Enjoy a safari without leaving Ohio

LeopardPhoto byIrma Bense/Pixabay

Did you know you can enjoy a safari without traveling to Africa? For this fun adventure, head to The Wilds. Nestled in southeast Ohio, it covers more than 10,000 acres and is one of the world’s largest conservation centers. It’s home to animals from around the world, and the Wildlife Safari will take you off-road for an up-close look at these majestic creatures. Here is a sample of what you’ll discover:

Bactrian Camel

Critically endangered, Bactrian camels are identified by their two humps. They live in the deserts and grasslands of Mongolia, and their wide hooves prevent them from sinking in the sand.

They can last long periods without food and can drink up to 35 gallons of water at one time.

Cheetah

Don’t try to outrun a cheetah. You won’t win. They’re the world’s fastest land mammal. Cheetahs reach speeds up to 70 mph, which they can only sustain for a short distance.

Their fur is yellow or tan, with black spots covering nearly their entire body. The spots provide camouflage, and like human fingerprints, the spots are unique to each cheetah.

Southern White Rhino

Weighing up to 6,000 pounds, southern white rhinos are among the largest land mammals. They stand up to six feet tall at the shoulder, while their front horns average 35 inches in length.

These creatures feast on short grasses, and their flat, wide upper lips help them get close to the ground.

Reticulated Giraffe

Native to the savannas of eastern Africa, reticulated giraffes are easily identified by their “large brown spots separated by cream-colored lines.” Males grow between 16 and 18 feet tall, while females are slightly smaller at 14 to 16 feet. Their long necks help them reach food sources other animals can’t.

The reticulated giraffe population is shrinking and could become extinct in the wild.

You’ll find The Wilds at 14000 International Road in Cumberland. It’s open from May through October, with the last tour departing at 4:00 p.m.