Nature Park

Jonathan Kraft, an animal behaviorist, established Keepers of the Wild as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal sanctuary in 1995 (click here to read the full story). The nature park and wildlife sanctuary is currently located on 175 acres in Valentine, Arizona on historic Route 66.

 

Jonathan has worked with local, state, national, and international law enforcement and animal welfare agencies to assist with rescues, rehabilitation, and providing a life-long home to wild and exotic animals.

 

Jonathan’s high standards of animal care have earned numerous commendations and awards from organizations, including the Nevada Wildlife Federation, the S.P.C.A, the Humane Society, and Arizona’s Attorney’s and Sheriff’s Associations.

 

Jonathan has starred in movies and has been featured in several local, national, and international educational film projects, documentaries, news broadcasts, articles, and magazines. Highly regarded for his expertise with animals, Jonathan has served as an expert witness in court proceedings against animal abusers, worked as an independent consultant to other sanctuaries, and is a highly sought-after presenter for special speaking engagements. 

Raised in Arizona, Lara Kraft is a lifelong wildlife enthusiast and passionate advocate for animals, with a strong affinity for nature-inspired photography.

 

In 2017, Lara joined Keepers of the Wild and quickly developed a deep love for the sanctuary's mission and its inhabitants. Her commitment and diligence resulted in her promotion to media director and vice president by 2019, eventually leading to her election as board chairwoman. In 2024, Lara became co-executive director of the sanctuary.

 

Through her efforts, Lara aims to raise awareness about animal welfare and ecological challenges while working towards creating an environment where humans, animals, and nature can peacefully coexist—an essential vision she hopes her young daughter will inherit. Merging her passions for nature and wildlife protection, education, and advocacy, Lara is a fervent supporter of all living creatures' well-being.

 

With extensive experience in healthcare management and coordination, along with educational program development and grant supervision, Kraft brings a unique skill set that enriches her present positions at Keepers of the Wild.

Sparky grew up in Idaho and was always in love with the outdoors and its inhabitants.

 

Following the love of his life (wife Carrie, together over 30 years) to Arizona, he adjusted to his new habitat.

 

As he learned about Keepers of the Wild, he was inspired to join the team that loves, cares for, and protects nature's precious animals. In November of 2020, he acted on his inspiration and became the full-time Gift Shop Host, much to KOTW's staff and guests' delight; his nickname makes sense the moment you meet him!

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Sparky would like to remind you that every purchase in the gift shop helps support the residents of our sanctuary and, as Sparky likes to say, “The animals thank you!”