W.Va. Wildlife Center resumes regular hours, rates

The W.Va. Division of Natural Resources announces that the West Virginia Wildlife Center at French Creek has resumed regular admission rates and hours of operation.

The Wildlife Center features native and introduced animals and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some COVID-19 restrictions remain in place, according to Zack Brown, assistant chief of operations for the division’s Wildlife Resources Section.

The looping trail around the facility has been changed to one-way, for instance, and visitors are required to follow all social distancing guidelines.

The gift shop and snack bar are also now open, but the picnic pavilion remains closed.

“The Wildlife Center has plenty of open space, and folks can be assured we’re going the extra mile to make sure they can feel safe during their visit,” Brown said.

“With summer here, now’s a great time to get outside, enjoy some fresh air, and see West Virginia’s wildlife in a natural habitat with your family.”

Starting June 15 and continuing until Oct. 31, admission for adults age 16 and older is $4. Children ages 6-15 are admitted for $2, and kids five and younger get in for free.

Earlier this year, a New York zoo reported that a tiger contracted the COVID-19 virus, prompting the U.S. Department of Agriculture to issue guidelines that limit contact between the public and non-domestic cats at wildlife facilities, so visitors are advised that mountain lions and other large cats may not be visible at all times.

For more information about the wildlife center or for help planning your trip, call the DNR District 3 office at 304-924-6003.

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