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Louisville Zoo Remains Open (Media Release)

CONTACT: Kyle Shepherd
Direct: 502-238-5331  |  Media Only: 502-744-5639
kyle.shepherd@louisvilleky.gov

Postpones and Cancels Certain Programming

Following the recommendations of Mayor Greg Fischer and the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health Department regarding congregate events during COVID-19 response, the Louisville Zoo will be cancelling or postponing certain programming and activities scheduled through April 5, but at this time, will remain open. The Zoo’s African Outpost and Wild Burger restaurants will be closed through April 5. Lakeside Smokehouse and certain other outdoor stands will be open to serve snacks and beverages based on attendance and weather.

Impacted programs include education programming including spring break camp, education outreaches, giraffe feeding, and lorikeet feedings.

Wild Lights is continuing as scheduled as an outdoor event that provides the opportunity for social distancing.  We are monitoring developments and are working closely with Metro Public Health. The Zoo has and will continue to follow their recommendations.

To provide for even more social distancing, the Zoo is capping attendance of Wild Lights each night to a comfortable 3,500 guests during the 4-hour event spread over the Zoo’s 90 acres.  The Wild Lights acrobat performances on the MetaZoo stage will be cancelled through April 5.

Daytime Zoo attendance will be monitored, and proactive communications on social media and the Zoo’s website will be updated to provide information on crowd size and will ask guests to use their judgment when planning a visit to the Zoo.  The Zoo may offer suggestions to visit the Zoo on another day depending on attendance.

The Zoo staff has increased their already robust cleaning procedures and are disinfecting any high-touch areas multiple times a day. The Zoo’s animals are healthy and doing well and staff continue to provide them with dedicated, professional care day in and out.

As the situation evolves, the Zoo will continue to provide updates at Louisvillezoo.org/health.

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The Louisville Zoo, a non-profit organization and state zoo of Kentucky, is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).