|
History In 1955, a group of outdoor sports and wildlife enthusiasts established the Central Texas Zoological Park to create recreation and education opportunities for Central Texas residents through the observation of natural wildlife. To accomplish this task, the founders of the Central Texas Zoological Park procured animals with which to develop various exhibits. Through the efforts of these and other concerned individuals throughout the community, the Central Texas Zoo expanded its exhibits from 58 live specimens to more than 400, representing about 200 hundred species. A master plan was developed in 1981 to build a new Zoological Park and a countywide bond issue was passed in 1989 to build the new Cameron Park Zoo on a 52-acre site in Cameron Park. This 416-acre park located on the banks of the Brazos River and one mile from downtown Waco and Interstate-35 is one of the largest undeveloped municipal parks in the United States. Central Texas Zoo was closed in June of 1993 and the new Cameron Park Zoo opened to the public July 18, 1993. The walkways of Cameron Park Zoo meander through lush landscapes and natural habitat displays featuring animals from Africa, Asia, South America, North America, and Madagascar. An 1880s Texas ranch house serves as an education facility, complete with whitetail deer, turkey, and peccary display. A state of the art Herpetarium opened in 1997. This unique immersion display houses more than 50 species of reptiles, amphibians, and fish from around the world. Grammy Nell's Play Area opened in 1998 with a focus on nature-based play and a zero-depth splash fountain. The following year a $600,000 African lion display was built thanks to the family and friends of Sam "Jack" McGlasson. In 2000, the Cameron Park Zoological & Botanical Society committed funds to build El Rey de la Montana, featuring a variety of South American mammals, birds, and reptiles. The featured animal in this display is the King Vulture. Cameron Park Zoo is the most prolific breeder of this species in the North America. Most recently, Lemur Island opened June 28, 2002. It is home to three species of Lemurs including the Sclater's black lemur, a critically endangered species that is held in only 14 institutions worldwide. In November 2000, the residents of McLennan County passed a $9.5 million bond for continued expansion of the Cameron Park Zoo. The bond money is committed to build the signature display, Brazos River Country. It will be an educational display combining 120 species of indigenous wildlife found along the Brazos River from the Gulf of Mexico to its origin in New Mexico. Scheduled for completion in late 2004 or early 2005, the display will take the visitor through seven vegetation zones of Texas incorporating the natural and cultural history of each region. Additionally some of the funds from the bond will be used to bring Orangutans and Komodo dragon displays in 2005-2006. This unique history of exceptional public support and positive growth is possible due to the unique working relationship between the Zoological Society and the City of Waco and McLennan County. The County has agreed that they will remain open to the issue of calling for bond elections while the City is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the zoo. The Zoological Society manages and handles capital fundraising for the Zoo, along with all special events, development projects and guest service arrangements. Mission of the Cameron Park Zoo To promote awareness and cultural enrichment through education and recreation, to be a survival center for native and exotic species, and an active community partner in economic development through tourism. Customer Service Statement To make our Zoo Patrons' best experience better! Certifications/Accreditation American Zoological and Aquarium Association (AZA). World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). Texas Wildscapes Backyard Habitat certified.
1701 North 4th Street | Waco, Texas 76707 | (254) 750-8400 Site design by Pollei Design Works | HTML programming by Carla Lowe Associates Flash programming by McKinleyBrown |