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![]() In the Wild at the DeYoung Family Zoo Published on 7/12/2007 The DeYoung Family Zoo in Wallace, MI has been around since the 1980's. I first heard about the zoo probably 5 years ago and quickly realized that this was no normal zoo. Ingrid and I like zoos. I know some people don't like seeing animals in cages. My own statistic is that 99% of animals in zoos are so well taken care of to the point that they're pampered, and yes, perhaps even loved. Which is the case at the DeYoung Family Zoo. Ten minutes after arriving at the zoo, it is apparent that owner Bud DeYoung loves his animals. The DeYoung family has created an experience that glows with Upper Peninsulan culture. It is situated on 40 acres of land with dirt paths winding to the various exhibits. The exhibits don't have expensive thick glass walls, but a dual-perimeter chain link fence. It seems more fitting for our region. If they have new arrivals, the staff will usually take them out so visitors can hold them. The zoo definitely has a different feel from other zoos...like the DeYoung's just have a bunch of wild animals in their backyard. The zoo is open year-round. Get directions to their zoo from Google! Check out their website for more information. |
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