The zoo will close early on Friday, August 9, 2024, to accommodate setup for Wild After Hours: Corks for Conservation (18+). The last entry into the grounds will be at 3:00 p.m. and the grounds will begin to be cleared at 4:00 p.m. Thank you for understanding.
Indoor Gorilla Habitat: From July 2 until approximately the end of the month, the western lowland gorilla troop will not be viewable in their indoor African Rainforest habitat while work is done on the viewing windows. The troop will be viewable in their outdoor habitat throughout the project (weather and animal participation permitting). The rest of the African Rainforest building will remain open and accessible throughout the project. Thank you for your understanding.
African Savannah Yard: Hartmann’s mountain zebras and ostriches will be off-view until the end of the year while we complete exciting upgrades in the African Savannah Yard, including the construction of a new Savannah Barn for the animals. Our giraffe tower will continue to be viewable throughout the project. Thank you for your understanding.
Bite-Sized
We’re saddened to share the recent unexpected passing of beloved program animal ‘Cornelius’ the corn snake on March 24th, 2023.
The life expectancy for wild corn snakes is six to eight years and 10 to 15 years in human care. At over nine years of age, Cornelius was considered a geriatric reptile. Over the past couple of years, he had some gastrointestinal issues which were medically managed. His necropsy revealed chronic degenerative kidney disease and chronic mild gastrointestinal changes.
Cornelius arrived here at the zoo in 2018 and was an all-star animal ambassador who greatly impacted wildlife education! As one of a few animal residents capable of being handled, he helped our Conservation Education team educate thousands of students about the proper care and handling of snakes, along with the valuable role they play in the natural world. He was one of a kind and will be missed by all.
Corn snake ‘Cornelius’
