A BRIDGE CONNECTING HUMAN AND WILD LIFE

“We have so much to gain by being less human-centered.  It is a dangerous illusion to think our world and concerns are all-important. Nature is not a back drop for humanity  – it is from whence we spring, and it nurtures and sustains us whether we recognize it or not.” Susan B. Eirich, Ph. D., Executive Director, Earthfire Institute.

Nestled in the foothills of Grand Teton National Park, the Earthfire Institute is home to wildlife native to the Rocky Mountains who cannot survive in the wild. Our family includes wolves, grizzly and black bears, bison, lynx, mountain lions, foxes, bobcats, coyotes, badgers and other wondrous wildlife.  

The only facility of its kind in the country, Earthfire Institute is much more than a sanctuary. It is dedicated to protecting wildlife by creating a bridge between humans, and animals in the wild, via the rescued animals of Earthfire. Visitors and supporters have a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet a wild being on an entirely new level, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually, in the spectacular Wildlife Garden.

Interacting with a wild being in a natural setting; hearing about their lives;  about who they are as creatures; their personalities,  their quirks,  likes and dislikes,  gives an entirely different perspective on who these creature are.  Seeing them like this it makes us want to help them; and preserve their habitat. 

The Institute spearheads numerous programs and initiatives designed to promote a positive relationship between humans and wildlife, and to demonstrate how we can co-exist for the benefit of both. These include Animal Care, Conservation, Education, Wellness and Art, as well as Animal Stories that illuminate and delight.  

Established in 2000, Earthfire is named after a passionate mother wolf with a fire in her belly to protect all vulnerable creatures. It was founded in order to give an opportunity to the animals to speak for themselves and for their kind, and to have their voices included in the symphony of all living beings.

About the photographs on this web site. Photos shown throughout this web site are either the property of the Earthfire Institute or shown courtesy of different photographers. They may not be downloaded or used without written permission from the Earthfire Institute. For more information, click here.

Some of the animals featured on this page - Earthfire and her brother Red, Feather the Fox, Humble Bubble (bear) and Windwalker (cougar)