The Wild Animal Park might have taken a wrong turn. July 26th, 2008 I took my friend to the Wild Animal Park because she had never been there before. Everyone needs to visit this place at least once?completely different than zoos and Sea World attraction parks.
Unlike other sanctuaries, the Wild Animal Park was not originally created for human delight?was not planned to be opened to the public (can tell by the landscaping). The Wild Animal Park was strictly made for breeding purposes?furthermore, to help increase the numbers of the endangered species.
July 26th was extremely disappointing since the monorail no longer exists; instead, there is a tour bus that shows off 60% of the animals (compared to the monorail). A few more species you saw on the monorail?not the bus?were the okapi (relative to the giraffe), camels, the African Wild Asses (can be seen from a distance at the tiger exhibit), the mountain goats, and many more. The guests view far less animals riding the new bus; however, the animals are easier to see thanks to the bus. Personally, I prefer the monorail to the bus.
I truly hope the Wild Animal Park does not forget their introductory intentions--to preserve animals in a natural environment; this is what separates the Wild Animal Park from other exhibits. This monument was not created to view animals up close. The monument allows animals to remain in a somewhat natural environment?not surprising how many successful breeding stories they have.
Go to the San Diego zoo or other exhibits if you wish to see animals up close; go to the Wild Animal Park if you wish to see animals in a natural comfortable environment (not intended for the comfort of humans). A LOT OF WALKING (EVERY EMPLOYEE IS IN GOOD SHAPE), CAN EASILY REACH 90 AND 100 DEGREES IN SUMMER (YOU ARE TRAVELING MAINLY TO AFRICA AND PARTS OF ASIA). COMFORT OF ANIMAL CONDITIONS--NOT HUMAN!!! ICE CREAM IS AWESOME!!!
Pros: mostly non-caged animals in a somewhat natural environment, successful breeding, learning experience
Cons: new bus, view 60% of animals (compared 3-4 years ago), no more monorail :(
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