Zoo to Temporarily Close to the Public
Philadelphia Zoo to Temporarily Close to the Public
(Philadelphia, PA) March 16, 2020—Philadelphia Zoo announced today, because of the rapidly changing circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 situation in our city and region, it will temporarily close to the public beginning Tuesday, March 17th.
“Closing to the public, we feel is the best decision for our guests, our staff, our animals and the broader community,” says Vikram H. Dewan, the Zoo’s Chief Executive Officer. “Protecting all of our stakeholders and slowing the spread of COVID-19 takes priority. Although we are unsure at this time how long our short-term closure will be in effect, we expect to maintain this status until regional containment of the virus has been achieved,” says Dewan.
Essential staff including animal keepers, veterinarians, and public safety officers will continue to provide uninterrupted, exceptional care for the animals onsite under modified circumstances. Additionally, online Zoo fans can stay connected by visiting the Zoo’s website and social media platforms to get updates as well as view awesome photos and videos.
Zoo officials will continue to assess the situation in real time and follow the recommendations of the Office of Emergency Management, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and other national, state and local health agencies.
For daily updates and awesome photos and videos, Zoo fans can stay connected by visiting www.PhiladelphiaZoo.org or check out the Zoo’s social platforms including Facebook: PhiladelphiaZoo; Instagram: @philadelphiazoo; Twitter: @phillyzoo.
ABOUT PHILADELPHIA ZOO:
Animals are on the move like never before at America’s first zoo with the creation of Zoo360, a first-in-the-world animal trail and exploration system that encourage our most majestic creatures to travel above and across visitor pathways. Philadelphia Zoo, America’s first Zoo, is situated on 42-acres and is home to more than 1,300 rare and endangered animals, including new baby western lowland gorillas, giraffes, hippos, white rhino, zebras, red pandas, African lions and more. Experience Zoo360, a first-in-the-world system of see-through mesh trails passing through treetops, crossing over pathways and connecting habitats, giving animals like amazing big cats, majestic primates and marvelous meerkats the opportunities to travel and explore. Visit award-winning exhibits like Key Bank Big Cat Falls, PECO Primate Reserve, McNeil Avian Center and KidZooU, a wildlife academy that offers dynamic displays, rare breeds and hands-on experiences. For more information visit www.PhiladelphiaZoo.org.