COAL VALLEY, ILLINOIS (October 28, 2022) — Niabi Zoo is proud to announce that an encore of our 4th Annual Animal Art Show and sale will return this weekend during Boo at the Zoo! Original art by a whole host of animals will be available for purchase, on zoo grounds, 10AM-3PM on both Saturday and Sunday. Hours will be adjusted in the event of rain. Entry is included with the price of admission (free to members).

All artwork is original (no copies or prints) with prices starting at $10. Each piece of art comes with a certificate of authenticity and the animals’ artwork also comes with a biography of the animal that completed the piece and how it was accomplished. Along with art from some of our accomplished animal artists, such as Twiga Giraffe, Monique the Sloth, and Kito, our four-year-old Rhino, we are excited to introduce art from first-time animal artists. Kanoni the Ostrich is proving to be a talented paintbrush artist and we will have lovely footwork art from two of our newest family groups — our fennec foxes and Amur leopards.

Importantly, our animal artists will reap the benefits of the art show as 100% of the proceeds will go to support our animal enrichment program. This means that we will be able to purchase a whole host of specialized enrichment devices for our animals to interact with and enjoy.

Our animals (facilitated by their keepers) have been busy creating some amazing artwork, so we hope you’ll mark your calendars and come on out to purchase some unique animal art to add to your collection, adorn your home or office, or to give as a one-of-a-kind gift for that special someone.

To plan your visit, go to www.niabizoo.com.

About Niabi Zoo

Niabi Zoo, which is operated by the Forest Preserve District of Rock Island County, offers an opportunity to explore more than forty acres in Coal Valley, Illinois that encompass 200 animal species. This exploration guides guests through the discovery of more than 800 animals from around the world. 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. For more information about the Zoo, visit NiabiZoo.com.

Like so many others, staff shortages have required us to rethink our operational strategy in an effort to continue providing the level of service our guests and animals deserve.

Effective 2022, tickets pre-ordered online by 9AM the day of your visit will be discounted while tickets purchased at the zoo admission booth will be a few dollars more. Our new process will allow us to staff more effectively for expected attendance, ensuring the best experience for you and while taking care of our team.

You can find all the details here: https://www.niabizoo.com/plan-your-visit/hours-pricing/.

The Niabi Zoo is a proud member of the Zoological Association of America (ZAA). Member Institutions are held to the highest standards of animal care and welfare. The ZAA is the fastest growing professional zoo organization in the United States.

Work with the Zoo!

The Niabi Zoo and Forest Preserves Foundation (NZFP) is looking for passionate, motivated community leaders to join our board. The Niabi Zoo foundation, as the sole official fundraising arm of the Niabi Zoo, plays a leading role in the growth and expansion of the Zoo as it moves towards realization of its masterplan. Board members will work closely with Zoo staff while planning fundraising events both on and off Zoo grounds.

For more information, please contact: Krisan Steiger 4niabizoofoundation@gmail.com.

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