The zoo is always working toward improvements for animals, visitors, and sustainability.
River’s Edge: Primate Trails & Otter Habitat
Construction is progressing smoothly. We’re expanding habitats in the North End and demolishing outdated ones. These improvements are key as we prepare for River’s Edge. The netting company has started working on the trail system and monkey habitat mesh. We are also finalizing proposals for the last two primate habitats, and things are looking promising. If you look through the green fences, you’ll notice scaffolding has been erected for the netting installation and netting is going in for the “trails.” Irrigation fittings are underway, and the interpretive signage elements are progressing smoothly. We are collaborating on the acquisition of the otters.
Goat Encounters
The exhibit is open and guests can meet the goats through the fence. A new handwashing station is being installed. In yard encounters will begin shortly, keep an eye out for updates on our website and social media.
Chinese Alligator Exhibit
The habitat is nearing completion. The front railing is almost finished, and we are installing the remaining fencing and ensuring the water system is operational. The building has been painted. The alligators are not here yet and there is not an announced completion date.
Rain Garden
The project is halfway complete, with all rainwater tanks installed and underground piping finished. The next phase will involve landscaping, led by our contractor.
Monkey Row
We’re currently focused on removing existing landscapes to make room for the new habitats. Four of the original vacant habitats have already been removed, with plans to take down three more, totaling seven. Significant modifications are underway for the Spider Monkey and Gibbon habitats, with continued relocation and enhancements into the new year.
Pathways Project
The project is back out for bidding. We’re revisiting construction bids and plan to begin work on the pathways in the spring.
Wall Project
The telephone pole fence facing First Street is being replaced. The design is complete, and we’re awaiting approval from Caltrans before it goes out for bid.
Empty Area Across from Camels/Anteater/Ocelot
We are planning to update the landscape around the perimeter to match the beautiful new landscaping near the ocelot.
New Education and Community Building
Design is finished and the building is looking great. The project is proceeding through plan check with the City in order to solicit construction proposals in 2025.