Animal Ark readies for hibernation
by Rhina Guidos, Outpost contributor
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Winter is coming. The mountain lions and bobcats at the Animal Ark are saying their so longs.
If you want to get that last look at Yogi the Bear, you better hurry. The Animal Ark, a wildlife sanctuary north of Reno, will close for winter Nov. 1.
The Animal Ark is a refuge for injured, orphaned or endangered wild animals. In addition to providing protection for them, the nonprofit organization also stresses the importance of leaving animals in their natural habitat.
Human intervention is the reason why many animals who should be roaming around in the wild, are now roaming around the Animal Ark.
Take Yogi the Bear for example. He was taken out of the wild by a California couple who had him declawed. Later they decided he was too much trouble. If the Animal Ark hadn't taken him, he would be dead by now, said long-time volunteer Sue Turbow.
"People get them as a cute little pets, then it's a 160-pound animal and they can't handle it," Turbow said. "Unless we take them, they would probably have to be euthanized. Unfortunately, we can't take every animal that's brought in. A lot of times we have to turn people down."
The Ark opened in 1980 when Diana and Aaron Hiible, a couple witha love for animals, opened the refuge with two mountain lions, two bobcats, two Arctic foxes, and 6 coyotes.
The Animal Ark now houses 36 animals of 17 different species. Arkresidents include tigers, snow leopards, wolves, coyotes, kit foxes, Arctic gray foxes, bob cats and a North American lynx.
The animals serve as ambassadors for children and adults tolearn about wildlife, Turbow said.
Some of the most urgent needs are for volunteers, food and money.Turbow said the organization takes food donations of fruits left over from harvests or excess food from hunting trips.
The Ark's biggest project is building a well for the animals before it loses its water rights. It needs $20,000 to build the well.
Volunteers are always welcome, especially during summer months. Turbow was recruited eight years ago at the Craft Jamboree. She encourages anyone with a compassion for animals to join the Ark.
"These guys need love care and concern," Turbow said. "Just being close to the animals is a stress release. It's a comforting place."
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Posted Oct. 17, 1998
Copyright 1998 Nevada Oupost