California: At Big Bear Lake, flashlight safaris are a real howl

Meet creatures of the night this fall when Big Bear Lake’s annual flashlight safari tours put the spotlight on the nocturnal animals at Big Bear Alpine Zoo.

The Saturday night tours, which begin Oct. 6, focus on the animals that come alive after dark, such as wolves, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes and foxes. Participants in the two-hour tours will get a chance to hear shrill howls fill the air and see eyes glow in the beams of flashlights.

“We invite Big Bear guests to take a walk on the wild side in the safety of Big Bear’s zoo,” said Debbie Richardson, the zoo’s curator. “They don’t have to worry about running across wild animals in their natural habitat, but can see them up close when our animals get energized and come to life. It’s a wild experience, for sure. ”

Flashlight Safari tours will take place at 6:30 p.m. Saturdays beginning Oct. 6 and continuing through Nov. 10. Participants need to be at the park by 6:15 p.m. for the tour. Bring a flashlight and wear warm clothing. Admission is $9 for adults and $6 for seniors and kids 3-10. Children younger than 3 are admitteed free.

Info: Big Bear Alpine Zoo, 43285 Goldmine Drive, Big Bear Lake, (909) 584-1299.