Central Illinois zoos are bursting with new animal arrivals and exciting events this summer. Miller Park Zoo, Wildlife Prairie Park, and Peoria Zoo have lots to offer for families and animal lovers.
Wildlife Prairie Park is bustling with activity. “We have 7 elk calves and 13 baby bison now,” said Anna Lynn, an Animal Curator at the park. Over the past year, they’ve added wolves, a cougar, and bears.
Peoria Zoo recently welcomed a new mandrill baby named April. “April is with her mom, dad, and an extended aunt,” said Max Lakes, the new Director of Peoria Zoo. “Her first birthday is on August 19, and we plan to have a birthday party for her.”
Miller Park Zoo has a new Cotton-Top Tamarin. “We hope to bring in a new male pudu for our female in the South American exhibit,” said Rose Johnson, a Rainforest Keeper at the zoo. “Earlier this spring, a Cotton-Top Tamarin baby was born, and it’s a female.”
The zoos have a full schedule of events this summer. Peoria Zoo’s events include BIG BUGS!, World Snake Day, Pokémon Day, World Tiger Day, World Lion Day, Day of the Cotton-Top Tamarin, The Wonderful World of Wizardry, and a Murder Mystery party.
Wildlife Prairie Park’s events include Wild Nights, Volunteer Work Day, Guided Hikes, a Survival Skills Class, Guided Hike with a Naturalist, Annual Gala, Kickapoo Creek Festival, Kayaking Tour, and Pioneer Day.
Miller Park Zoo’s events include Member’s Night at the Zoo, FlexZOObility Yoga Class, Child Safety & School Supplies Drive for BHS, Twilight Mini Golf, and Senior Tours.
Also Read:
- Historic First: Koalas at Brookfield Zoo Chicago After 90 Years
- Title: Rockford Animal Shelters Struggle with Overflow of Cats
These events and new animal arrivals make Central Illinois zoos perfect for summer fun and learning.
