Bear Hollow Zoo, located in Athens, Georgia, is a 22-acre zoo that has been a staple of the community for over 70 years. The zoo is situated within Memorial Park, a 72-acre park that also features walking trails, a lake, and plenty of picnic areas. Bear Hollow Zoo is home to a variety of animals, including black bears, bobcats, white-tailed deer, and alligators, among others. The zoo's mission is to provide a safe and naturalistic environment for the animals, while also promoting education and conservation efforts.
History of Bear Hollow Zoo
Bear Hollow Zoo was established in 1948, with the goal of providing a unique educational experience for the local community. Over the years, the zoo has undergone several renovations and expansions, including the addition of new animal exhibits and a playground for children. In 2011, the zoo underwent a major renovation, which included the construction of a new bear enclosure and a renovated reptile house. Today, Bear Hollow Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in Athens, with over 100,000 visitors per year.
Animal Exhibits
Bear Hollow Zoo features a variety of animal exhibits, each designed to mimic the natural habitats of the animals. The zoo’s black bear exhibit is one of the most popular, featuring a large viewing area where visitors can observe the bears up close. The zoo is also home to a bobcat exhibit, which features a large enclosure with plenty of space for the cats to roam. Other exhibits include a reptile house, featuring snakes, alligators, and turtles, as well as a bird aviary, with a variety of bird species from around the world.
| Animal Species | Number of Animals |
|---|---|
| Black Bears | 5 |
| Bobcats | 3 |
| White-tailed Deer | 10 |
| Alligators | 5 |
Conservation Efforts
Bear Hollow Zoo is committed to conservation efforts, both locally and globally. The zoo participates in several breeding programs for endangered species, including the black bear and the gopher tortoise. The zoo also offers educational programs for children and adults, focusing on topics such as wildlife conservation, animal behavior, and habitat preservation. In addition, the zoo partners with local organizations to support conservation efforts in the community, such as habitat restoration and wildlife monitoring.
Education Programs
Bear Hollow Zoo offers a variety of education programs for children and adults, including guided tours, animal encounters, and educational workshops. The zoo’s education programs focus on promoting an appreciation for wildlife and the importance of conservation. The zoo also offers a zoo camp program for children, which provides a unique opportunity for kids to learn about animals and conservation while having fun.
- Guided tours of the zoo
- Animal encounters and feeding demonstrations
- Educational workshops on topics such as wildlife conservation and animal behavior
- Zoo camp program for children
What are the zoo's hours of operation?
+The zoo is open daily from 9am to 5pm, with extended hours during the summer months.
How much does it cost to visit the zoo?
+Admission to the zoo is free, although donations are appreciated.
Can I bring my pet to the zoo?
+No, pets are not allowed in the zoo, with the exception of service animals.
Bear Hollow Zoo is a unique and educational attraction that provides a fun and interactive experience for visitors of all ages. With its emphasis on native species and conservation efforts, the zoo is an important resource for the local community and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife and conservation.
Future Plans and Developments
Bear Hollow Zoo is constantly evolving and improving, with several new exhibits and programs in the works. The zoo is currently planning a new exhibit featuring otters, which is expected to open in the near future. The zoo is also expanding its education programs, with a focus on providing more opportunities for children and adults to learn about wildlife and conservation. With its commitment to conservation and education, Bear Hollow Zoo is an important resource for the local community and a leader in the field of wildlife conservation.
Community Involvement
Bear Hollow Zoo is committed to community involvement and outreach, with several programs and events throughout the year. The zoo partners with local schools and organizations to provide educational programs and resources, and also offers volunteer opportunities for individuals who want to get involved. The zoo’s adopt-an-animal program allows individuals to support the care and feeding of the animals, while also receiving updates and information about the animals.
