Lions, Tigers, and Bears, Oh My! Maine’s DEW Haven Ready to Open Its Doors for the 2025 Season

Spring brings many wonderful changes to Maine.

The weather improves, the days get longer, the flowers begin to bloom, and at one popular Maine institution, the beasts are let loose.

Maine's "Zoo" Getting Ready to Open for the 2025 Season

The DEW Haven Rescue and Zoo has announced that it will officially open for the season on Saturday, May 10. The animal sanctuary will be open on weekends through June 17, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead to confirm there are no changes to the early-season schedule.

Located in Mount Vernon, DEW Haven describes itself as a "safe haven for our animals, and [a place for] promoting society's education regarding animal wellness, respect, and conservation."

While the term “zoo” is used, it’s not the kind of commercial zoo one might expect. DEW Haven began as a working farm and gradually transformed into a rescue and zoo. Today, it is home to over 200 different species of animals from around the world. These include domestic species like bobcats, bears, and turtles, as well as more exotic animals such as chimpanzees, tigers, and lions.

DEW Haven Was the Subject of a Popular Animal Planet Show

DEW Haven gained national attention when the sanctuary was featured on the Animal Planet show Yankee Jungle. The reality series provided an in-depth look at the work being done by the staff and interns at the safe haven and aired for two seasons.

Although DEW Haven is only open on weekends in the spring, the schedule will expand during the summer months, with expected hours from Tuesday to Sunday. In the fall, the zoo will return to a weekend-only schedule.

This family-friendly facility has a detailed website with answers to frequently asked questions, ticket information, and other helpful resources—including a fantastic gallery showcasing the sanctuary’s residents.

READ MORE: Maine’s 20 Most Visited Parks and Historical Sites in 2024

Here’s to another happy and healthy year for all those incredible animals.