The Houston Zoo has an exciting lineup of future plans and initiatives aimed at elevating the visitor experience, improving animal habitats, and championing sustainability and conservation efforts. From new immersive exhibits to sustainable infrastructure upgrades, the Zoo is poised to shape its second century as a premier destination for wildlife education and exploration.
New Exhibits and Habitat Changes
Africa
The existing African Forest exhibits will be complemented by new habitats, including:
– Forest habitats for okapi, primates, and birds
– A wetland area for hippos and shoebill storks
– A mixed savanna landscape with interconnected, rotational environments for antelopes, cheetahs, small mammals, and birds
Additionally, a major new indoor/outdoor special events space, themed as an African safari lodge, will overlook the expansive savanna habitat.
Asian Islands
The Wortham World of Primates and nearby areas will be re-developed with two immersive habitat loops and an associated special events space. Featured species may include:
– Orangutans
– Siamangs
– Babirusa
– Otters
– Gibbons
– Clouded leopards
– Hornbills
– Tigers
The existing Asian elephant exhibits will also be expanded to provide a more natural forest setting.
Medical Center Entry
When new public parking and pedestrian access is created southwest of the Zoo, a major re-invention of the Zoo’s Medical Center entry and nearby areas will be necessary.
Sustainability and Conservation Efforts
LED Lighting
The Zoo is transitioning to 100% LED lighting, which has already reduced energy usage by 70% in the Reptile and Amphibian House. Similar transitions are planned for Wortham World of Primates and other Zoo areas.
Electronic Recycling
The Zoo has expanded its cell phone and small electronics recycling program, which helps preserve animal habitats in central Africa by reducing the demand for coltan, a mineral used in electronic devices.
Sustainable Plush Animals
The Zoo’s retail partner, SSA Group, has released a new line of plush animals crafted from 100% recycled materials, promoting environmental stewardship.
LEED-Certified Headquarters
The Zoo’s brand-new headquarters building (HZHQ) has earned LEED Gold certification, reducing energy usage by 24% compared to a standard office building.
Strategic Plan
Shaping Our Second Century
The Zoo’s Strategic Plan focuses on four priorities:
1. Connecting communities with animals
2. Inspiring action to save wildlife
3. Providing excellent care for animals
4. Operating sustainably
Completed Projects
- Galápagos Islands: Opened in April 2023, this exhibit immerses visitors in the starkly beautiful environment of the Galápagos Islands and highlights the Zoo’s ongoing field work with giant tortoises, birds, and marine animals.
- Renovated Main Entrance: Opened in January 2021, the new main entrance includes a plaza with seating areas.
- McGovern Plaza: Opened in January 2021, this plaza greets guests upon entering the Zoo.
- South America’s Pantanal: This exhibit allows guests to explore the tropical wetlands of Brazil and features animals such as giant anteaters, tapirs, and more.
- Orangutan Habitat: The orangutan habitat got an extreme makeover in 2020, including a new climbing structure, more shade, and a beach for the turtles.
- Texas Wetlands: This exhibit brings together three native Texas species—bald eagles, whooping cranes, and American alligators—in a lush wetland habitat.
Upcoming Projects
- Hamill Foundation Bear Exhibit: Scheduled to open in the future, this exhibit will feature a unique landscape and wildlife.
Visitor Information
- Hours: The Zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours during summer and special events.
- Admission: Ticket prices vary depending on the time of year and visitor age, with discounts available for members and groups.
- Directory: The Zoo can be contacted at (713) 533-6500 or through their website.
References
- https://www.houstonzoo.org/blog/houston-zoo-leads-the-charge-towards-a-greener-future/
- https://s28164.pcdn.co/files/HZI_Strategic_Plan.pdf
- https://www.houstonzoo.org/about/strategicplan/
- https://www.houstonzoo.org/houston-zoo-construction-update/
- https://www.zoochat.com/community/threads/houston-zoo-master-plan-speculation.487247/