Savannah may not have its own traditional zoo, but there is a place where some of the world's most diverse creatures roam in habitats very similar to their home.
The Oatland Island Wildlife center features a 2 mile native animal nature trail that winds through maritime forest, salt marsh, and freshwater wetlands. Along the way, visitors can observe native animals such as Florida panthers, alligators, diverse raptors and many more in their natural habitat.
More than 50 indigenous Georgia animals are used in educational programs, many of which are an endangered and threatened species. "All the animals we have at Oatland either are native or at one time did range into Georgia," said the center's director Chris Gentile.
And if just seeing these animals isn’t enough, you can even adopt one of your favorite wildlife friends. "The money that they give helps us take care of the animals for that year", said Gentile. Oatland Island wildlife center is located 5 miles east of Savannah off the Islands Expressway.
They are open Monday through Friday 9 am- 4 pm and Saturday and Sundays 10am-4pm. For more information visit OatlandIsland.org.
