Arnolds Wildlife Center, Okeechobee, FL

On December 30th, I drove to the north side of Lake Okeechobee to the town of Okeechobee to visit Arnolds Wildlife Center. I was there about 5 years ago and was very impressed with Sue Arnold, her volunteers, and the animals they take care of. There was a panther in a cage with 2 bobcats and they all were cuddled together. Sue told me at that time that whenever they separated the cats they cried and wanted to be together. Now, several years later, they are all still together.  I got a photo of the bobcats, but the panther was sleeping not cuddled up with them this time like last time I visited. Photo Album IMG_8507

When I arrived, besides peacocks, and dogs walking around loose, there were 2 deer. One only had 3 legs, one leg had to be amputated when the deer arrived with an injured leg when it was young.  It got around fine on 3 legs and she loved to be petted. I was very fortunate that she came over and let me pet her. So did the other deer. I have seen deer before, but had never been able to pet one and interact with it up close and personal. What an amazing experience! IMG_8546

There are many endangered and rare species of birds, cats (not domestic house ones), monkeys, etc.  It seems that many animals are brought here that are injured and need care, or in many cases the owners are not able to take care of them anymore. Two Cotton Top Tamarin monkeys were among a group of various types of monkeys brought to the Arnolds. They have since increased in number, 3 babies were born 2 months ago. It’s really cute to watch them play and interact with each other and their parents. Babies are in the left center of the photo. They are not tame, and will bite so holding and petting is not a good idea. IMG_8490

Someone turned in 2 bobcats, and unfortunately they were declawed so they have to remain caged for the remainder of their lives.  A new addition to the wildlife center is a Fishing Cat, it’s a rare and endangered species of cat that comes from Vietnam. It actually likes to fish and its eyes are closer together for the purpose of watching the fish. IMG_8524

I don’t know the names of all the various kinds of birds, but some of them were absolutely beautiful. The 2 cockatoos were really funny. When I was near their cage they came and held on to the front of the cage so I could pet them and they talked constantly loving attention as cockatoos usually do. IMG_8475

If you are anywhere near the north side of Lake Okeechobee, near the town of Okeechobee, stop by Arnolds Wildlife Center and visit. Tell Sue Arnold that you read about her wildlife center on my website. Here is a link to their website: https://www.arnoldswildlife.org/. Donations are also accepted to help with the care and feeding of the animals.  I can tell you from personal experience that all the animals here looked well cared for and are very loved.

I created a new photo album with the pictures I took of various animals at the wildlife center. In case that link doesn’t work, try this one.

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1 Response to Arnolds Wildlife Center, Okeechobee, FL

  1. Janine and Dean says:

    We took a drive to your Wildlife Center in Feb 2015. It was well worth the four hour drive. I was just overwhelmed with your facility. Thank you for all you do for all the various animals that come to you for whatever reason. All of the animals you care for are fortunate. More so than they would of been in many cases, unless surrendered, They all look very healthy. I was amazed by your local resident deer, Bucky I think but could be wrong.. The sweetest wild animal I have ever been so fortunate to encounter.. Not only that he will lick/kiss a person to death.. They don’t come much tamer than that. I know never approach a wild animal! However this time it seemed pretty safe as the deer came to me first and licked my hand.. I wish you all the very best. and again, thanks. Best wishes, Janine

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