Coming Exhibits
Watch us Grow . . .Trail of the Tiger
A rich history since 1900 (or 1901, depending on who you ask).
Lafayette Park began its acquisition of animals in 1900, but did not officially become the Lafayette Zoological Park until 1901 when deemed a city park by the City of Norfolk. Today, the Virginia Zoo spans 53 acres adjacent to Lafayette Park and is bordered by the Lafayette River. Zoo “residents” from around the world include more than 350 animals representing 115 different species. The Lafayette Zoological Park was accredited in 1974 and continues to adhere to the high standards set by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). In 1985, the park became the Virginia Zoological Park – now called the Virginia Zoo.
A unique partnership between the City of Norfolk and the Virginia Zoological Society.
Together, these two entities share the responsibility of the Virginia Zoo. The Zoological Society provides key support components in educational programming, membership development, marketing, fundraising, and special events. The City serves the operational needs of the Zoo including as employer of the Zoo staff responsible for animal care, Zoo grounds and maintenance and customer service.
A new Master Plan transforms the Zoo into a dynamic attraction with everyday appeal.
Building on the concept of giving visitors a “up-close-and-personal” look at wildlife, a new master plan is underway that will transform the Virginia Zoo into one of the most dynamic zoos in the country. It’s an exciting time to be a part of the Virginia Zoo.
Phase One – Trail of the Tiger.
Featuring animals from Asia - from the islands of Southeast Asia north to China & west through India, including:
- Greater and lesser apes: Orangutans, siamangs and gibbons
- Carnivores: Malayan Tigers, Asian small clawed otters and possibly Arboreal Sun bears.
- Forest Dwellers: Malayan tapirs (large relatives of the horse), Cassowaries (large flightless birds), Anoa (miniature buffalo) and giant hornbill (tree dwelling bird species).
- Reptiles: Rhinoceros iguanas and giant water monitors
Special features:
- Underwater viewing of tigers and otters.
- “Zero depth” water features (2) for Zoo visitors to play in.
- Tree dwelling bear species
- Brachiating gibbons and siamang (exceptionally vocal primates!)
- 60’ foot viewing window into orangutan habitat
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