Board the ark

If the skies open up and it rains for 40 days and 40 nights, don’t head for Animal Ark. It’s not a large wooden boat, but rather a sanctuary for animals that do not have the skills to survive in the wild. The 38-acre wildlife refuge and nature center, open for the season beginning April 2, is home to many animals, including a desert tortoise, a snow leopard, wolves, three bear species and a big brown bat. Animal Ark also offers wildlife exhibits, educational displays and special events every Saturday night. During Wolf Howl nights on the Saturdays closest to full moons, you can learn about wolves and join a group howl. Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed on Mondays). Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and $4 for ages 3 to 12. For information and a calendar of events, visit www.animalark.org or call 970-3111.