This Hidden Sanctuary South Of Cleveland Is Home To The Largest Herd Of Sichuan Takins In America
By Nikki Rhoades|Published October 20, 2019
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
What if I told you that Ohio is home to an impressive herd of one vulnerable species? You’d probably envision something majestic and large like elephants or giraffes, but our resident critters are more closely related to goats. If you’re striving to learn about endangered and at-risk animals outside of the Cleveland zoo, you’ll have to head a few hours outside city limits. You’ll find the largest breeding herd of Sichuan takin in North America in a conservation center south of Cleveland, an impressive sight to see for nature lovers of all ages.
Today we're going to travel from Cleveland to Cumberland to take in the glory of a totally unique landscape.
The Wilds is close to Columbus, but it's a trip every Ohioan deserves to take. At this incredible conservation center, exotic creatures live in total harmony. It's a 2 to 3 hour trek from home, depending on the route you take, but it's totally worth the drive.
Here, visitors have the opportunity to get up close and personal with incredible critters.
The mission of The Wilds is to lead and inspire through animal interaction, and they do so by introducing you to the wonders and struggles certain species face. Its primary hours of operation are April through October, though winter tours are offered in the cooler months and overnight accommodations accept guests through December. Click here for hours and ticket pricing.
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You'll encounter a number of animals during your visit, but few are as darling as the Sichuan takin.
Takin are in the same family as goats and antelopes, but they almost look like they could be related to cows, as well. These fascinating critters are obviously not native to Ohio - they live alongside giant pandas in Chinese bamboo forests.
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Though these gorgeous little guys are cherished and protected in China, Sichuan takins are still threatened.
Habitat loss and poaching leave Sichuan takins vulnerable to the threat of extinction. We don't know exactly how many are left in the wild, though they are listed as vulnerable in terms of their conservation status.
Yes, Ohio boasts the most impressive breeding herd of Sichuan takinas in the entire continent. They thrive at The Wilds, and each spring they often welcome new members to the herd.
In the spring, expecting mommies often welcome just one kid at a time into the world... and they are adorable.
These adorable little babies are able to traverse most terrain just days after their birth. In the wild, herds of hundreds form during this time. As resources grow scarce in the winter months, ginormous herds often break off into small groups of about 20 individuals.
At The Wilds, it's not uncommon for several babies to be born in one season, adding greater numbers to the largest Sichuan takin herd in North America.
In addition to Sichuan takin, you'll also spot critters like giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and ostriches. However, you should definitely plan to check out the majestic Sichuan takin during your visit - these guys are truly incredible.
While many have not heard of Sichuan takin, our local herd is inspiring future conservationists every day.
This incredible conservation center south of Cleveland is impressive all year round. Have you ever visited The Wilds? We’d love to see pictures of your visit!
