There are plenty of places within easy reach of Ellisville where you can see our native animal species in the wild. You can also see more unusual or endangered animals at centers where the staff work hard to protect and, where possible, reintroduce them into their natural habitat. Here are four of the best locations to check out the wildlife. Castlewood State Park Less than five miles from Ellisville lies the Castlewood State Park, once a popular party resort for people escaping the city of St. Louis in the early 1900s. The park is now a natural haven of almost 2,000 acres, where you can follow the 26-miles of trails which take in the park's ridges and valleys and the banks of the Meramec River. The park is a great place for bird watching with 191 species recorded, including many waterfowl, vultures, hawks, kingfishers, great blue herons, wild turkeys, and bald eagles. You may also be fortunate enough to spot mink, river otters, beavers, skunks, and white-tailed deer, among others. more Lone Elk Park During WWII, this area was used for the storage and testing of ammunition. After the war, it became a county park and herds of bison and elk were established. However, during the Korean War, the park was taken back by the government and the herds were destroyed. A single bull elk survived and the park's name was later changed to Lone Elk Park. In the 1960s, the herds were re-established and still thrive. Designated as a wildlife management area, the park is home to elk, deer, bison, wild turkey and many bird species. The best time to see the herd animals is before 8 a.m. when the staff feeds them. World Bird Sanctuary Next door to Lone Elk Park is the World Bird Sanctuary set up in 305 acres of forest. The mission of the sanctuary is a combination of rescue, rehabilitation, research, and education. There are large enclosures for non-releasable birds, and you'll see bald eagles, peregrine falcons, red-tailed hawks, pelicans, a variety of owls, and more. Other animals at the sanctuary include snakes and bats. The sanctuary runs free family-friendly seasonal shows where you can meet some of the animals close up. Endangered Wolf Center Around 14 miles from Ellisville is one of St. Louis' best-kept secrets, the Endangered Wolf Center, which was set up more than 40 years ago. The dedicated staff at the nonprofit wildlife facility want to see a world in which endangered wolves can exist and thrive in their natural habitat. At the center, you'll find Mexican wolves, red wolves, and maned wolves, as well as other canid species, such as African painted dogs, swift foxes, and fennec foxes. You can symbolically adopt individual animals or an entire pack in return for membership of the Endangered Wolf Center and additional benefits. A visit to these parks and animal sanctuaries enables you to enjoy Missouri's native animals in their natural habitat and contribute to the conservation of endangered species. Image via Flickr by pasa47 | CC BY 2.0.
As the weather warms up, the city of St Louis comes alive with outdoor activities for everyone to enjoy. From annual festivals to immersion in nature, you are sure to find plenty of things to keep you entertained. Read on to discover a few of our favorite summer activities in St. Louis, MO. more 3 Fun Outdoor Summer Activities in St. Louis, MO 1. Explore Forest Park Known as the green lung of the Gateway City, this park's 1,300 acres of greenery and winding waterways make it one of the most beautiful urban parks in the world. Trek through more than 30 miles of paths, paddle in the Emerson Grand Basin, or admire public art at the open-air museums. Forest Park, located at 5595 Grand Street, hosts the annual Shakespeare Festival on Tuesday through Sunday evenings from the end of May through June. Each year, a different show is performed from the famous playwright's catalog. Load up the back of your Mazda with blankets, chairs, and a picnic basket for an entertaining night under the stars. 2. Missouri Botanical Gardens This beautiful attraction is particularly stunning in full bloom over the summer. Set your GPS to 4344 Shaw Boulevard on your car's full-color display screen via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, then park your Mazda in the free parking lot, which is easy to do with the rearview monitor and cross-traffic alerts. Thursday's extended evening hours make this destination perfect for a date night. Take a sunset stroll with your sweetheart then indulge in dinner on the Sassafras Restaurant's patio. Make your adventure a family affair by bringing the little ones for brunch before exploring the Doris I. Schnuck Children's Garden. Step into a tropical rainforest at the Climatron greenhouse, which is the first geodesic dome to be used as a conservatory. Immerse yourself in peaceful harmony as you meander through the Japanese Garden and end your summer by attending the Japanese festival before driving away in your Mazda. 3. Foodie Festivals Head to Ballpark Village at 601 Clark Avenue for Taste of St. Louis. This annual weekend event is designed to promote engagement between St. Louis' residents and local establishments. Sample offerings from the numerous culinary exhibits and enjoy live music while shopping local vendors and artists. For an international flare, stop by the Festival of Nations, which is the largest multicultural event in the region with more than 75 nations being represented. Enjoy a weekend in Tower Grove Park, located at 4257 Northeast Drive, where music, flavors, and art combine to deliver an experience unlike any other. We encourage you to bring some treats home from the festival and worry-not, because your Mazda's leatherette or leather-trimmed seats are easy to clean in case something spills. What St. Louis activities are you adding to your must-do list this summer? Visit us at Bommarito Mazda West in Ellisville, MO to find the perfect vehicle for all your adventures.
