There’s a relatively new zoo in Howell that’s actually much better than a zoo, because you can actually feed and pet some of the animals.
And we’re not talking just sheep and goats, either. We’re talking kangaroos, zebras, camels, a tortoise and more.
It’s called the Triple Diamonds Alpaca Ranch and it’s located at 3275 E. Schafer Road in Marion Township, just south of Howell.
It’s been an alpaca farm for years, but they recently expanded the operation to make it into a small zoo. And if you, your kids, or grandkids love animals, it’s the coolest damn place you’ve ever seen.
They have a nice variety of animals here, most of which you can feed, pet, or both. In addition to the alpacas, they also have kangaroos, zebras, camels, goats, rabbits, sheep, peacocks, emus, and an exotic South African mammal called a kinkajou, a relative to the raccoon. And a bunch more.
And the coolest thing – by far – is that you can feed and pet so many of them.
They have three friendly kangaroos on site, and this is one of the only places in Michigan where you can actually go inside the pen and feed and pet them.
In Livingston County? Who knew!
The camels are also very cool (and friendly). You can feed and pet them, and if they REALLY like you, they’ll give you a kiss.
You can make a reservation to visit the Triple Diamonds Alpaca Ranch, and tickets are very reasonably priced ($16.50 per person; kids 2 and under are free).
Along with Carousel Acres in Greek Oak Township (which has a bunch of cool animals, including a kangaroo, a kookaburra, and a zonkey), and the venerable Howell Nature Center, Livingston County has become an animal lover’s paradise.
If you seek a pleasant kangaroo, look about you!
