News Archives | Page 2 of 11 | Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

First-Time Camper’s Guide: Essentials for a Fun Trip

Planning your first camping trip is exciting, but forgetting a few crucial items is easy. Whether you’re setting up in a state park, at a private campground, or exploring the great outdoors, having the right gear will make all the difference between a stressful trip and a relaxing adventure. Sleeping Essentials A good night’s rest […]

September 23, 2025 View Article

From the Brink: What Florida Panthers Teach Us About Big Cat Conservation

Imagine an entire species dwindling to just a few dozen individuals, their future hanging in the balance of whether humans would step in or stand aside. That was the reality for the Florida panther in the 1990s, when fewer than 30 remained in the wild. This species defies the odds, being on the brink of […]

September 17, 2025 View Article

Reflecting on National Wildlife Day 2025

Last week, people worldwide celebrated National Wildlife Day on September 4th—dedicated to honoring our planet’s rich biodiversity and the extraordinary individuals who devote their lives to protecting it. Established in memory of the late Steve Irwin, this day serves as a reminder of his enduring legacy: a fearless passion for wildlife and an unwavering commitment […]

September 10, 2025 View Article

Your Guide to Stargazing in the Ozark Mountains

September in Northwest Arkansas is stargazing season at its finest. Crisp evenings, low humidity, and the absence of heavy summer haze create clear, dark skies that make the constellations pop. The Ozark Mountains are home to several prime locations for night-sky viewing: Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag) – By day, one of the state’s most […]

September 3, 2025 View Article

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Eureka Springs This Fall

In the fall, Eureka Springs comes alive with rich seasonal color as the Ozark Mountains shift into brilliant shades of scarlet, amber, and gold. The crisp mountain air invites long walks through winding streets, scenic overlooks, and forested trails that showcase the region’s dramatic autumn beauty. Just outside town, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge offers a […]

August 22, 2025 View Article

Meet the Local Wildlife: A Guide to Animals Native to the Ozarks

The Ozark Mountains are a haven for nature lovers, offering lush forests, sparkling rivers, and an impressive diversity of wildlife. Whether you’re hiking a quiet trail, kayaking a winding creek, or enjoying a scenic overlook, there’s a good chance you’ll encounter some of the region’s fascinating animal residents. The Ozark region is home to bobcats, […]

August 19, 2025 View Article

The Hidden Costs of Safari Parks: Why Accreditation Matters

For many Americans, visiting a safari park is a thrilling way to experience the wonder of exotic animals—right here in the United States. These parks offer a taste of the wild without the need for a passport, allowing guests to see incredible, rare, and endangered species like lions, tigers, and giraffes up close. But not […]

August 13, 2025 View Article

The Catastrophic Toll of the Exotic Pet Trade on Ecosystems

The exotic pet trade is a devastating global industry that drives biodiversity loss, fuels animal suffering, and disrupts ecosystems. At the heart of this crisis are wild cats—like African servals, tigers, and caracals—who are trafficked for profit and novelty, with little regard for their welfare or the environmental consequences. In their native habitats, demand for […]

August 7, 2025 View Article

The First 48: What Happens Right After Rescue

Every rescue is different, but the first 48 hours follow a focused, compassionate process guided by each animal’s needs. When the transport trailer arrives back at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR), the time of day determines our immediate steps. Thanks to our Curator’s thoughtful habitat design—including eight feet of space between enclosures and carefully positioned […]

August 6, 2025 View Article

The Hidden Crisis Behind “Cute Cubs”

It starts with a photo. A cub cradled in someone’s lap, eyes full of curiosity, paws oversized, framed in smiles. But what’s missing from the picture is what happens next. That same cub—pulled from its mother far too soon—may never walk properly. This wild cat may live with pain for the rest of its life, […]

July 30, 2025 View Article