Exotic animals on display: Summerfield Farm and Zoo open one weekend a month

BELVIDERE – With stripes and spots, big ears and fur, for one weekend a month, Summerfield Farm and Zoo in Belvidere opens its doors to visitors.

This small zoo, belonging to Rick and Tammy Anderson, offers an opportunity to see unusual animals in something other than a large-city setting.

Down on the farm, the last public visiting days of the year will be Nov. 7 and 8. This is a special time at the zoo, which is welcoming a baby Patagonian cavy, one of the largest rodents in South America. They are relatives of guinea pigs, so don’t expect a large rat.

Specializing in exotic animals, Summerfield offers animal presentations, hayrides, a petting zoo, lunch stand, and gift shop.

There is an admission fee, with proceeds going to the upkeep and care of the animals. This not-for-profit organization has a goal of allowing its visitors to get close to the animals they’re visiting.

What guests will see for their money are zebras, wallabies, cougars, monkeys, arctic wolves, llamas, parrots, ring-tailed lemurs, camels, hedgehogs, bobcats, tortoises, armadillos and other species that require some explanation at first meeting. There are rain forest animals such as kinkajous; servals, African wild cats; and genets, cat-like animals with spotted coats, usually from Africa.

All the animals associated with the farm and zoo aren’t exotic, however. The farm is known in horse circles for its Arabian stallion, Georgio AF, and its mares and fillies.   Georgio is the father of 57 foals.

Along with Arabians, the farm also breeds champion fawn Great Danes.

Want more of the zoo? Then look into on-site parties, educational programs about animals, and renting reindeer and their “elves.”

Renters won’t have reindeer that shy away from people. These animals are tame and can be petted. They’re available for parades, live nativity scenes, Christmas tree lightings, and photo opportunities.

Other animals can also be brought to community festivals or to businesses. Inquiries are welcome.

But for those who want to see it all, just head to U.S. Bypass 20, go to Pearl Street Road, travel 2 miles south, continue straight on Flora Road, and follow the signs. An exotic world awaits.