I've lived in San Diego close to two decades, and I just heard about Wild Wonders in Bonsall. We took a tour of this wildlife refuge that is only open for private tours, and events.
What Makes it Special?
We got to get up close and personal with every animal, and heard their harrowing stories of survival. Many of these endangered animals were illegally owned and living in dire conditions before being confiscated, and rehomed at Wild Wonders.
We met Tavi a striking cheetah that was born a singleton. Cheetahs normally give birth to more than one pup. When only one pup is born the mother usually kills the baby. So Tavi was raised by humans, and that's where his story of survival began.
At the turn of the 19th century, more than 100,000 cheetahs are estimated to have been living in Africa, the Middle East, and elsewhere in Asia. According to Wild Wonders Director Jackie Navarro, these days Cheetahs are highly endangered there are less than 10,000 left.
We met Jackie early one Sunday morning on the hills of Bonsall.
She took us on a tour and meet in greet with some of Wild Wonders one hundred animal ambassadors!
We met a Serval, a pair of Kinkajous, a Boa Constrictor, Binturongs, Wallabys, a Kookaburra, Great Horned Owl, Oppossum, Red Eared Slider, Hedgehog, and an Armadillo!
The tour was very hands on. My thirteen year old son found it exciting and informative. One of the great pleasure of this job is meeting the people of San Diego doing what they love. In this case Jackie Navaro's love of animals was inspiring. Wildlife is in crisis and it's all hands on deck. Jackie is there with her sleeves rolled up caring for many endangered species. We highly recommend a visit to Wild Wonders in Bonsall (just outside Escondido).
Don't Miss This Upcoming Holiday Event @ Wild Wonders!
Winter Wonders Holiday Lights tour is a delightful experience for the whole family. Come meet their nocturnal ambassadors in the glow of holiday lights. Dates for these annual events are December 15-17, 21-23, and 28-31. All tours start at 4:30 and are limited to 15 people. The family-friendly price for Winter Wonders is $39 for Adults (12+ years) and $20 for Children (5-11 years). Book soon for best availability.
To set up a private tour visit: https://wildwonders.org/
Tel. 760 630 9230
