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Wild Lives & Wild Places
Written By: Mary Jane McCall | Issue: 2020/07 – July
If you’re wondering Where the Wild Things Are during this strange pandemic summer, well, it turns out they’re in Sapphire.
Sapphire Valley Resort’s 17th Annual Wildlife Mountain Days will be held on July 17 and 18 at the Sapphire Valley Resort.
This annual event promotes a better understanding of, and connection with, wildlife through a diverse mixture of children’s and adult programs featuring live animals, exceptional speakers, bird walks, hikes, exhibits and more.
This year’s event opens Friday morning, July 17, with a bird walk led by “birders” from the Highlands Plateau Audubon Society. There are also two hikes to area scenic locations and waterfalls led by experienced hike leaders Mike Kettles and Robin Lurie. Reservations are required (call (828) 743-7663), as group size is limited. These events are free.
The Friday afternoon program (3:30 to 4:30 P.M.) for youth groups, campers, and children will feature the very popular Rob Gudger with his wolves, explaining why they are “Our Most Misunderstood Animals.”
At 6:30 P.M., the silent auction exhibit will open at the Community Center, preceding a special evening presentation at 7:00 PM by Rob Gudger and his wolves. This will be followed by the main event, headlining Bill Lea with “The Wonder, Beauty and Magic of God’s Creation,” accompanied, of course, by his incredible photography.
Saturday morning at 10:30 A.M. features Snake Man Steve O’Neil and his collection of native reptiles, amphibians and other animals. Next up is Michael Skinner from the Balsam Mountain Trust with “Hunters of the Sky,” showcasing hawks, falcons, owls and eagles. The Saturday afternoon program brings the “North Georgia Zoo to You” with some unusual animals from the Australian Outback.
There is a $5 entry fee for adults for the Friday evening event and $8 for all day on Saturday. Children are admitted free.
Mountain Wildlife Days is directed by John Edwards and sponsored by the Sapphire Valley Resort, area merchants and friends of wildlife. Proceeds from the silent auction are used to fund the Mountain Wildlife Days Western North Carolina Wildlife Outreach.
For additional info, visit mountainwildlifedays.com or call the Sapphire Resort Community Center at (828) 743-7663.
