The Wild Animal Sanctuary is the World’s Largest Network of Captive Wildlife Refuges

More than one thousand lions, tigers, bears, wolves and other rescued exotic animals live on 33,000-plus acres of land within Colorado and Texas. They live in large acreage habitats at The Wild Animal Sanctuary, which is now the world’s largest network of captive wildlife refuges. These amazing creatures, along with historically free ranging mustangs, have a wonderful new life after being saved from terrible situations within the United States and around the world.

Tiger Kamal / Photo: Courtesy of The Wild Animal Sanctuary

The non-profit organization operates four unique facilities in two different states, with each facility having its own special design for the type of animals found within its borders. The main headquarters of this operation is located just 30 miles northeast of Denver, Colorado and this 1,214-acre facility is open to public visitation on a year-round basis. Visitors can observe hundreds of lions, tigers and bears and other exotic animals living in large natural spaces by strolling along an elevated walkway above the animals’ habitats.

Baby Leo / Photo: Courtesy of The Wild Animal Sanctuary

The organization’s 22,500-acre refuge for wild horses is also located in Colorado but is found in the northwestern part of the state near the town of Craig. This facility is open for visitation by appointment and offers special guided tours throughout the year. Herds of wild and majestic mustangs run freely within wide open expanses, just as they did for hundreds of years before they were removed from their native ranges by government agencies.

Situated near the town of Springfield, Colorado in southeast corner of state, the organization’s 10,000-acre refuge for rescued lions and other captive wildlife is not open to visitors on a year-round basis. However, special events for supporters who contribute to the facility are held twice per year and allow supporters to participate in a driving tour through the massive refuge. Completely forested with juniper and other species of evergreen trees, the facility’s rugged landscape and lush valleys offer an incredible habitat for animals.

Wolf / Photo: Courtesy of The Wild Animal Sanctuary

The Sanctuary’s smallest facility is located near the town of Boyd, Texas and offers its exotic animal residents a haven where they can also live their lives within spacious enclosures and natural habitats. With just 41 acres available, the facility only cares for a handful of rescued animals. However, the staff and volunteers working at this facility enjoy their ability to spoil every rescued animal and help educate the public about the captive wildlife crisis in America today. This facility offers private tours by appointment, but they’re limited to active supporters of the organization.

For those who take the time to visit the Sanctuary’s main website, there is a wide variety of insightful information about the animals that come into their care. Numerous fun, beautiful and highly educational videos also help visitors to gain a better understanding of this remarkable non-profit organization’s mission. To learn more, visit WildAnimalSanctuary.org.