This place is not just for children, it’s for everyone who adores animals!
Upon arriving I was a tiny bit worried they’d turn me away with no kids in sight. After that, I was relieved to be welcomed with just the two of us.
The Setup.
Be prepared for walking a lot or a little if that’s your preference. The property is about 20 acres. Walking paths are dirt with some gravel in places. Inside areas are cement paths. They have plenty of benches to sit on (with shade trees), restrooms, gift shop with beverages and snacks. A colorful site map is given to everyone.
What’s great about the Nature Retreat.
The unique set up geared towards visitors feeding the animals. You get your very own bucket (for $5.00) filled with barley grown on the premises. I highly recommend doing this as the animals gravitate towards you resulting in a delightful experience. Each animal is very gentle taking the barley from you. Before your set free to roam, a short informative video explains the correct feeding process to avoid any accidentally bit fingers.
Why you should be a Member.
They are a nonprofit dedicated to enriching the lives of all who visit & providing support (education access) to families in West Africa.
We decided to become members and I’m so looking forward to returning again and again. My favorite animal? Thor the tortoise. I just wanted to give him my whole bucket of barley so I could watch him munch away.
Animal watching.
While sitting on one of the many benches with shade I was able to observe some fascinating behavior. The Friesian horses possess just exquisite beauty and cleverness. One likes to cut in front of the other to be first in the food line, however after some time he changed his tune and waited for his fellow horses to eat first. I can’t wait for the baby pigs to grow out of their heat light so I can watch them run around and play. They were just so adorable napping. During my admiration of the handsome bull, he gently sniffed my hand before slowly eating the barely.
After feeding a goat she decided to quickly kiss my hand, showing me some love. The camel seemed to pose for his pictures, while being his mellow self. The bison followed me along the fence line while I slowly walked. He was not interested in my bucket. However he seemed to like standing next to me, proving that my company was appreciated.
A very memorable day.
Sure was fun feeding the animals. We should go feed them again Sunday!
Oh now that’s an excellent idea!
I love places like this. Zoos have a monopoly on memberships and attendance but here you get a personalized, immersive experience that would never happen in a bigger forum.
Yes I agree, it was such a joyful feeling of communing with the animals big and small.
Thanks to you, I have learned of the Ecovivarium and now this place! You rock!!
Ahh thank you! You’ll have to visit soon!