Collins Zoo facts for kids
| Date opened | 1988 |
|---|---|
| Location | Collins, Mississippi, USA |
| Coordinates | 31°36′57″N 89°32′17″W / 31.6159659°N 89.5379305°W |
| No. of animals | 300 |
| No. of species | 100 |
The Collins Zoo is a special place located in Collins, Mississippi. It used to be known as the Collins Exotic Animal Orphanage. This zoo is home to many different animals and offers fun activities for visitors.
Contents
Discovering the Collins Zoo
The Collins Zoo was started in 1986 by Gus White. It quickly became a popular spot for people to see amazing animals. Over the years, the zoo has worked to care for its animal residents.
Sometimes, state wildlife officials visited the zoo. They wanted to make sure the zoo had all the right permits for its animals. Even though there were some disagreements about permits, judges often decided that the zoo owners did not need them.
The zoo's special license from the USDA was stopped in May 2013. Since then, the zoo has been closed to visitors.
Amazing Animals at the Zoo
The Collins Zoo was home to many exciting animals. Visitors could see big cats like African Lions, tigers, cougars, and leopards. These powerful animals were a major highlight for everyone.
A beautiful white wolf also lived at the zoo. It was a special sight right in the middle of the zoo grounds.
For those who loved reptiles, the zoo had a lot to offer. There were over forty different kinds of snakes, lizards, and turtles. It was a great chance to learn about these fascinating creatures.
Fun Things to Do
Besides seeing the animals, the Collins Zoo offered other fun activities. These made a visit even more exciting for families and kids.
- Petting zoo: Visitors could get up close with friendly animals. This was a favorite for younger children.
- Souvenir shop: You could find cool gifts and reminders of your visit.
- Animal feedings: Sometimes, visitors could watch or even help feed some of the animals. This was a unique experience.
Working with State Officials
The Collins Zoo sometimes had visits from the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. These visits were usually about making sure the zoo had the correct permits for its animals.
In 2001, state officials visited the zoo. They moved several animals that are native to Mississippi. These included skunks, alligators, alligator snapping turtles, and bobcats.
Another visit happened in March 2010. During this time, an opossum, red-eared slider turtles, and some box turtles were moved. The zoo received notices about needing permits for some animals.
The last big visit was on January 25, 2012. During this time, some tigers, cougars, leopards, wolf hybrids, and a rhesus macaque monkey were moved. These animals were then taken to special animal sanctuaries in Texas and North Carolina.
