Hutchinson Zoo facts for kids

The Hutchinson Zoo is a cool place to visit in Hutchinson, Kansas, United States. It's a smaller zoo, about 9 acres (3.6 hectares), but it's packed with interesting animals! Since 1997, the zoo has been officially recognized by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). This means it meets high standards for animal care and education.

The Zoo's Story

The idea for the Hutchinson Zoo started in 1983. After a few years of planning, the zoo officially opened its doors on May 23, 1986.

In 2003, a new visitor center was built. It was designed to look like a cozy log cabin.

The zoo has faced challenges, too. In both 2007 and 2019, floods caused the zoo to close for about four months.

Amazing Animal Exhibits

The Hutchinson Zoo loves to show off animals that live in Kansas and other parts of the United States. But you'll also find some exciting animals from other countries!

Bison: Kansas Giants

Since 2000, the zoo has been home to bison. These huge animals are native to Kansas, but they are rarely seen in the wild today.

The bison don't live in the main part of the zoo. They have a large area across a pond where they can roam and eat grass. You can only see them when you ride the zoo train. The zoo is working to help breed pure bison.

Black-Footed Ferrets: Rare Survivors

In 1998, the zoo welcomed black-footed ferrets. These ferrets are one of the most endangered species in North America.

The Hutchinson Zoo was the very first zoo in Kansas to have these special animals. They play an important role in helping this species survive.

Prairie Dogs: Underground Fun

One popular exhibit features busy prairie dogs. Next to their habitat, there's a cool tunneling system for kids. You can crawl through it and see into the prairie dog tunnels, just like they do!

In 2007, a flood filled the viewing tunnel with water. In 2010, the zoo even housed about 175 prairie dogs temporarily. Their natural home was in the way of a construction project nearby.

Tamarin Monkeys: Tiny Tree Dwellers

The zoo has also housed tamarin monkeys. Two of these tiny monkeys were born right at the zoo in 1999.

The cotton-top tamarin monkeys are part of the AZA's Species Survival Program. This program helps protect endangered animals. Sadly, in 2014, some of these monkeys got sick from a virus carried by mice.

Animals and Man: Petting Fun

The "Animals and Man" exhibit is a special place. Here, you can meet and even pet domesticated animals from different countries. It's a great way to get up close with friendly animals!

Aquarium: Underwater World

The zoo also has an Aquarium with various fish and aquatic animals on display.

In December 2016, a new resident joined the collection. A brown banded bamboo shark hatched at the zoo and became part of the aquarium family.

Fun Zoo Attractions

Prairie Thunder Railroad: A Scenic Ride

One of the main attractions at the zoo is the Prairie Thunder Railroad. This fun train takes you on a ride all around the zoo!

The train has been running since 2003. Almost 10,000 people ride it every year. The journey takes about eight minutes.

Boo at the Zoo: Halloween Fun

Every year around Halloween, the zoo hosts a special event called "Boo at the Zoo." Children can come dressed in their costumes. They can even go trick-or-treat right at the zoo!

Helping Animals: Rehabilitation Program

The Hutchinson Zoo is one of only four places in Kansas that helps injured or sick wild animals get better. This is called animal rehabilitation.

The zoo started its animal rehabilitation program in 1991. In their first year, they helped thirteen animals. Many different animals, including bald eagles, have been cared for through this program. By 2004, the program had grown to help over 600 animals!

In 2012, the zoo decided to limit the number and types of animals they would help. This was to make sure they could help animals who truly needed it. It also helped keep all the zoo animals healthy and safe from potential illnesses.