Kentucky’s newest zoo is on historic land

CARLISLE, Ky. (FOX 56) – Daniel Boone constructed a cabin on a Nicholas County farm again in 1795 and lived there for 4 years.

It was in all probability fairly quiet within the wilderness, however it’s not quiet now. Guests to the land can hear loud birds, bleating goats, and the grunts of camels.

A 12 months in the past, the 125-acre farm grew to become dwelling to a zoo known as “Wendt’s Wildlife Journey.”

Proprietor Shaun Wendt stated operating a zoo is “a life dedication.”

The farm is dwelling licensed to deal with 500 animals, from kangaroos to zebras, sloths, unique birds, and camels.

It’s no shock that Shaun Wendt grew to become a zookeeper. The Wisconsin native is the third era in his household to personal and exhibit unique animals.

“My grandfather raised all these animals within the 50s and 60s,” he stated. “My uncle and his household have a park in The Dells in Wisconsin.”

For the previous 25 years, Shaun and Julie Wendt and their three youngsters have gone to festivals and festivals with their cell petting zoo.

“We’re simply uninterested in touring,” Shaun stated. “We’d wish to have the folks come to us as an alternative of us coming to the folks.”

Julie stated, “We had been driving by at some point and noticed the ‘on the market’ signal and stopped and it simply appeared proper.”

They purchased the farm and over the previous 5 years, they’ve constructed a zoo that’s drawing crowds, despite the fact that it’s 45 minutes from an interstate freeway. They are saying folks appear to like that they will get so near the animals.

“Years in the past I stated to Shaun that I didn’t need any animals that may eat my youngsters,” Julie stated jokingly.

“There are already enlargement plans. Quickly, you’ll be capable to get on a hay wagon and trip behind tall gates to rise up near the bison, ostriches and elk.

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“We’ve huge plans for the following 5 years,” Shaun stated. “There might be a number of development.”

One factor he want to add is a giraffe exhibit, however that’s a giant funding which will take some time to finance.

The most important reward for the zookeepers is seeing different folks love the animals they love a lot.