The Houston Zoo, a beloved institution in the heart of Texas, has faced several incidents related to animal escapes and vandalism in recent years. As a zoo touring enthusiast, it’s crucial to stay informed about these events and the measures taken by the zoo to ensure the safety of both guests and animals.
Recent Incidents at the Houston Zoo
Animal Escapes
- 2018: A 3-year-old jaguar named Valerio escaped from its enclosure and killed nine animals, including three foxes, five alpacas, and an emu. Fortunately, the jaguar was not euthanized.
- 2018: A chimpanzee smashed an interior panel of glass at the Houston Zoo, leading to the evacuation of the chimpanzee habitat. No guests or animals were harmed in this incident.
- 2007: A male eclectus parrot being used in a Houston Zoo video escaped after getting spooked by a camera. The parrot was later recovered.
Vandalism and Animal Theft
- 2023: A four-inch hole was cut in the mesh of the brown pelican habitat at the Children’s Zoo, suspected to be an act of vandalism. No animals escaped or were harmed.
- 2018: There were no reported incidents of vandalism or animal theft at the Houston Zoo.
Measures Taken by the Houston Zoo
The Houston Zoo has implemented several measures to prevent animal escapes and address incidents of vandalism and animal theft.
Security Protocols
The zoo has established swift and accurate safety protocols to ensure the safety of both guests and animals. For example, in the 2018 chimpanzee incident, zookeepers quickly moved the chimpanzees to their indoor housing to prevent any harm.
Regular Inspections
The Houston Zoo conducts regular inspections to identify and address any potential vulnerabilities in animal enclosures, ensuring that the habitats remain secure and well-maintained.
Investigations and Collaboration
The zoo collaborates with law enforcement agencies to investigate incidents of vandalism and animal theft, as seen in the 2023 incident where a hole was cut in the mesh of the brown pelican habitat.
Key Details about the Houston Zoo
- Address: 6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030
- Phone Number: 713-533-6500
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM)
- Admission Rates: Vary depending on age, membership, and other factors (check the official website for current rates)
- Directory: The zoo is divided into various sections, including the African Forest, the Children’s Zoo, and the Texas Wetlands Exhibit.
As a zoo touring enthusiast, it’s essential to stay informed about the safety measures and incident history of the Houston Zoo. By understanding the zoo’s proactive approach to addressing these challenges, you can plan your visit with confidence and enjoy the diverse array of animals and exhibits that the Houston Zoo has to offer.
References
- https://www.myplainview.com/news/article/A-look-at-other-animal-escapes-from-Texas-zoos-8718059.php
- https://www.cbsnews.com/texas/news/houston-zoo-discovers-hole-cut-in-mesh-of-brown-pelican-habitat/
- https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2023/02/08/houston-zoo-finds-cut-in-animal-enclosure-following-issues-at-dallas-zoo/