Giraffe Drool at Fossil Rim

Peek-a-Boo

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is 1800 acres of animals animals animals (over 1000 representing 50 or so species). Although we love animals, most of you know neither of us likes zoos much. The drive-thru style can be almost as sad as the cages, but Fossil Rim has lots of space for addax, bongo and the scimitar-horned oryx to roam along with more familiar species such as deer and elk, zebra and giraffe. The animals are plentiful and seemingly happy. We didn't opt to get a bag of feed, but the animals didn't know that, so they approached the truck to check us out. One of the giraffes was so excited he drooled all over the driver's side arm-rest and Donny's shorts.

According to their website, here's the mission: "Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is dedicated to conservation of species in peril, scientific research, training of professionals, creative management of natural resources, and impactful public education." They are involved in the Red Wolf Recovery Program, have internships and educational programs for teachers, kids, and home-schoolers.

Apparently, the current director has brought the park back from near bankruptcy with some shrewd business decisions, but since this place is pretty far off the beaten path, they could probably benefit from some more patrons (not too many though...it was really nice not to be rushed through). Click here for photos.