Wild Animal Sanctuary
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a 789-acre animal sanctuary in Keenesburg, Colorado, where visitors can learn more about the plight of large predators. This nonprofit organization rescues these animals from ill-treatment, owners who no longer care for them, and even euthanasia.
The sanctuary is a favorite destination for people traveling to Colorado. Visitors can meet some of the world’s most exotic animals at the sanctuary. The sanctuary was established in 1980 and has helped rescue nearly 1,000 animals from circuses and zoos. Some of these animals have come from far away, including 33 lions from a circus in Peru.
The sanctuary also offers programs and education. Visitors can join the summer safari dinners or other fundraisers. The Wild Animal Sanctuary education center has many educational videos about various animals. Adoptions are another way to help support the organization. All fees raised will go toward the care of these animals.
The main entrance of the sanctuary is located at the Welcome Center, which has ample parking space. The Center serves as the start and end point of the self-guided tour of the facility. Visitors who donate money to the sanctuary will be welcomed by volunteers who will tell them about the sanctuary and how to navigate through the different habitats. They will also be shown an informative video that explains the various habitats. The Sanctuary features an elevated walkway that allows visitors to walk over the animals’ habitats.
The sanctuary’s Mile Into the Wild walkway is the longest footbridge in the world and will take you across several of the Sanctuary’s massive habitats. This 1.5-mile walkway allows visitors to view the animals from above without disturbing the wildlife. The walkway is open every day from 9am to SUNSET. Admission costs $50 for adults and $30 for children.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a good place to take your kids, as they will get to interact with other animals from around the world. Children will learn the importance of protecting animals and their habitats. Visitors can also contribute to the sanctuary’s mission by making monthly donations.
Banner Lakes State Wildlife Area
The Banner Lakes State Wildlife Area is an ideal location for waterfowl hunting and fishing. This area is home to several ponds and marshes. Motorized boats are not allowed here. Visitors can also take walks along the many trails and enjoy the shaded walking areas. In addition to waterfowl hunting, Banner Lakes offers many other outdoor recreation options.
There are a number of rules and regulations that apply to the Banner Lakes State Wildlife Area. Public access is prohibited at night from 9:00pm to 4:00am. Boating and fishing is allowed only at designated areas. Camping is allowed during certain dates, but is prohibited outside of these dates. No firearms or bows may be used. No firearm discharges are allowed except during deer and elk seasons.
Hunters with a limited access permit may be accompanied by two (2) non-hunting individuals. No dogs are allowed on the property. No target shooting or building blinds is permitted. Overnight camping is not permitted. It is recommended to make reservations ahead of time. The property is located near Denver, making it a popular destination for last-minute hunters.
Fireworks are prohibited on the property. Dogs must be kept on a leash. Public access to the property is restricted to foot or horseback, and vehicles are prohibited in the designated parking areas. Hunting is allowed only during regular seasons for elk and rifle deer, and on a drawing basis. The public is prohibited from discharging firearms or bows except when a permit is in order.
Waterfowl hunting area
There are a number of open waterfowl hunting areas in Keenesburg. The area near Big Bend Wildlife Area is one such location. However, it is closed to everyone but hunters from April 1 to July 15, when the area is closed to protect nesting waterfowl. While you can still visit the area, be sure to check the rules, as some areas are restricted to bowhunting only and firearms are not allowed.
In addition to waterfowl hunting, the area surrounding Duck Lake is also popular for deer, squirrel, and dove hunting. Make sure to check with the area’s headquarters to learn about hunting seasons and the limits. Also, be aware that the area undergoes active habitat management throughout the site.
Regardless of the type of waterfowl you are looking to pursue, locating the best spot to hunt for it can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are many options available for Colorado waterfowl hunters, including many public lands. In fact, many of these public lands offer top-notch shooting. Fortunately, Colorado’s parks and wildlife departments maintain a comprehensive website containing detailed maps of these areas.
