Tehachapi's Online Community News & Entertainment Guide

Back to normal at Windswept

Windswept Ranch

Did you ever have one of those dreams where you wake up and you are not sure if you were dreaming? I have been feeling this way since the beginning of COVID.

Here at the ranch things seem normal. Our routine hasn't changed. We work hard to make sure the animals get the best care we can give them. But it has felt like something has been missing, and you know what? It has.

With COVID restrictions and all the craziness of this world, we have missed you. The animals have missed you.

And that is why we are so excited to be opening on our regular schedule of every Saturday from the first Saturday in April through the last Saturday in October. Like everyone else, we want to get back to normal. More importantly, we want the animals to have those special days where they feel like the center of attention. We want them full of carrots and happy.

You are key to that.

Most of your old friends are still here. Malachi will be waiting at the gate with the other camels to exchange a kiss for a carrot. Zakari has become much more social and will be happy to take a carrot from you. Cupid has grown and you will not believe how beautiful he is getting. And, as always, the mini horses and donkeys are pacing, waiting for you to get here.

There are some new faces. We have lambs that will steal your heart. Mary, our baby camel is just beginning to learn how special you all are. And Zia, our 5-month-old zebra, is excited to meet you.

We are all excited and know you will be when you see the new murals done by our very talented volunteers. We have done some rehab and are working on new enclosures. So come on. Wake up and plan on being here April 2 when we open and get back to normal. Spend some time with old friends and make some new friends. We really miss you.

Directions: From Tehachapi take Highline Road east to Tehachapi Willow Springs Road, turn right and go 11-miles to the "OPEN" banner and turn right up the dirt road. Any questions, call (661) 809-3965.