Visitors to Woodland Park Zoo can now get closer to animals in a newly reimagined area as the zoo launches the first phase of a major transformation project.
Visitors to Woodland Park Zoo can now get closer to animals in a newly reimagined area as the zoo launches the first phase of a major transformation project.
The opening of Lorikeet Landing marks phase one of Wild Encounters, a redevelopment of the zoo’s former Family Farm into what the zoo describes as a refreshed hub for up-close animal experiences for guests of all ages. The space is being redesigned around the concept “where everyone cares like a keeper,” with hands-on opportunities focused on animals and animal care activities.
Phase one also includes the addition of two rescued female Aldabra giant tortoises, one of the world’s largest land tortoises. The zoo said the tortoises joined the zoo thanks to the generosity of a longtime zoo friend and donor.
Phase two of Wild Encounters is scheduled to open in 2027. The zoo said its ambassador animals currently can be seen by the public during on-ground programming only and live in support areas that are not viewable to guests. The phase two renovation is expected to bring the ambassador animals program “center stage” with flexible, viewable habitats designed to support a rotating cast of ambassador animals.
The zoo said the updated space is planned to feature a variety of species, including capybara, coati, three-banded armadillo, North American porcupine, striped skunk, African-crested porcupine, raptors, kookaburra, blue-faced honeyeaters and more.
Woodland Park Zoo said it aspires to complete fundraising for phase two by Dec. 31, 2026. The zoo said charitable contributions will help renovate aging facilities for ambassador animal well-being and add new up-close experiences for the community in 2027.
The zoo’s summer hours run through Sept. 7, with the zoo open 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Fall hours begin Sept. 8, with the zoo open 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
