Hattiesburg Zoo facts for kids
The Hattiesburg Zoo, currently 2008.
|
|
| Date opened | 1950 |
|---|---|
| Location | Hattiesburg, Mississippi, United States |
| Land area | 12 acres (4.9 ha) |
| Coordinates | 31°19′25″N 89°18′55″W / 31.323736°N 89.315275°W |
| No. of species | 55+ |
| Annual visitors | 125,792 (2014) |
The Hattiesburg Zoo, also known as the Kamper Park Zoo, is a fun place to visit in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, United States. It's a 12-acre zoo located inside Kamper Park. The Hattiesburg Convention Commission runs the zoo. The zoo is home to over 55 different kinds of animals.
Contents
History of the Zoo
Kamper Park, where the zoo is located, has a long history. In 1902, John Kamper gave 40 acres of land for the park. This land was later given to the city of Hattiesburg in 1908 to become a public park. The Hattiesburg Zoo first opened its doors in 1950. It was built on about 12 acres of the park's land.
Exciting Animal Exhibits
The Hattiesburg Zoo is set among beautiful oak and pine trees within Kamper Park. It is divided into different areas, each with unique animals. You can see many types of creatures here. These include amphibians, birds, invertebrates (like insects), mammals, and reptiles.
Africa
The northern part of the zoo takes you on a trip to Africa! This area starts with a shared home for African tortoises and porcupines. You can also see different kinds of cattle and small, cute fennec foxes. There are even drums to learn about African culture.
The main part of this section is the African Veldt. Here, you can spot Grant's zebras, large eland, and tall ostriches. Other exhibits feature speedy servals. There is also a mixed habitat for DeBrazza guenon monkeys and tiny Blue duikers.
Wallaby Walkabout
Opened in 2018, the Wallaby Walkabout is a special area. It's a barrier-free path where you can walk right through the exhibit! Here, you can get close to Bennett's wallabies, tall emus, and friendly kunekune pigs. It's a unique way to interact with these amazing animals.
Learning and Education
Asbury Discovery Center
In 2014, the Asbury Discovery Center opened at the zoo. This building is 2,200 square feet. It works as a laboratory, a classroom, and an office space all in one. The center offers many chances for both kids and adults to learn about animals and nature. It helps visitors understand more about wildlife and conservation.
The Zoo's Future
The Hattiesburg Zoo is always growing and adding new things! In 2018, the zoo's director, Rick Taylor, asked for money to build new exhibits. The zoo has since built exciting new homes for giraffes and spotted hyenas. These new exhibits are expected to open soon. There are also plans for new homes for the zoo's alligators and colorful flamingos.
