The wild animals I photograph are often as memorable for the places I photograph them (natural habitats with incredible scenery) as the animals themselves. 

But at the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Colorado, an hour northeast of Denver, the animals are memorable for how they got there. Home to hundreds of rescued lions, tigers, bears, wolves, and other large carnivores, the sanctuary provides lifelong care for animals that have been rescued from situations ranging from roadside zoos and illegal ownership to neglect and abuse. Rather than serving as a zoo, its mission is to give these animals the space, safety, and peace they deserve for the rest of their lives.

One of the most unique parts of the experience is the elevated walkway that stretches for more than a mile above the habitat (yet only covers a small portion of the sanctuary). Instead of viewing the animals through fences, you’re able to observe them from above as they roam, rest, play, and simply behave like wild animals. At zoos, animals can be stressed by having you at ground level with them (you could be a threat), whereas since these animals don’t have any predators or threats in nature from the sky, they are not stressed by people walking above, allowing them to behave more naturally. It makes for a very different experience for both animals and visitors alike.

As much as I enjoyed making photographs during our visits, it’s important to have an even greater appreciation for the sanctuary’s work. Every animal here has a story, and while many of those stories began under difficult circumstances, it’s encouraging to see the lives they’ve been given today.

All photos from multiple visits during July, 2025, December, 2025, & July, 2026. 

Sign up for my newsletter and never miss a post. Learn more and sign up here.