West Yellowstone’s Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is a not-for-profit facility that focuses on education and wildlife. They offer 365 days of annual grizzly and gray wolf fun. The animals at this remarkable center were originally unable to survive without human intervention. In fact, the prestigious Association of Zoos and Aquariums has accredited the center’s work.
Believing that knowledge is power, the center focuses on teaching visitors about these hunting mammals. Helping save animals from certain death, many of the grizzly bears here were rescued from imminent death or were orphaned in the wild. Other grizzlies were nuisances to humans, as they had become too comfortable with approaching people. Instead of destroying these animals, the center gave them a second chance at life.
The wolves at the center were born in captivity and were simply an unplanned litter that would not survive if released into the wild. Growing up together, these wolves have formed a pack and have given scientists the ability to analyze the strong social ties that naturally develop between wolves.
Additionally, the facility is home to 10 birds-of-prey that were injured or abandoned and cannot be returned to the wild. Known as the “Raptors Exhibit,” birds are available for daily viewings from May through November. Their birds include a Saw-Whet Owl, Golden Eagles, American Kestrel, Bald Eagles, Peregrine Falcon, Rough-Legged Hawk and a Great-Horned Owl.
With several weekly programs, including wolf enrichment education, bear basics and wildlife watching, this facility is geared towards teaching the public about the importance of our natural, yet delicate ecosystem and maintaining a balance between humans and wild animals.
The center also features a museum that includes both black and grizzly bear taxidermy mounts. The museum’s theater includes children’s programs, educational wildlife movies, staff demonstrations and presentations. The onsite staff also provides excellent information, including life-saving tips for hiking and camping in bear country.
Recently the center has added a 200-seat outdoor amphitheater, in addition to an otter and river habitat exhibit. They have also added a new kitchen to help improve storage, preparation and processing of the animals’ diets.
The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center accepts donations and also allows people to adopt animals. This isn’t adoption in the traditional sense, but one that helps provide necessary funds for this non-profit facility.
Yellowstone Holiday is a premiere West Yellowstone lodging facility. They offer both West Yellowstone RV parks and camping, making it the ideal summertime destination for families on a Yellowstone vacation.