Board Member, past president, long-time volunteer Renee Runkle (R) makes a point while talking with visitors at Black Pine Animal Sanctuary. Photo provided.

ALBION — Imagine waking up to the sounds of the lions roaring, birds calling and wolves howling.

That’s the opportunity that awaits those who sign up for the annual Roar ‘n’ Snore at Black Pine scheduled this year for Saturday, Sept. 14.

The family-oriented event has been going on for more than 10 years. Participants are encouraged to pack up a tent, sleeping bags, cooler and flashlight and join the sanctuary for a night of camping at the facility west of Albion.

Each site can accommodate up to two tents and a maximum of six people.  Dinner and breakfast are provided along with a movie after dark, sanctuary tours, a campfire and other activities.  

Roar ‘n’ Snore begins Saturday at 5:30 p.m. and concludes the next morning at 9:00 am. Space is limited and reservations are required.  Cost is just $75.00 per site, plus $8.00 per individual.  To make reservations, visit www.bpsanctuary.org or call 260-636-7383.

Professional Animal Retirement Center (PARC), Inc., known locally as Black Pine Animal Sanctuary was established in 2000 to provide refuge to displaced, captive-raised exotic animals for the rest of their lives and to educate people about responsible animal care and conservation. 

The sanctuary is home to nearly 100 displaced, captive-raised exotic animals.  A variety of educational programs are offered throughout the year to enhance people’s knowledge of exotic and endangered species, to encourage responsible captive care and behavior around potentially dangerous animals, and to protect public safety. Nearly 60 species of animals reside at the sanctuary. Current occupants include big and small cats, canines, bears, primates, birds, reptiles, and more, representing over 50 species.