In spite of the economic downturn, Nashville Zoo has seen a double-digit increase in visitors for the first five months of 2009. More than 250, 000 guests visited the Zoo from January to May, up 19 percent from the same time last year.
"All of us here at Nashville Zoo would like to thank the community for their support, " says Nashville Zoo President Rick Schwartz. "In thes
e tough economic times, it’s heartwarming to see that people choose to spend their hard-earned time and money at the Zoo."
Additionally, Zoo membership sales continue to climb with an 8 percent increase from last year. The Zoo celebrated its best April on record, with nearly 87, 000 visitors in that month alone. The second highest attendance day on record came on April 11 with nearly 9, 000 guests attending the Zoo’s annual Easter egg hunt, Eggstravaganzoo.
Schwartz attributes the increase to area residents traveling less and enjoying more local attractions, as well as the addition of several new animals to the Zoo’s exhibits. In March, the Zoo introduced two giant anteaters, eight Damara zebras and a pair of white tiger cubs. The tiger cubs will be on exhibit until June 22, when they return to their permanent home in Florida.
“We continue to work hard to make additions and open new exhibits that appeal not only to our first time guests, but also bring back our loyal supporters and members, ” said Schwartz.
Nashville Zoo is accredited by the prestigious Association of Zoos and Aquariums, assuring the highest standards of animal care and husbandry. The Zoo is a non-profit organization located at 3777 Nolensville Road and is open every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. The mission of Nashville Zoo is to inspire a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation and leadership.
For more information about Nashville Zoo, please call 615-833-1534 or visit our website at www.nashvillezoo.org.
See also:
Twenty-four North American Zoos and Aquariums Earn AZA Accreditation
