On Monday, April 8, the Louisville area will be in the path of a solar eclipse.

The Louisville Zoo will be open for visitors.  As a result, the Zoo receives lots of questions when an event like this occurs, and here are some Frequently asked questions about the impact of this on Zoo animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the timing and extent of the solar eclipse on April 8?
The eclipse will start at 1:49 p.m., peak at 3:07 p.m., and end at 4:22 p.m. Our area will experience near totality, reaching 98.9%.

Will the eclipse affect the behavior of our zoo animals?
No significant behavioral changes are expected. Similar to a passing storm, the eclipse shouldn’t disrupt their routines. Past events, like the 2017 eclipse, didn’t result in observable changes either. Our keepers will be closely monitoring the animals throughout the eclipse, ensuring their well-being remains paramount. We anticipate that the animals will adhere to their usual daily routines, treating the eclipse as just another part of their day.

Do animals need special viewing apparatuses like humans?
Unlike humans, animals do not stare directly at the sun, so they won’t require protective eyewear.

Should guests visiting the Zoo on April 8 take any precautions to view the eclipse?
Yes, we highly recommend using proper eyewear to ensure safety. Everyday sunglasses are not sufficient.

Where can guests find guidance on suitable eyewear?
Guests should refer to NASA, the expert source on all things eclipse-related. They provide detailed information on compliant eyewear at this link: NASA Eclipse Safety Guidelines.
Glasses should be compliant with ISO 12312-2 standards, but this information should be obtained directly from NASA.