NOTE TO MEDIA: Images are available here. Photo credit can be found in the file names (example: Grahm S. Jones, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium). 

CUMBERLAND, Ohio —It’s time to celebrate! This year marks a significant milestone as The Wilds commemorates 30 years of impactful conservation initiatives and unforgettable guest experiences. In honor of this achievement and as a token of appreciation for the unwavering support received over the last three decades, The Wilds will share inspirational wildlife stories, host exciting events, and offer special monthly discounts throughout 2024.

The Wilds’ beginnings date back to the visionary efforts of community leaders, including then Columbus Zoo director Jungle Jack Hanna, in the 1970s. Their foresight, along with the generous donation of land by the Ohio Coal Company, a subsidiary of American Electric Power, helped lay the groundwork for an incredible endeavor that would restore land and offer the region unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Established on nearly 10,000 acres of reclaimed, surface-mined land in the rolling hills of southeast Ohio’s Muskingum County, The Wilds was formally incorporated as The International Center for the Preservation of Wild Animals, Inc. (dba The Wilds) in 1984. In 1994, The Wilds opened to the public, inspiring visitors with immersive tours through open-range pastures. The Wilds has since grown into one of the largest and most innovative conservation centers in North America, championing initiatives to advance local and global wildlife conservation through science, education, and other engaging guest opportunities. 

“We are extremely grateful to our staff, volunteers, partners, and other friends and supporters who have been a part of this journey with us over the years. From developing one of the most successful rhino breeding programs in the country to significantly expanding our economic impact in the region, we are proud of what we have accomplished together over the last 30 years. We look forward to celebrating with everyone this year as we continue to pursue our mission: to empower people and wave wildlife, in Ohio and around the world,” said Tom Schmid, President and CEO of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds.

Highlights of The Wilds’ 30th celebration include:

• Monthly exclusive discounts on tours and lodging. (Each new promotion will be announced on the 30th day of the month, with the exception of the April promotion announced on March 28.)
• New tour (Coming in Spring 2024). The brand-new Behind-the-Scenes Safari will offer guests a unique opportunity to discover a day in the life at The Wilds. Participants will go behind the scenes with Conservation Medicine, Animal Management, and Ecology team members to watch animal procedures, feed animals in pasture, and see wildlife ecology in action. 
• Debut of historical timeline display (Coming in late Spring 2024). This compelling timeline will be debuted in The Wilds’ Bing Overlook Facility and highlight the history of the land.
• Guest memories on The Wilds website and social media. Over the years, thousands of guests have been an important part of The Wilds’ history and created special memories of their own. The Wilds is inviting fans to email their favorite photos of these enjoyable Wilds moments for an opportunity to have them featured on The Wilds website and social media. 
• 30th celebration-themed merchandise. Guests can purchase a unique item commemorating their visit during this special milestone for The Wilds.  
• Launch of online store (Coming in late Spring 2024). The Wilds’ fans can send the perfect, one-of-a-kind gift to a loved one by shopping our online store while also knowing that their purchase makes a difference for wildlife. 
• 30th celebration-themed fundraising events, including Fall Safari at The Wilds on October 11, 2024. During Fall Safari at The Wilds, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy select tour destinations, food and beverages, a mission-focused presentation by Wilds staff, and a live auction and Fund-A-Need to raise funds for impactful capital projects at the conservation facility.

“The Wilds is truly an incredible destination getaway, and we are so fortunate to have it right here in Ohio. With the breathtaking landscapes and diverse array of rare species, to our unique overnight accommodations, safari options, and the expertise of our dedicated staff, The Wilds offers an unparalleled experience for visitors of all ages to enjoy. We're excited to celebrate this special year with our guests and continue sharing the wonders of The Wilds with the world,” said Dr. Joe Smith, Vice President of The Wilds.  

Fun Facts: Did You Know?

• In 1992, Przewalski’s horses became the first species introduced to The Wilds’ pastures. The species is still represented at the conservation center today!
• Big Muskie, the locally-famous and world’s largest dragline excavator, made its last cut to the east of The Wilds.
• The Wilds has been continuously accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) since 1996.
• In 2009, a southern white rhino calf was born at The Wilds and was the first recorded fourth-generation white rhino to be born in professional care.
• In 2010, Persian onagers were born at The Wilds and were the first wild equids ever produced through artificial insemination.
• In 2017, The Wilds’ white rhino breeding program was recognized by the AZA with an Edward H. Bean Award for its contribution to the sustainability of the breeding program.
• In 2019, The Wilds was recognized by the AZA with the Volunteer Engagement Award for innovation in diversity and inclusion for the facility’s Outstanding Wilds Learning (OWLs) program for teens.

For more information about The Wilds’ conservation initiatives, educational offerings, how to become a member, or to schedule a tour, please visit TheWilds.org and follow The Wilds’ social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok. 

###

About The Wilds
The Wilds sits on almost 10,000 acres of lush landscapes along the Appalachian Byway and attracts nearly 120,000 visitors annually. With the mission of Empowering People. Saving Wildlife., The Wilds is among one of the largest, cutting-edge conservation centers in North America and is home to more than 500 animals representing 28 rare and endangered species from around the world. The Wilds operates tours, overnight accommodations, special events, and summer camps as a source of revenue. The Wilds is located at 14000 International Road in Cumberland, Ohio, about 90 minutes east of Columbus. The Wilds is open year round, with a full line of tour options running from May through October and specialty tours available from November through April. For more information, visit TheWilds.org.