California Wolf Center

The combination of education, conservation, and research at this center makes it a unique destination for those who want to learn more about wolves or who have a passion for these wild creatures. It is located about 50-miles east of San Diego. It opened in 1977 with the intention of educating the public about the area wildlife and ecology. The center is the home of a number of packs of gray wolves, including some Alaska grays and several packs of Mexican grays. The center meets its goals by " offering engaging educational presentations, participating in conservations programs, and hosting and funding research on both captive and free-ranging wolves." Years ago, wolves were plentiful throughout the United States but were hunted so much throughout the decades that they are found in only a few states. It is the center's belief that people who are educated about wolves will not feel threatened by them and will no longer have a desire to hunt them. The center's wolves are sometimes featured in educational programs, helping people understand the mysticism and importance of wolf packs. The California Wolf Center is a part of the Mexican Wolf Species Survival Plan, a bi-national effort for helping wild wolves to recover and grow in number. The Center is also the third largest breeding and host facility in the United States for Mexican gray wolves.