The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, formerly known as Zooland Animal Park, has evolved from humble beginnings to become a renowned establishment in the southern Alabama region. Founded in 1989 by Joey Ward, the zoo has overcome financial hardships and weathered several hurricanes, including Hurricane Danny in 1997 and Hurricane Ivan in 2004. Its perseverance and resilience garnered widespread media attention and led to its feature in the reality television series 'The Little Zoo That Could.'
Amidst these challenges, the zoo has continued to expand and enhance its offerings, with plans to open a new facility in 2012. Through educational programs, diverse animal collections, and community support, the zoo stands as a testament to unwavering determination in the face of adversity.
Key Takeaways
- The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo was founded in 1989 by Joey Ward as Zooland Animal Park.
- The zoo has faced numerous challenges, including multiple hurricanes and financial difficulties, but has overcome them with community support and fundraising efforts.
- The zoo gained media attention when it was featured in the reality television series 'The Little Zoo That Could', which significantly increased attendance.
- The zoo is currently undergoing expansion and will be moving to a new facility in 2012, with features such as an underwater viewing area and a storm shelter.
History and Location
Establishing in 1989 by Joey Ward as Zooland Animal Park, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is located in Gulf Shores, Baldwin County, Alabama, near the pristine white sand beaches of southern Alabama on the Gulf of Mexico.
In its early years, the zoo started with a small aviary, reptile house, petting zoo, and a few large cats and primates.
It faced significant challenges due to the impact of hurricanes, including Hurricane Danny in 1997 and Hurricane Ivan in 2004, which led to the first full-scale evacuation of a U.S. zoo during a natural disaster.
Despite suffering damage and financial difficulties, the zoo overcame these challenges with community support, fundraising efforts, and media attention.
The zoo's resilience and growth have made it a prominent educational and conservation resource in the Gulf Coast region.
Challenges Faced
Despite experiencing multiple hurricanes, including Hurricane Danny in 1997 and Hurricane Ivan in 2004, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo persevered through significant damage and financial difficulties. The challenges posed by these natural disasters were formidable, with the zoo facing extensive repairs and the possibility of closure due to financial strain in 1999.
Overcoming adversity, the zoo rallied with support from the community, fundraising efforts, and increased media attention. The turning point came with the reality TV series 'The Little Zoo That Could', which drew attention from the Animal Planet cable channel and substantially boosted zoo attendance. This surge in popularity provided the necessary financial impetus for the zoo to continue its operations.
These challenges ultimately paved the way for the zoo's remarkable journey from hurricanes to reality TV stardom.
Media Attention and Reality TV Series
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo garnered significant media attention and was featured in a reality television series titled 'The Little Zoo That Could', which substantially increased zoo attendance.
The show had a profound impact on the zoo's reputation, drawing attention from a larger audience and positioning the zoo as a resilient and determined establishment.
The increased media exposure resulted in a more than two-fold rise in zoo attendance, showcasing the profound effect of the reality TV series on the zoo's popularity.
This heightened interest not only provided a significant boost to the zoo's financial standing but also helped to solidify its status as an influential and noteworthy wildlife conservation institution.
The exposure from the reality TV series undoubtedly played a pivotal role in elevating the zoo's presence and reinforcing its reputation as a must-visit destination.
Expansion and New Facility
Following the surge in popularity from the reality TV series, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo embarked on a significant expansion and the development of a new state-of-the-art facility. The new facility, set to open in 2012, will include innovative features such as an underwater viewing area and a storm shelter. Moreover, the zoo received a generous donation of two Bengal tiger cubs in 2011 from tiger expert Josip Marcan, further enhancing its collection. The new facility is designed to honor the Weir family, who donated 25 acres for the site, and celebrate the zoo's planned move. This exciting development will undoubtedly elevate the zoo's profile and provide an enriching experience for visitors.
| New Facility Design | Tiger Cubs Donation | Planned Opening Year |
|---|---|---|
| Underwater viewing area | 2 Bengal tiger cubs | 2012 |
Educational Programs and Events
Amidst its expansion and enhanced animal collection, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo offers a diverse range of educational programs and engaging events for visitors of all ages.
The zoo's educational programs include lectures, job shadowing, and off-site animal showings, providing an interactive and informative experience for its visitors.
In addition, the zoo hosts a weeklong summer zoo camp tailored for children aged 5-12, allowing them to engage with wildlife and learn about conservation in an immersive setting.
Furthermore, the zoo's winter events, such as Boo at the Zoo, Zoolabration Golf Tournament, and Sandy Claws Christmas celebration, offer enjoyable and educational experiences for families during the colder months.
These initiatives contribute to the zoo's annual attendance of over 100,000 visitors and are supported by various organizations, businesses, and private donors.
Community Support and Partnerships
As the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo faced significant challenges, such as natural disasters and financial difficulties, it received crucial support from the community and formed strategic partnerships to ensure its survival and growth.
The following points illustrate the depth of community involvement and fundraising efforts:
- Community Fundraising: The local community rallied together to organize various fundraising events, including charity auctions, benefit concerts, and sponsored runs, to raise funds for the zoo's recovery and expansion.
- Corporate Partnerships: The zoo established partnerships with local businesses and corporations, leading to sponsorship deals, in-kind donations, and collaborative marketing efforts to promote the zoo and its initiatives.
- Volunteer Engagement: A dedicated team of volunteers, consisting of local residents and wildlife enthusiasts, contributed their time and expertise to support the zoo through animal care, maintenance, and visitor engagement initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does the Zoo Handle the Care and Feeding of Its Animals During Hurricanes and Other Natural Disasters?
During hurricanes and natural disasters, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo implements emergency protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of its animals. This includes securing habitats, providing animal enrichment, and having contingency plans for feeding and medical care.
What Are Some of the Most Popular Animals at the Zoo and Why?
Some of the popular animals at the zoo include Bengal tigers, primates, and reptiles. Visitors are drawn to their interactive exhibits and the zoo's focus on animal enrichment and conservation efforts.
How Does the Zoo Ensure the Safety of Visitors During Severe Weather Events?
The zoo ensures visitor safety during severe weather events through established emergency protocols, including full-scale evacuations and designated storm shelters. These measures, combined with continuous monitoring and coordination with local authorities, prioritize the protection of all visitors.
What Are Some of the Unique Features or Attractions That the New Facility Will Offer?
The new facility at Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo promises a wealth of unique features and attractions. Visitors can look forward to new exhibits, interactive experiences, and conservation efforts, all made possible through strong community partnerships.
How Does the Zoo Work With Local Schools and Organizations to Promote Wildlife Conservation and Education?
The zoo collaborates with local schools and organizations to promote wildlife conservation and education through educational programs, lectures, job shadowing, zoo camps, and community events. It fosters local partnerships and community outreach to engage in wildlife conservation efforts.
Conclusion
Through perseverance and community support, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo has overcome financial struggles and natural disasters to become a thriving attraction. Its journey from humble beginnings to reality TV stardom is a testament to resilience and determination.
The zoo's expansion and diverse animal collection, along with its educational programs and events, serve as a source of inspiration and hope. It stands as a symbol of triumph over adversity and the power of collective effort.
Our Reader’s Queries
Does Gulf Shores Alabama have a zoo?
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo houses over 200 animals, including many endangered species whose numbers are declining in their natural habitats. Your donation supports the ongoing care and enrichment of these animals at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.
How much does it cost to go to Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo?
Adults between the ages of 13 and 61 can enjoy all the fun for just $22.95. Seniors who are 62 and older, as well as military personnel, can join in for a discounted rate of $19.95. Kids aged 3 to 12 are welcome to join the excitement for just $14.95, while little ones under the age of 2 are free of charge. Just be sure to bring along a valid ID to claim the military discount.
Did Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo move?
Did you hear the big news? The new Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo has relocated just four miles away to its new spot. This is a huge undertaking – constructing a completely new zoo from the ground up – and this hasn’t been seen in the U.S. for over 20 years!
How long does it take to go through the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo?
The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo typically takes about 2 hours to explore, as it is a bit smaller than other zoos. The animals always leave me amazed and I thoroughly enjoy my time there.
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