The year 2012 marks a significant milestone for the Chattanooga Zoo as it celebrates 75 years of being “the best little zoo in America.” To commemorate 75 years and to say “thank you” to the community, the zoo will be hosting “75 Days of Fun” beginning April 3. The event will include activities and events in preparation for a 75th Anniversary Grand Celebration set for June 16.
“The Chattanooga Zoo is pleased to celebrate its 75th year as a landmark education, conservation and rehabilitation institution within the community,” said CEO Darde Long. “In honor of this momentous year, we will be hosting numerous education, entertainment and enrichment opportunities for the local community to thank them for their continued support.”
Guests will have the opportunity to go on photo safaris led by a professional photographer, get up close and personal with some of their favorite animals and zookeepers, attend a variety of conservation lecture series and more. All activities will be included in the price of admission. Guests can check the Chattanooga Zoo’s Web site or Facebook Page for up-to-date information on each day’s activity.
As an added bonus, all visitors 75 years of age or older will be allowed into the Zoo for free any time during the year. “We figured if we were celebrating the Zoo’s 75th birthday, it is only fair that we celebrate everyone 75 years young,” said Long.
While the Zoo is turning 75, old age is also creeping up on some of its inhabitants. Long noted that they have a handful of species that are living well past their average life span, placing them in a geriatric classification.
The Zoo’s Water monitor “Suzie Q,” a lizard species with an average life span of 20 years, will turn 23 this year. “Butch” a Red panda with an average life span of eight to 10 years, will turn 17-years-old. And “Blondie.” the zoo’s Albino Boa constrictor, will turn 25.
One of the most significant, however, is “Jack,” one of the Zoo’s Spider monkeys. The species has an average life span of 20 years; this year, Jack will turn 37-years-old.
The Chattanooga Zoo is taking the necessary steps to modify each animal’s care as they age. These modifications include food and diet, more frequent blood work, minimizing the use of sedative procedures, modifying their habitats, and a closer observation overall by keeper and veterinary staff.
“The fact that so many of our animals are as old as they are is a tribute and testament the quality of care our ... keepers provide,” said Long. “These animals are our family; therefore, we treat them much like you would treat a grandmother or grandfather – with respect, compassion and lots of attention and love.”
The 13-acre Chattanooga Zoo, historically referred to as the Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park, is accredited by the national Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day.For more information, visit www.chattzoo.org.