and
let the site of a wintery waterfall reward your efforts. Some rugged
walking.
January 10
Eagle Survey Day
Count bald and golden eagles on the Wilds and along the neighboring
eagle habitats. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
January 24
Wild Winter Tour
Come see what the animals do in the winter. See who stays out and who
comes in. Visit winter animal facilities and see some species up close!
January 31
Winter Survival Skills
As the temperature plummet and the days become shorter, do you shy
away from camping and hiking? Learn how to enjoy the outdoors year
round through proper planning, equipment and packing.
February 7
Raptor Field ID Day
Enjoy live bird presentations by the Columbus Zoo staff and field identification
training while exploring birding areas on the Wilds.
February 14
Love is in the Air
Learn how the Wilds’ creatures impress each other with courtship
rituals that make us smile and squirm, and meet an endangered species
up close! Find out how Species Survival Plans act as a match maker
for animals around the world. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
February 21
Cabin Fever Tour
This tour will be the last chance of the season to see the Wilds’ animals
in their winter facilities. See some species up close!
March 7
Go Take a Hike
Are you ready to spend more time in the great outdoors, but aren’t
sure how to hike and camp responsibly? Then this day is for you. Learn
and practice the seven Leave No Trace ethics as we explore the wild
side of the Wilds.
March 14
Welcome Spring
Get ready because here it comes – warmer weather and longer days.
We’ll help you prepare for the season by building a birdhouse
or toad abode. Additional $5 materials fee.
INFORMATION for ALL WINTER ON THE WILDS PROGRAMS
- Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
- Cost: $15 - adults, $9
- children 11 and under.
- Reservations and pre-payment required. Contact
the Wilds’ Reservations
Coordinator at 740-638-5030 ext. 2286 or reservations@thewilds.org.
Reservation deadline is the Tuesday before each program. Space is limited. We recommend early registration, as some programs fill up quickly.
- Cancellations: Programs are subject to cancellation based on weather, or if minimum
attendance requirements are not met. Participants will be
notified of weather cancellation by noon on the Friday before
the program; and by the Wednesday before the program if the cancellation
is
based on
attendance. Cancelled programs will be rescheduled as dates are
available.
- Refunds: All fees are non-refundable, except when programs are
cancelled by the Wilds.
- Questions about the program? Contact Conservation
Education Specialist Troy Burch at tburch@thewilds.org or
740-638-5030 x2231.
- Preparation: Be prepared to spend time outside. Bring plenty of warm layers (coats, coveralls, hats, gloves, boots, etc.), lunch, a coffee mug, and a thermos (cocoa and coffee will be provided).
- For your convenience: The Wilds Gift Market will be open during
Winter on the Wilds programs.
- Meet at the main parking lot on International Road.