If you’re looking for something fun to do with the family, and out in the world, the Cameron Park Zoo in Waco is open to visitors every day. Zoo staff confirm all of the wild animals are healthy and outside for viewing as long as weather is relatively clear and above 50°F.
MUST-SEE IN MARCH
Springtime visitors are in for a treat at the Savannah exhibit! Its newest resident, born January 22, was 6 feet tall and weighed 135lbs, thanks to Penelope, the zoo’s Masai giraffe. This was her first calf, and the zoo’s first Masai birth. “Zeke” was named after the zoo held a fundraising contest to allow the public to choose his name, which raised $1,754 for the Giraffe Conservation Foundation. While still very small for a giraffe, Zeke was already taller than all of his handlers at birth, gained 30 pounds in his first two weeks, and continues to grow rapidly.
When full-grown, Zeke will be the largest of the giraffes. The Masai are the largest subspecies, found in Central and Southern Kenya and in Tanzania. They are known for distinctive, irregular, jagged, star-like blotches that extend to their hooves.
SAVING WILDLIFE
When you visit the animals, you’re also helping them. In addition to donating a portion of your admission ticket, the zoo has many standing campaigns that support operations in Waco, and conservation efforts around the world. In addition to the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, the zoo also supports organizations that help rhinos, orangutans, and more.
The Cameron Park Zoological and Botanical Society is the non-profit side of the zoo, which allows them to function as a 501(c) 3 organization. Marketing Manager Duane McGregor says, “Donors are very important to the Cameron Park Zoo’s education and animal care programs, field projects, and local and international conservation initiatives.” Anyone can participate in their giving campaigns and even $5.00 helps purchase enrichment toys like Kong feeders, which help keep carnivores stimulated since, as kept animals, they do not hunt.
WHEN YOU GO
All exhibits are open and guests are asked to wear masks when inside or visiting designated exhibits in which the animals are believed to be susceptible. Membership manager Kristi Webb says, even with restrictions, zoo attendance during the week is very light, and even Saturdays are generally under capacity. “Spring Break is a very busy time but as a general rule, if you can find a parking spot in our lot, you will not be turned away. If not, maybe grab a quick bite in Waco and come back to check again and it’s likely some families have left and you can come on in.