Dads to receive free admission on Father’s Day; new animals to see include Aldabra Tortoises and Bactrian Camels
COAL VALLEY, Ill. (June 9, 2017) –This Father’s Day, Sunday, June 18, all dads will receive free admission to Niabi Zoo.
“We are excited to welcome families to the Zoo for Father’s Day,” said Lee Jackson, director of Niabi Zoo. “We have several animal families here at the Zoo, and we also have several new animals for families to see. Last month, two Bactrian Camels joined us as well as an Aldabra Giant Tortoise. Our Domestic Animal area has new alpacas and mini-donkeys.”
In May, Niabi welcomed Aldabra Tortoises to the Zoo. The Aldabra tortoise is one of the world’s largest land tortoises and can reach sizes of up to 550 pounds and ages of up to 150 years old. Sal, the Zoo’s Two-Toed Sloth, is also in his new home in Biodiversity Hall.
The Bactrian Camels also made the Zoo their new home in May. The camels can grow as tall as 7 ft. high at the hump, and weigh up to 1,800 lbs. The mammals are primarily herbivores, and their preferred habitats include desert, dune, savanna and grasslands. The camels’ habitat is located right at the entrance of the Zoo.
The Australian Outback is open, and is now home to 200 new parakeets! These colorful, graceful birds are full of energy – experience it yourself by stepping inside and feeding them. In addition, there are 12 dozen new reptiles at the Reptile House, and new domestic animals to see, including an alpaca and mini donkey.
“As you visit the Zoo this Father’s Day, you may notice construction projects throughout the grounds,” said Jackson. “Niabi Zoo is undergoing several construction projects to improve existing buildings and build new facilities. We appreciate your patience and support as we grow and expand.”
The Zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Last entry will take place at 4 p.m.
For more information about Niabi, its exhibits and upcoming events, visit NiabiZoo.com.
###
About Niabi Zoo
Niabi Zoo offers an opportunity to explore more than 40 acres that encompass 200 animal species from multiple continents while enjoying the countryside of Rock Island County. This exploration guides guests through the discovery of more than 600 animals representing over 200 species from around the world. The Zoo places great emphasis on educating both children and adults about the importance of conservation and how they can play a part in saving species and their ecosystems for future generations. The educational center is an important part of their mission to connect the community with the natural world through conservation leadership and engaging educational experiences. Niabi Zoo strives to instill a sense of care and understanding for wild animals in each and every visitor as they work in the community.
Niabi Zoo is now open for the 2017 season. For more information about the Zoo, visit NiabiZoo.com.
