Recent Announcements from the Erie Zoo

 

 

Press Release Announcing Erie Zoo CEO

Press Release Announcing Erie Zoo CEO

Posted on December 5th, 2023 at 11:00 AM

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Erie Zoo Appoints Roo Kojancie, Chief Executive Officer

Fmr. Zookeeper, COO will lead the zoo’s centennial anniversary, strategic plan, reaccredidation efforts

ERIE, PA (December 5, 2023) - The Erie Zoo announced Melissa “Roo” Kojancie as its new chief executive officer today, after a robust months-long search to replace Scott Mitchell, who continues to serve as the zoo’s director of development. Kojancie has more than twenty years of industry experience, serving as an animal keeper, educator, and the chief operating officer of the Erie Zoo.

Zoo Closing Early

Posted on July 19th, 2023 at 2:00 PM

Your Erie Zoo will be closing early on Friday, August 11th at 3pm to prepare for the Felines & Wines Fundraiser. 
To get more details or purchase tickets visit the Event Page

UPDATE: Lion Habitat

Posted on July 7th, 2023 at 1:35 PM

On the morning of July 7th a layer of glass in one of the panels at the outdoor lion habitat cracked in several areas. The cracking of this middle layer was caused by a rock that one of the lions unearthed and was playing with in their habitat. Erie Zoo staff took quick and appropriate action to recall the lionesses into their indoor enclosure to ensure the safety of the animals. Our guests were never in danger due to the specific design and engineering of the glass. This zoo-grade barrier is used in lion habitats throughout the zoological world and is made up of three (3) layers of both glass and laminate. The lionesses, Eva and Desta, are safe, unharmed, and for now can be viewed from their indoor habitat in the Main Building while we work to replace the panel.

Air Quality Update

Posted on June 30th, 2023 at 10:08 AM
As the air quality from the Canadian wildfires is expected to continue to fluctuate throughout the season, we are working to adapt our operations to both address safety as well as visitor experience.
 
Today, the Erie Zoo will be open with limited operations. Many animals may be off habitat due to current air quality concerns. Outdoor rides will not be running at this time and concessions will be closed. The indoor animal buildings and Gift Shop will remain open. Carousel hours will fluctuate depending on temperature as all doors will be closed.
 
We strongly value the health of our guests, staff, and animals and if you choose to visit during this time we encourage you to do so safely.
 
We realize this is an evolving situation and the zoo team is working hard to adapt to this ever-changing scenario. Veterinary and Animal Care teams are monitoring the animals closely and continue to take appropriate action in the best interest of their wellbeing.
 
As the air quality is expected to fluctuate throughout the summer, we will continue to provide updates on our social media and website.
 
We thank you for your patience, support, and understanding during this unprecedented time. Stay safe everyone!

Air Quality Update

Posted on June 29th, 2023 at 8:57 AM

The current air quality for the Erie area is back to a moderate level. The Erie Zoo will resume operation, opening at 10 AM today. We will continue to monitor the air quality reports and adjust our operating hours if the air quality proceeds into unsafe levels. Please check our social media pages or website before planning your trip to the Zoo!

Closed Due to Air Quality

Posted on June 28th, 2023 at 9:20 AM
Due to air quality concerns for our animals, staff and guests, the Erie Zoo will be closed today.
We will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide daily updates on operations as the situation evolves. Thank you for your patience and understanding. Stay safe everyone!

Closing Early

Posted on June 19th, 2023 at 11:15 AM

The Erie Zoo will be closing early at 1pm on Saturday, June 24th to prepare for The Mane Event fundraiser. Operations will resume as normal Sunday, June 25th. Thank you for your understanding!

Air Quality Update; June 9th

Posted on June 9th, 2023 at 10:39 AM

The Erie Zoo will resume its normal daily operating hours from 10 AM-5 PM today as we continue to closely monitor the air quality in our region. Our Erie Zoo team ensures that we will make necessary adjustments to our operating hours and animal care in the case the AQI changes to an unsafe level. Any new updates regarding the air quality will be posted to our social media pages and on our website at ErieZoo.org.

The Safariland Express Updates

Posted on June 9th, 2023 at 10:17 AM

The Safariland Express will be undergoing updates to the train starting on Friday, June 9th. While these updates are being made, the Safariland Express will be temporarily out of operation. We sincerely apologize for how this may affect your visit and we do hope that you will be back to ride the train once these necessary updates are completed. Thank you for your patience.

Air Quality Changes in Operations

Posted on June 8th, 2023 at 10:00 AM
Due to air quality in our area, your Erie Zoo will be closing early today. Last admission will be at 1pm and the zoo will close at 2pm. Please note, some animals, including our bird species and senior animals, will be off habitat or given access to their indoor areas for their health and safety. The Erie Zoo Animal Care and Veterinary staff will be monitoring the animals and performing risk assessments throughout the day.
 
Check back daily for updates on operations as this situation continues. We thank you for your understanding and patience during this time. Stay safe everyone!