STAR Eco Station

Environmental science museum and rescue center in Culver City that houses more than 200 exotic animals confiscated by wildlife authorities, from parrots and pythons to tortoises. Guided public tours start every hour on weekends from 10 am to 4 pm, and volunteers aged 14 and up commit to a weekly two-hour shift for at least three months.

Sanctuaries are homes for rescued animals, not attractions. Most run on volunteers and donations, so check the website for visiting days and what they need before you go.

• curated
• wildlife
• tours
• volunteering
• families
• education