Wildlife sanctuaries in the USA tell you the hidden tales of the animal kingdom. You have the feeling of entering a new world consisting of different species of mammals, birds, reptiles, fishes, and so many others. More than 1,000 sanctuaries are present in the United States. These are special regions for the rescued animals.
Moreover, the authorities take good care of the abandoned and neglected species. Today, these incredible places are open to the public. Therefore, if you are a natural enthusiast, a trip to the mystic sanctuaries can provide an unparalleled experience. The mechanical era is slowly destroying the greeneries and wildlife of this Planet. However, to save the animal kingdom and Mother Nature, we should take small steps.
I strongly believe that the wildlife sanctuaries play a significant part in conserving the wildlife. Furthermore, I am a great nature lover and never miss a chance to spend some beautiful times with innocent creatures. If you also wish to be on this journey, follow this guide. It will tell you about the top 6 wildlife sanctuaries in America and how you can visit them.
Table of Contents
Here are the 6 Wildlife Sanctuaries in the USA
Wildlife sanctuaries in the USA are the homes of innumerable species from different corners of the world. Moreover, you can understand the living styles of each sanctuary animal and come across many unknown species.
1. Arctic National Wildlife Refuge
This is the largest wildlife sanctuary in America. Apart from the marvelous fauna, it is also the meeting point of three ravishing rivers, viz. Wind, Sheenjek, and Ivishak. Stretching up to the Arctic coast, this wildlife refuge displays a unique picture of the animal kingdom.
Eisenhower established this place of natural importance in 1960. Today, you can find several rare species of animals and birds, like Dall sheep, Arctic Grayling, muskox, and others, amidst the forest-equipped land.
Location and Size
The wildlife sanctuary stretches up to the Yukon River basis, starting from the southern part of the Arctic Ocean. Moreover, it covers a total area of about 19.64 million acres and is 200 miles long.
Biodiversity
The natives of this forestland include the Gwitch’in tribe residing in Northwest Canada and several interior parts of Alaska. Besides, you can also find the Inupiat people here coming from the north coast of The Arctic. The primary purpose of this refuge is to protect the diverse and endangered species and even let them breed for conservation purposes. Some of them are;-
- Polar Bears
- Salmon-sized Dolly Varden char
- Arctic Grayling
- Muskox
- Caribou
Being situated in the coastal region, it is the home to several fishes also.
Additionally, it is a brilliant combination of five main ecological regions viz.
- Boreal Forest
- Coastal Plain Tundra
- Alpine Tundra
- Coastal Marine
- Forest Tundra transition
Activities and Attractions
You can indulge in multiple splendid activities in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Consider it to be a heaven for adventure lovers. I will definitely vouch for this place due to the following activities;-
- Hunting
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Bird Watching
- Packrafting
- Photography
- Berry Picking
- Canoeing
2. Chimp Haven
Chimp Haven of Louisiana is famous for the mindblowing collection of the world’s most intelligent species. I hope you have understood about whom we are talking about. Yes, you got that right. This place is indeed the haven for the Chimpanzees.
This natural habitat came into existence in 1995 and became a savior for the chimpanzees in captivity. Furthermore, the woodlands take personalized care of all the Chimps and promote a good life for them.
Location and Size
This environmental protection ground spreads for about 200 acres and occupies a prominent place in Louisiana, United States.
Biodiversity
As it is clear from the name, the major motive for establishing Chimp Haven is to protect the retired, old, and innocent chimps in captivity. Today, the place boasts to be the proud home for more than 300 species of Chimpanzees rescued from different places. Of course, the variety of flora will also impress you.
Activities and Attractions
This place is not open to the public throughout the year, unlike most of the other sanctuaries. However, you can interact with the Chimps on special occasions and create some memorable moments. Click pictures and indulge in some fun moments. You can take the special Safari also around the woodlands. The dense forest is a complete recreation for nature enthusiasts.
3. Animal Place
Animal Place is one of the specially prepared wildlife sanctuaries in the USA. This place is the result of the cumulative efforts of Ned Buyukmihci and Kim Sturla in 1988. Furthermore, it was created with the objective of protecting the farm animals. We understand how helpful domestic animals are for our living. Many people also earn bread by depending on the livestock.
However, the Nature and Wildlife authorities of the USA have seen that many farm animals suffer from torture while living amidst humans. Slaughtering is one of the reasons for lowering the number of several species. As a result, this wildlife habitat took form to find a shelter for these innocent farm animals.
The organization fosters the responsibility of humans toward unwanted domestic animals and promotes vegan food habits.
Location and Size
Animal Place is a must-visit spot in the USA for the safari lovers. The special home for farm animals is situated in Grass Valley, California. Initially, the place started its journey, spreading across only 60 acres. However, with time, it extended to include many other animals. Presently, the area is about 600 acres.
Biodiversity
I will undoubtedly suggest this place to watch more than 300 rescued farm animals. The common species include;-
- Donkeys
- Chickens
- Sheep
- Goats
- Bunnies
- Turkeys
- Cows
- Pigs, and others
Activities and Attractions
This place is perfect for self-guided tours and watching the interesting farmland animals. The timings for the safari are 10 am to 4 pm from Tuesday to Thursday. You can experience the snooze, slumber, play, or lounge of the animals. Visit the barns, take pictures, and feel how comfortable and happy these animals are in their safe enclosures.
4. Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue
This is indeed the peaceful land for the rescued donkeys. Humans always have a tendency to put all their burden on the poor donkeys. I always felt bad for these innocent creatures. It may seem funny, but I admire donkeys whenever I visit any zoo or national Park. Thus, this place in the USA marks to be one of my favourite safari destinations.
In 2000, Mark and Amy Meyers observed the neglect most donkeys get from the humans. It touched them as they decided to purchase their first pet donkey. They selected a pasteurized land to provide sufficient care and medical support to the abused donkeys.
This was the beginning of Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue. To date, it is working for a safer environment for the donkeys and gives them all the love and care.
Location and Size
This is the renowned wild animal sanctuary in Texas and calls for attention in San Angelo. The place was a former dairy. However, today the total area of the land is around 172 acres. Concord, Virginia, is also another rehabilitation facility under the same organization.
Biodiversity
Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue serves the lonely and abused donkeys. Therefore, you can find different varieties of Donkeys here and an abundance of pasteurized fields. The donkeys can roam about freely and enjoy themselves away from the crowds.
Activities and Attractions
I had a great time interacting with friendly donkeys here. The visitors can take free tours around the sanctuary and indulge in different activities with the donkeys. You can
- Pet
- Clean, or
- Feed
the donkeys. No extra charges or restrictions are there for befriending these innocent and most helpful animals.
5. Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary
This place is a superb conservation structure to protect the horses. It is a non-profit seeking center and works for a high-quality living for different categories of horses. Moreover, the wild horses get every freedom in this lovely place without much human interference. The organization contributes to herd management for wild horses and their common problems.
Location and Size
This wildlife sanctuary in the USA is located in South Dakota and spreads across 11,000 acres.
Biodiversity
The main variety of horses found over here is the Mustangs. The total number of Mustang horses residing in this place is over 350. The species are;-
- Spanish Mustangs
- American Mustangs
- Choctaw Indian Mustangs
- Curly Mustangs
Activities and Attractions
- Day tours: 4 tours every day. Duration of 2 hours each.
- Private-guided tours: No specific number of tours. Minimum of 3 hours of duration each
You can cover the area by riding on a small bus for touring purposes in this area.
6. Catskill Animal Sanctuary
Catskill Animal Sanctuary of the US is famous for taking care of multiple farm animals. It includes cats, dogs, ponies, and several others. Some of you may think that the sanctuary is only made for rescuing cats from its name. However, the reality is that it thinks about the well-being of several farm animals rescued under different circumstances.
In 2001, there was a terrific fire in a barn at New York. Jesse Moore, along with Kathy Stevens, first formed this sanctuary to rescue Dino, a tiny pony, the only survivor of the incident. Soon, it became the home for several poor animals and thus ended the lives of exploitation.
Location and Size
This sanctuary is in New York, USA, and is spread over 150 acres of land.
Biodiversity
Catskill Animal Sanctuary is the rescuer for more than 5000 animals. In total, there are 10 different species of farm animals living safely in this region.
Activities and Attractions
You can go for a day tour in this place. The different spots are;-
- Hessel Museum of Art
- Opus 40
- Poet’s Walk Park
- Saugerties Lighthouse
- Falling Waters Preserve
and many others.
Conclusion
Want to witness the sanctuary animal from more proximity? Check the different wildlife sanctuaries in the USA. I have talked about the top 6 places for wildlife attractions, including Arctic National, Catskill, Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue, Black Hills Horses, and a few more.
It is an earnest request to all nature enthusiasts to support these protected habitats and different projects for wildlife conservation.
Protecting the planet from the harsh realities is essential in the present-day situation. Therefore, we all have to be more responsible about Mother Nature and the animal kingdom. Visit more sanctuaries and enjoy a superb day altogether.
