Wilderness Trail Zoo: Creating Wild Wonders

Total Michigan

Can a small zoo in Michigan redefine the zoo experience and make a global impact? In this episode of Total Michigan, host Cliff DuVernois sits down with Jeremiah Tietz, the passionate director of Wilderness Trails Zoo. They delve into the zoo's interactive initiatives, conservation efforts, and Jeremiah's unique journey that led him back to Michigan. Discover how this sanctuary near Frankenmuth is creating immersive experiences for its visitors while contributing to worldwide conservation efforts.

- Initiatives to Add More Public Interaction: Jeremiah emphasizes the zoo's focus on creating hands-on, memorable experiences for visitors, including a new rainforest building.

- Global Conservation Efforts: Wilderness Trails Zoo engages in global species survival plans and has participated in success stories of reintroducing endangered species into the wild.

- Jeremiah's Journey and Vision: From growing up with a passion for wildlife sparked at the Phoenix Zoo to becoming a Michigan-based director, Jeremiah aims to create a family-friendly destination that educates and inspires future generations.

Links:

Wilderness Trails Zoo Website: https://wildernesstrailszoo.org/

Address:

11721 Gera Rd, Birch Run, MI 48415

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Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction and New Initiatives

01:14 Meet Jeremiah Tietz

01:57 Wilderness Trail Zoo's Mission

03:22 Zoo's Size and Scope

03:59 Jeremiah's Background and Passion

06:22 Veterinary Medicine and Zoo Career

12:26 Conservation Efforts and Global Impact

15:02 Challenges and Human Impact

16:54 Returning to Wilderness Trail Zoo

18:47 Future Plans and New Additions

22:03 Reptile Rescue and Community Involvement

24:21 Collaborative Efforts and Animal Care

26:48 Visitor Experience and Goals

28:17 How to Get Involved