Wild Animal Park or Zoo?

[CapeCodDoug]

Mary, dgstan, Joel, Vince: thanks for the info! --- I'm still undecided, but Palm Desert is clocking in at 117F right now, so if heat is a factor Balboa Park might win out, even if its farther. But thanks for the heads up!

[Ancient Title]

Ah. It was so sad when Fraiser the lion died. I loved Lion Country as a kid.

Vince - if you really want to eat lunch with a lion, try the Shambala Preserve that Tippi Hedren runs.

http://www.shambala.org/

Lions, Tigers, and (no bears) Panters, oh my. I haven't been there yet, but I've heard it's pretty cool.

It's a little expensive (minimum $40 donation) but it is tax deductible. And everyone in your party must 18 or older.

One special weekend each month (and on other days for private groups or parties), The SHAMBALA PRESERVE opens its gates to the public for its series of exciting and informative "safaris" through the world of the big cats, all of whom are endangered or threatened species. Meet African lions, Bengal and Siberian tigers, black and spotted leopards, servals, a Jungle cat, mountain lions, and a Florida panther up close, and personal!

PLEASE REMEMBER: Our safaris fill up quickly, so please try to send in your reservation at least one month in advance.

Our guided tours last approximately three (3) hours and begin promptly at the hour indicated. Gates will open 30 minutes prior to the scheduled tour.

The tour culminates at the Shambala lake. You can bring your own picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch in a beautiful lakeside setting.

[Vince P]

Thanx Ancient,

I would love to take that tour...next time I am in LA, but I see you have to make reservations far in advance.

A few years ago, my wife "adopted" a Lion from the San Francisco Zoo for me on my birthday after we visited them. It was cool, I received pictures, up-to-date info, a portfolio and all this stuff about my "child."

Vince P