We are happy to have established a partnership with the Green Bay Gamblers. This is a perfect opportunity to educate people about bats and the important role they play in the ecosystem. This program will foster public interest in bats and offer a chance to dispel many of the myths and misconceptions about these unique animals. The money given by the Green Bay Gamblers from the sale of the toy bats will be used for food and medical care for the 4000+ injured and orphaned wild animals that the Wildlife Sanctuary rehabilitation program admits yearly.

Winter at the Wildlife Sanctuary-- We Never Hibernate!

Winter is here, and snow does not slow us down at the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary! Being open everyday of the year gives you an unique opportunity to see the seasons at their best. The beauty of nature is seen in a new light as snow covers the trees and dusts the cages, giving a natural illumination. Most of the animals love playing in the snow. On any given winter day, you can see the otters or bobcats sliding and jumping in the drifts. Some of the critters are not big fans of the cold, like our cougar and golden eagle, so they have limited time outside. Some of the birds of prey are moved to their "winter migration" station. Birds that naturally migrate--turkey vultures, swainson hawks, and broadwinged hawks-- are moved to enclosed cages away from public viewing until spring returns again. If you love feeding the ducks and geese, winter is your time of year! As the natural food is covered, they rely on corn feeding by the general public. But do not worry-- if visitorship is down, we do have feeders in the back for the resident waterfowl to eat from!

Visiting the Wildlife Sanctuary in winter also means some great outdoor activities are available. Six miles of cross country ski trails are open daily from 8am to 4:30 pm-- and they are beautiful! You wind through the back trails, going past the wolves, deer, and through great natural habitats. Just be sure to bring your own skis! Check the website and Honker newsletter also for snowshoe hikes and great winter programs like an ice fishing workshop and Frosty Family Fun Night in February. Come out and visit the new waterfalls, go across the open boardwalk, bird watch, or just enjoy being outside in the crisp air. We also accept all orphaned and injured wildlife daily-- call us with any animal questions at (920) 391-3685.

Winter is a great time of year-- be sure to get out and enjoy it!
Lori Bankson, Senior Animal Keeper

Fly Away Home

It was a great morning at the Sanctuary today! We released two immature bald eagles back into the wild after spending months being rehabilitated by our dedicated staff and volunteers. Check out the short video of the release below.

The pair of sibling eagles had been under the care of the Sanctuary since June when they were found on the ground after falling from their nest near Calrsville, WI. Mike Neil of the Door County WDNR found the eagles and knew that in order for them to survive, they would need special care.

The eagles were ready to be released earlier this fall, but they became sick after contracting West Nile Virus. But, thankfully, a generous donor stepped forward and covered the cost of the additional care for the eagles.

These eagles have been through a lot and seeing them fly back into the wild was a great moment for us all this morning - but especially for the eagles.

The eagles are among more than 4,000 animals that the Sanctuary and its many volunteers help to rehabilitate and release back into the wild each year.

Halloween Event

16th Annual Halloween Event Coming Soon!

The Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary’s Annual Halloween Event is quickly approaching! The 16th annual event will be held on Saturday, October 17th beginning at 6:00 pm. The idea for this popular program came about years ago as a great family- friendly Halloween activity that is an alternative to the typical haunted house. No scary monsters, blood or gore here!

The focus of the event is on education and having fun while being entertained by a larger than life animal (volunteer dressed up in a costume). Our 25-30 volunteers range in age from 8-30. Each of them tries out for the particular animal character that they would like to portray. After receiving their part, they spend hours memorizing their animal script, working on their costume and interacting with each other. Many of the characters play off of each other and try to point out their character’s habits and the qualities that make them unique. Most of the characters are nocturnal animals (ie. Owl, opossum, raccoon, flying squirrel, bat, etc.) that are commonly found in Wisconsin and often times are misunderstood. All of this is done in an educational and many times humorous way.

Our event also takes place rain or shine because it is held inside the pumpkin lit, darkened Nature Center. You also don’t have to stand outside in a long line and wait for your chance to meet our animal friends. Groups of 15-20 people are led through the indoor hike every 20 minutes beginning at 6:00 pm and concluding at 8:20 pm. Each hike takes approximately 45 minutes. Kids are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes and each child will receive a treat bag after completing their hike. The fee is $3.00 per adult and $2.00 per child under 12. Pre-registration for a specific time slot is required. Many time slots fill up quickly. For more information or to pre-register please call (920) 391-3671 or check out pictures of previous year’s Halloween events on our website: http://www.baybeachwildlife.com/.