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W.Va. Wildlife with Paul Bender
WILDLIFE CENTER
Paul Bender
September 10, 2003
Reporter: Paul Bender
Videographer: Brad Rice

Would you like to be a part of West Virginia's wild animal action? It's just a short drive away. We'll take a short tour of the state's Wildlife Center.



W.Va. Wildlife from Eyewitness News



Bears, bobcats, birds and bunches of fun! Stacy Blanzy of Elkins thinks it was great. "It was really awesome! I loved it! It was really cool!" said Stacy.

Plus, lots of learning. "I learned how some of the animals eat and what they eat," said Rebecca Ruediger.

W.Va. Wildlife from Eyewitness News



The West Virginia Wildlife Center features 28 different species of animals along a scenic trail with simple and informative signs to guide you along the way.

You can really get close to the animals or the animals are close to you. They are not hiding in the woods.

W.Va. Wildlife from Eyewitness News



"That's what's unique about the center, these animals are probably as close as you'll come to seeing a wild animal up-close," said Rob Sylvester, a biologist for the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources.

Animals such as elk used to be bountiful in the state, but they are not here anymore. You can still see them at the Wildlife Center.

W.Va. Wildlife from Eyewitness News



Sylvester says the DNR has several goals for the Wildlife Center. "Our goal here is to introduce people, not just to species that are common, but also introduce people to those species that are uncommon or do not occur in our state, but once did."

Guided tours can be arranged, which makes this a great field trip opportunity for teachers.

W.Va. Wildlife from Eyewitness News



"It's been great! We've been studying West Virginia History and the first assignment was to do a report on West Virginia animals. So they have done the report and now they get to see the animals up-close and personal," said teacher Cheryl Jacko.

The Wildlife Center is more than just the exhibits. It is an excellent area for a family outing. They have picnic shelters and tables. And it is affordable for the family, with adults admission only $3.00 and kids $1.50. There is no cost in the winter.

While you are there, don't forget to see the state's number one weather forecaster, (next to Tony Mainolfi,) groundhog French Creek Freddie.

The West Virginia State Wildlife Center is located in French Creek in Upshur County.

If you would like more information call (304) 924-6211 or log on to the West Virginia State Wildlife Center web site at www.wvdnr.gov/Wildlife/WildlifeCenter.shtm





GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA'S WILDLIFE
Visit WV DNR



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