HOURS & ADMISSION<\/h3>\nOUTDOOR TRAILS<\/h3>\n
THE WDC'S OUTDOOR TRAILS ARE OPEN TUES\/FRI\/SAT\/SUN 10-4.<\/h5>\n
IMPORTANT: <\/p>\n
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As it has taken a while for our animals to re-acclimate to having guests, please keep your voices low, movements slow, and stay on the trail. <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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All visitors are required to wear a mask\/face covering. No exceptions. <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Also, visitors must be socially distanced. No exceptions. <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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No pets allowed.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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\nINDOOR EXHIBITS<\/p>\n
Our indoor exhibits have re-opened! The WDC's Indoor Exhibits are open Tues\/Fri\/Sat\/Sun. Admission is free.<\/p>\n
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We have great options for virtual animal experiences! Please click on the box below!<\/p>\n
VIRTUAL EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS<\/a><\/p>\n
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Hours:<\/p>\n
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Regular hours are Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10-4. <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Closed Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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There is a one-way trail set up to visit our amazing outdoor animals. <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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As always, staff, volunteers, and college interns will ensure a safe and positive experience.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Please practice social distancing and face coverings are required.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
NOTE: During spring and fall, the WDC may be closed in the morning as we accommodate visiting school groups.<\/p>\n
The Wildlife Discovery Center is a living museum and biological station at historic Elawa Farm, situated alongside the Middlefork Savanna, a 670-acre wildlife habitat in Lake Forest. You will be captivated as you experience a close-up encounter with our crocodilians and other reptiles. Visit our raptors in their outdoor enclosures or in a flight session or watch our bobcat, Boris, as he explores his "natural" eco-habitat. The WDC is home to approximately 85 species of animals. During regular visiting hours, you can talk with our animal keepers and meet some of our amazing animals.<\/p>\n
In addition to visiting our resident animals, you can enjoy a hike and nature observation on the adjacent Middlefork Trail, or visit the Elawa Farm Park where you can enjoy a picnic in the pavilion, play soccer in the field, or have fun in the huge playground.<\/p>\n
Our exhibits and programs provide an experience that will kindle a lifetime bond with nature. At the WDC, there is something for everyone!<\/p>\n
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Indoor and outdoor exhibits and an outdoor interpretive trail<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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College student internships and graduate-level research opportunities<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Classes and summer camps for children ages 4 – 15. <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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After-school programs and tours for organized groups<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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School field trips and scout badges<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Caretaker talks and feeding demonstrations and well as off-site talks and exhibits<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Opportunities for supervised interaction with select animals<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Nature-themed birthday parties for children<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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\nADMISSION<\/p>\n
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While there is no charge for individuals or groups of eight or fewer, donations are very much appreciated. <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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We rely on the help of our visitors and supporters to maintain the high quality care we provide for our animals. <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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We are currently not allowing groups of 8 or more to enter our trail or indoor exhibits without making a reservation. Please contact Rob Carmichael, Curator, at [email protected] for availability and costs. <\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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All proceeds help provide for the care and feeding of our special animals.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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