The TRAVELER'S JOURNAL: July twenty-seventh, on safari in Ohio.

Oh, give me a home where white rhinos roam, and the giraffe and zebra play, where often is heard a hartebeest herd, and eland romp in the hay. No, it's not an African version of Home on the Range, but an ode to a 10,000 acre savannah situated in southeastern Ohio.

The "Wilds" is a unique animal preserve a few miles south of Interstate 70, halfway between Wheeling and Columbus. Opened to the public in 1994, the "Wilds" is on land that was re- claimed from surface mining operations and donated by the local electric company. Now run by a non-profit conservation group working to preserve endangered species, it's the largest project of its kind in the country.

The rolling, grassy plains have been divided into three large sections, where endangered species from Africa, Asia and North America all do what comes naturally, or as naturally as they're inclined in this predator-free environment. In addition to the aforementioned animals, there are herds of oryx, onager, goral and kob, along with zebra, Bactrian camel, Pere David's deer and sable antelope.

From May through October, the "Wilds" is also open for humans. Park buses convey visitors on guided tours to various vantage points, where they can get out and watch the animals interact. A walking trail provides access to a natural wetlands portion of the preserve, with numerous bird- watching opportunities. There's a visitors education center and restaurant.

The "Wilds" of Ohio: an innovative reclamation undertaking and as close as most of us will ever get to a Cuvier's gazelle.

FMI For information on the "Wilds" call 740-638-5030 or visit www.thewilds.org

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