Where The Wild Things Thrive

When approaching the North Florida Wildlife Center in Lamont, you will begin to feel as if our region has transformed into an exotic realm. The massive oaks, pines, and trailing vines hide a place brimming with animals you might only glimpse in the wilds of Madagascar.

Guided by his passion for wildlife conservation, love of animals, and desire to educate people on rare and endangered species, founder and executive director Ryan Reines opened North Florida Wildlife Center in 2019. Today, more than 10,000 guests have taken part in self-guided tours, guided tours, special events, and up-close animal encounters, all while supporting the 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

Photos Courtesy of WildlifeRefugeCenter

“Whether they came to see a sloth up close or learn about endangered birds, our goal is for each visitor to walk away with a greater appreciation for wildlife and the role we all play in protecting it,” Reines says.

Reines notes that—given the pandemic—the center’s first few years were uncertain, but as they gained support from donors, volunteers, and visitors, they were able to establish themselves as a haven for diverse species and a beacon of education.

The center has experienced significant growth in the past year alone, opening new and improved exhibits, welcoming animal residents, offering enhanced guest experiences, pursuing conservation partnerships, and recruiting more wildlife professionals.

Photos Courtesy of WildlifeRefugeCenter

Hikari Miya is an animal care specialist whose primary duties are to feed the animals and ensure their environments are comfortable, while also answering guests’ questions and promoting biodiversity.

“Animal encounters are super informative in that guests learn everything from natural history to the diets of the animals they are interacting with,” says Miya. These encounters allow guests to stand face-to-face with animals for feedings, photos, and staff-assisted petting. Guests can meet foxes, lemurs, sloths, kangaroos, avians, and even the famous giant anteater, Bumi.

Reines has created a sanctuary that provides lifelong care for endangered and non-releasable species. The staff treats each animal resident in congruence with their natural instincts while providing the human care necessary to protect and preserve, so we can cherish their presence long into the future.

Photos Courtesy of WildlifeRefugeCenter

Plan Your Visit

Self-guided general admission hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased additionally for animal encounters and guided tours. All proceeds benefit conservation, public education, and habitat restoration, as well as facility improvements and expansion. Visit northfloridawildlife.org to learn more.