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Chattanooga Zoo
The Chattanooga Zoo is a haven for animal lovers. As a non-profit organization, the zoo relies on the community to keep on operating. Over the years of its existence, the zoo has provided a habitat and cared for the animals, educated families and children annually, and improved facilities. Located in Chattanooga, this zoo is relatively small, but it houses over 500 animals from approximately 200 species. The zoo is committed to conservation, and you can find several endangered species, including Komodo dragons, hellbenders, blue bellied roller, cape, and crested porcupine, blue duiker, bushmaster, and many more. Read on below for more about Chattanooga Zoo.
What the Chattanooga Zoo Offers
As mentioned above, the zoo houses over 500 animals. The majority of this population is endangered. The zoo engages the community and inspires it towards conservation and preservation of the wildlife by allowing the public to make “meaningful connections” with the animals. In the zoo, you will be up-close with the animals. So much, you can notice the most subtle behaviors. Being in such an intimate environment can be both exciting and inspiring. Best of all, the zoo is stroller and wheelchair friendly, and you can come around with your kids.
Notable Conservation Programs
The commitment to conservation is deeply ingrained in the core values and mission of the zoo. Through its unwavering dedication, the zoo actively supports numerous conservation projects, both on a local and global scale. These initiatives aim to protect and preserve endangered species, restore habitats, and raise awareness about environmental issues. With its extensive range of projects, the zoo stands at the forefront of conservation efforts in the Chattanooga area. By promoting sustainability and actively engaging in conservation work, the zoo plays a vital role in safeguarding biodiversity and inspiring visitors to become stewards of the natural world.
Species Survival Plan
The Chattanooga Zoo is deeply committed to the preservation of endangered animal species through its active participation in the Species Survival Plan (SSP). This crucial initiative entails a comprehensive population conservation and management plan that aims to protect and restore at-risk species. The zoo currently oversees an impressive array of 46 distinct programs under the SSP, each dedicated to the preservation and welfare of different endangered species. By engaging in these initiatives, the Chattanooga Zoo plays a vital role in safeguarding biodiversity and ensuring a brighter future for these remarkable animals.
Saving Animals from Extinction (SAFE)
This program serves as a vital initiative within the aquarium and zoo community, dedicated to championing conservation efforts and safeguarding endangered wildlife species. By fostering collaboration between stakeholders and scientists, the program facilitates strategic planning, threat identification, resource allocation, and public engagement. Its overarching objective is to ensure the preservation and protection of endangered species. Through this unified approach, the program strives to inspire collective action and generate widespread awareness, leading to impactful measures for the long-term survival of vulnerable wildlife populations.
Hellbender Conservation Programs
The largest species of Salamander in the USA is the hellbender. Together with Lee University, the Chattanooga Zoo is surveying the Hellbender population. Through this program, there is hope that the endangered species can be bred successfully and the species saved from extinction. Through this process, the public will be allowed to view the hellbenders and learn more about them.
Is the Zoo Worth Visiting?
Yes. The zoo is worth visiting. While it is small in area, the variety of animals in the park is worth exploring. The zoo is so amazing. It is commonly referred to as “the best little zoo in America. “It is suitable for the entire family and is wheelchair-friendly. Best of all, the prices are affordable. For just $9.95 for children and $12.95 for an adult, you can enjoy the animals in the zoo. It remains open from 9 am to 5 pm every day except on holidays such as New Year, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. There is a playground just outside the zoo where your children can play and relax and free parking.
Address: 301 N Holtzclaw Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404
After an exciting day at the Zoo, you should take in the sights while dining from the deck of the Southern Belle River Boat! Additionally, if you’ve recently relocated and require a shed, be sure to explore the excellent options provided by Scenic City Sheds.
