Nestled
near the quiet community of Lamont, just a short drive east of Tallahassee, the
North Florida Wildlife Center (NFWC) stands as a sanctuary for rare and
endangered species from across the globe. Since its founding in 2019, this
501(c)(3) nonprofit has quickly become one of the region's most impactful
centers for conservation and environmental education.
The NFWC is not a traditional zoo. It is a specialized facility dedicated to
public educational outreach, propagation of rare species, and supporting efforts
to recover degraded ecosystems both locally and globally. While many of its
residents come from zoo networks or pet surrenders, others are "un-releasable"
animals that have suffered injuries in the wild. By partnering with
rehabilitation centers, the NFWC provides a permanent, enriching home for
animals that would otherwise be unable to survive on their own.
The center is home to over 60 species, ranging from local Florida fauna to
exotic animals from South America, Madagascar, and Australia. The undisputed
"star" of the facility is King Bumi, a giant anteater whose personality has made
him a favorite among social media followers and visitors alike. Other notable
residents include lemurs, kangaroos, sloths, and a diverse collection of birds,
including hornbills, turacos, and owls.
What sets the North Florida Wildlife Center apart is its focus on animal
encounters. These guided, hands-on sessions allow visitors to step inside the
enclosures (with staff supervision) to feed, photograph, and learn about the
animals up close. Whether it's feeling the coarse fur of an anteater or having a
lemur perch on your shoulder, these moments are designed to foster a deep,
personal connection to wildlife.
The center is typically open Tuesday through Sunday. But be sure to check
current hours and entry fees on their website using the link below. Guests can
also explore a peaceful nature trail that showcases the beauty of the North
Florida landscape. By visiting, guests directly fund the high-quality care,
specialized diets, and conservation initiatives that keep this vital sanctuary
thriving.
Activities & Facilities
Museum or Visitor Center
Zoo/animal displays
Short hiking trails