Written and Photos by Anna Millar

Concealed by the winding roads of Pedro, Ohio, is Barker Farm Zoo, an exotic oasis meant to share experiences with animals and wildlife education throughout the state. Kate Barker and her husband began the farm in 2016 with Daniel, their dromedary camel and first exotic addition. Since then, Barker has expanded her business to include a sloth, kangaroo, African porcupine, Capuchin monkey and boa constrictor, among other curious creatures. With an array of nonnative species, Barker’s focus and passion centers around providing education and viewing possibilities that may otherwise be impossible for children in Ohio.   

Elmo the sloth, a permanent resident of Barker Farms, beelines toward any visitors as they make their way in. He only gets his favorite snack, rose petals, during scheduled “sloth encounters” hosted by Barker Farms. Only one of these encounters is available each day, making his snacks more exciting.   
Daniel, a dromedary camel, is eager to meet anyone walking by and is used to the hustle, as he was Kate Barker’s first exotic animal.   
Rufus, a capuchin monkey, clings to Barker after showcasing his excitement to see her through a huge hug around her neck. He continues watching intently as the shutter clicks repeatedly, unsure who his visitors are.  

In a rare moment of singular focus Clyde peers into the lens with both eyes; a feat which is rare given chameleons’ natural ability to move each eye individually.  

Not everyone can take part in owning exotic animals; Barker had to obtain licensing from both the USDA and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to begin her business.

Getting licensed by the USDA requires a multistep process:

  1. Submitting an application
  2. Finding in state veterinary care for animals
  3. Passing a pre-licensing inspection of the facilities
  4. Obtaining the animals and passing routine surprise inspections

Getting licensed by the ODNR requires applying on its website within 10 days of obtaining the qualifying animal. Owners must have obtained the animal through a legal source – catching wild pets is prohibited.