The Miller Park Zoo is proud to announce the official opening dates for our new South America habitats and building! Building construction for the $1.1 million project was completed as planned in April, funded by an Illinois Department of Natural Resources grant, the Miller Park Zoological Society, and the Ewing Zoo Foundation. Our newest animal residents arrived safely at the Zoo and are nearly finished with their official quarantine period. We know everyone will love “Puddles” the Chilean pudu and “Chili” the giant anteater, both of whom have already stolen the hearts of staff. The giant tortoises will move to their new habitat before the “official” opening, so look for our friends “Gala” and “Pagos” in their new home. As the final touches to the landscaping and fencing near completion, we are preparing to share our excitement with the community! The Zoo will be hosting a series of events to celebrate this auspicious occasion:

·  Friday June 23, 2023 at 9:30 am: South America habitats are officially open to all visitors!

· Saturday June 24, 8:30 am: Zoo Member early access. The Zoo will open its doors at 8:30 am to Miller Park Zoological Society Members. Members will have full access to view the new habitats and animals for an hour before the regular opening hours at 9:30 am. Morning event will include refreshments and keeper talks.
(The Zoo will also close at 1 pm this day in preparation for the annual “Brews at the Zoo” event).

If you are interested in becoming a Miller Park Zoological Society member and taking advantage of this invitation and the annual membership benefits,
you can join at https://mpzs.org/membership or call (309) 434-2816.

Tickets for Brews at the Zoo are still available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brews-at-the-zoo-2023-tickets-609788211957 .