Have you heard the news? The BREC Baton Rouge Zoo's New Orientation Plaza is open! 

Welcome to the New Orientation Plaza

As guests step through the new entry of the Baton Rouge Zoo, they will be greeted by the expansive Orientation Plaza. This area is designed to be a central hub, where visitors can gather, relax, and plan their adventure through the zoo. The plaza features the iconic globe fountain, relocated from its previous position at the old zoo entrance, serving as a familiar and beautiful landmark.

The Orientation Plaza is a dynamic space for small crowds to gather for performances or presentations. The plaza is thoughtfully designed with a hierarchical system of pathways that guide visitors seamlessly into different sections of the zoo, ensuring a smooth and engaging start to their visit.

Exciting New Animal Exhibits and Care Facilities

The zoo's renovation includes the introduction of several new animal exhibits and care facilities, aimed at enhancing both the visitor experience and the well-being of the animals.

Pygmy Hippos and Colobus Monkeys Exhibit: One of the most anticipated additions is the combined exhibit for Pygmy Hippos and Colobus Monkeys. This innovative exhibit allows visitors to view the hippos through glass walls of their aquatic pool, while the Colobus Monkeys roam and climb the trees and land features above.

Modernized Giraffe Exhibit: The giraffe exhibit will undergo a significant upgrade, featuring a new night barn and an "eye-level" feeding station. This unique feeding station includes a ramp that allows visitors to meet giraffes at eye level, providing an unforgettable and intimate experience.

New Aviaries and Night Houses: The renovation includes the construction of four new aviaries with night houses, showcasing birds from North America, South America, and Africa. These aviaries will offer visitors a chance to observe a diverse range of bird species in habitats designed to mimic their natural environments.

American Hoofstock Exhibit: A new exhibit for American hoofstock, including bison and elk, will be introduced. This exhibit will provide ample space for these majestic animals to roam and for visitors to learn about their behaviors and conservation.

Infrastructure Improvements

Many of the Phase One improvements focus on modernizing the zoo's infrastructure, particularly in managing water. The current system, which combines runoff from rainfall and sewerage in an on-site sanitary treatment facility, will be upgraded. The obsolete motes will be removed, and separate systems for stormwater management and sewerage treatment will be established. These essential upgrades may not be immediately visible to visitors but are crucial for the zoo's long-term sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Final Thoughts

The renovation of the BREC Baton Rouge Zoo marks a new chapter in its history, bringing state-of-the-art exhibits and facilities that will delight visitors and enhance the lives of the animals. The New Orientation Plaza sets the stage for a memorable visit, offering a warm welcome and a glimpse into the exciting adventures that await inside the zoo. With the addition of new animal exhibits, improved infrastructure, and a commitment to future enhancements, the Baton Rouge Zoo is poised to become an even more cherished destination for families, animal lovers, and the community. We're so excited that it exists and can't wait for you to experience all the amazing changes!