Open 361 Days a Year: Admissions 10:00am – 3:30pm; park closes at 4:30pm

Search
Close this search box.

Due to significant flooding and impassable roads in our region from Tropical Storm Helene, the WNC Nature Center is temporarily CLOSED.

All of our animals are safe and accounted for, and there is minimal damage to the habitats. However, Swannanoa River Road and the main bridge to the Nature Center were washed away, and it will take time to reopen. We will undoubtedly need your support as we rebuild. 

Donations can be made at www.wildwnc.org/donate.

Program Wagon Rolls Into the WNC Nature Center

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

The WNC Nature Center is continuously focused on the well-being of the animals in its care, along with creating more dynamic presentations for guests. Inspired by the many AZA institutions moving towards a hands-off animal program style, the Education Team created a portable, ecosystem-inspired presentation wagon to showcase ambassador animals in a more naturalistic setting. 

 

By providing ambassador animals more choice in their environment, this allows for more natural movements and a greater diversity of behaviors to be showcased. Guests can see up-close the way Box Turtles explore their environment as they climb, burrow, or crawl through the assorted features of the program wagon. “This new presentation wagon benefits our animals and guests- we are truly excited for this enhancement,” said Eli Strull, Curator of Education. 

The program wagon was designed and built at the WNC Nature Center and rolled out its debut in February 2023. The Education Team is currently creating two more program wagons for additional ambassador animals to be presented in this way.  Just like a house, these carts are outfitted with “furniture” for the animal to thrive and interact with, and the WNC Nature Center needs your help stocking up on things like caves, plants, and driftwood.  If you’d like to donate, please check out our Amazon Animal Wishlist.

Next time you’re visiting the WNC Nature Center, be sure to keep an ear open for program announcements over the intercom and join us for a fun and educational demonstration of our ambassador Box Turtles in their new digs!

Tropical Storm Helene

 A Message from the Friends of the WNC Nature Center Executive Director Wednesday, October 2, 2024 Due to significant flooding and impassable

Read More »

Become a Member

Become a Nature Center member today and enjoy savings and benefits!