Niabi Zoo will look different when it opens on April 30, 2024, at 10 AM, for its 61st year, because of the damage suffered during the January snowstorm. The Niabi Zoo Foundation is partnering with Niabi Zoo to repair or replace the damaged areas of the zoo. The foundation has raised $12,000 in personal donations and $50,000 from Modern Woodman. The donation from Modern Woodman will support the reconstruction of the Bald Eagle Exhibit. Zoo staff worked more than 35 hours non-stop to move animals, clear snow, and secure damaged enclosures. The Niabi Zoo Foundation guarantees that 100% of your donation will go towards the recovery effort. “Your donation immediately supports this recovery. We appreciate your consideration in donating toward this effort.” The Forest Preserved and Niabi Zoo are holding a public forum on May 14, 2024, at 5:30 PM at Niabi Zoo. Stay up-to-date on Niabi Zoo here.
The Niabi Zoo Foundation was established in June 2020 to help support the zoo exhibits such as the White Rhino, African Painted Dogs, and Prairie Dog Town. Other support areas included Virtual Education, Spineless Wonders Graphics, Zoo Computer Server, and Aid to Ukraine Zoos. The next big goal is the Grizzly Bear. The Foundation held its first Zoopocalypse 5k in October 2023. We hope to see you this October for another run through the Zoo. Funds for this event are specific to the Grizzly Bear Exhibit.
“Working with the Niabi Zoo staff for the last four years has been incredible. Their knowledge, compassion, dedication to the animals, conservation, and education are profound. They all hold award-winning accomplishments, and their service and knowledge span the world. This inclusive education benefits Niabi Zoo and our community. Please consider meeting them someday for an inspirational experience.” Krisan Steiger, Chair, Niabi Zoo Foundation.