The Wild Animal Sanctuary is expanding following the acquisition of a new plot of land that is 12 times the size of its current facility near Denver, Colorado.
Founded in 1980, The Wild Animal Sanctuary rescues large animals that have been abused, abandoned, exploited or illegally kept in captivity. It rehabilitates the animals before releasing them to live and roam freely within large natural habitats.
Visitors can view more than 460 lions, tigers, bears, wolves and other rescued animals while traversing the ‘Mile into the Wild’ elevated walkway at the current 320-hectare facility.
Already considered the largest carnivore sanctuary in the world, the organisation has now purchased a 3,643-hectare ranch located in southeastern Colorado to provide space for additional rescued animals.
The new land consists primarily of hills, canyons and rocky bluffs blanketed in various species of pine trees, as well as valleys and pastures flowing with native grasses. According to sanctuary management the property is well suited for hosting wildlife.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=203&v=TeCJzME1KeM
There are no immediate plans to allow visitors at the new refuge, with the initial focus being to set up habitats and infrastructure for newly rescued animals. The Wild Animal Sanctuary will continue to welcome guests at its original facility, which receives more than 150,000 visitors annually.
The first animals could arrive at the new location this summer, subject to adequate funding being secured.
Images: c. The Wild Animal Sanctuary.
