Zoo-lovers who turned out at Niabi Zoo despite a definite chill in the air were treated to more than sunny skies at the 2023 opening day for the animals near Coal Valley Monday, April 17.
Visitors also got their first look at what Zoo Director Lee Jackson believes will be the “most exciting season yet” for the popular Rock Island County summertime staple.
In addition to improved amenities, including better food service, visitors to Niabi this year will be able to climb aboard new motorized Scooter Pals vehicles, which zoo leaders promise will make the “fun that much wilder.” Rental price for the electric scooters which look like fuzzy animals is $5 at the start of the ride and .35 cents per minute after that. Drivers must be 16 and have a valid drivers license and riders must be more than three feet tall. (Wheelchairs and electric scooters also continue to be available for rental at $10 and $25 respectively at the front gate.)
This year, Niabi also announced a new partnership with Kulture City — a company whose motto is “We make the nevers possible” — to help create an inclusive, enjoyable experience for all of Niabi’s guests, regardless of their sensory needs.
In 2023, zoo visitors also will see “two exciting new exhibits taking shape right before your very eyes as we create new state-of-the-art habitats for African Painted Dogs and Prairie Dogs, both opening later this season,” the zoo news release said. In addition, the zoo’s Big Cat and Bald Eagle exhibits also will be remodeled.
“There is always something new to experience and explore at the Niabi Zoo”, Mr. Jackson said before Monday’s grand opening, adding: “The hard work, planning, and most of all, the amazing generosity of our wonderful community has created a facility that everyone can be proud of. We can’t wait to welcome the Quad Cities community back to the zoo for what’s shaping up to be the most exciting season yet.”
Old favorites also remain, including train and carousel rides; giraffe, koi pond and domestic animal feedings; playgrounds tours and animal encounters. It also offers zoo camps. Those interested in attending can learn more here.
Niabi prides itself on its education and conservation program and actively works with other programs on field conservation, coordinated breeding programs and community education to ensure the species remain part of the natural world for generations to come.
Niabi Zoo’s 2023 spring and summer hours are Monday through Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., April 17-Sept. 10. (Last entry/admission is 4 p.m.)
Zoo-goers can plan their visit at www.niabizoo.com. Once there, they will find some 800 animals representing 200 species from around the world on the 40-acre plus forest preserve, which was founded in 1959 by animal-lover Gordon V. McLain who opened McLain’s Wild Animal Farm. The property was bought by Patti S. Wiman in 1963. She deeded the property to Rock Island County Forest Preserve District, which has operated the zoo since then.
