Abilene Zoo: Setting Records on 50th Anniversary

ABILENE, TX - The Abilene Zoo is celebrating 50 years of bringing children and families the opportunity to explore and learn about amazing animals that currently call the zoo their home, said a recent press release.

According to the release, this has been a record setting year for the zoo; over 249,600 guests visited during the 2016 fiscal year. This is approximately 33,000 more visitors than last year.

The zoo is home to over 1,000 animals of 270 species from around the world. It's also home to a wild bird rehabilitation program that has released nearly 400 native birds who were treated.

Overall, the zoo contributes its increasing success with the grand opening of the Giraffe Safari along with the celebrations held to commemorate its anniversary.

One of the most popular activities this year has been the Quarters for Conservation initiative, which brought in 25 cents for every gate admission. The visitors had the opportunity to vote for the animals they wanted to help the most.

The money collected will go to benefit Texas programs dedicated to helping conserve and protect endangered species.

In first place were the Ocelots and Friends of the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge in South Texas, a group dedicated to preserving their habitat. The Turtle Survival Alliance will be receiving a $5,000 check, and the Friends of the Attwater’s Prairie Chickens will receive $2,500.

Presently, the zoo has added three animals for the visitors to choose and help preserve. Visitors this season will have the opportunity to help protect the African vultures, rhinoceros or lions.

Close to 53 percent of the visitors come from cities throughout the state. More families are also joining the community, with an increase of almost 2,500 families this year. Many of the new members are from neighboring cities like Midland and San Angelo, said the press release.