City of Hutchinson, Kansas | Hutchinson Zoo

City of Hutchinson, Kansas | Hutchinson Zoo
6 Emerson Loop East
Hutchinson, KS 67501

(620) 694-2693

About the Zoo
AZA Accreditation
The Hutchinson Zoo is AZA accreditated. What does being accreditated mean? AZA, "accreditation" means official recognition and approval of a zoo or aquarium by a group of experts. These experts, called the AZA Accreditation Commission, carefully examine each zoo or aquarium that applies for AZA membership. Only those zoos and aquariums that meet their high standards can become members of AZA. AZA accredited zoos and aquariums are constantly evolving and standards are continuously being raised. Each zoo or aquarium must keep up with these changes to remain AZA accredited. And to prove it, they must go through the entire accreditation process every five years. AZA believes that nothing is more important than assuring the highest standards of animal care.

History
Do you know how old the Hutchinson Zoo is? In 1985 the Friends of the Zoo organization was formed and hosted it's first benefit auction. The following year on May 23, the gates of the Hutchinson Zoo opened to the public. Over the next several years the zoo expanded by leaps and bounds adding a number of new exhibits, special events and education programs. In 1991 the zoo began the rehabilitation program, rehabilitating thirteen animals. In 2004, the zoo rehabilitated 655 animals. Continuing to grow, in 1997, the zoo gained accreditation with the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA). The following year, the zoo became the first in Kansas to exhibit the most highly endangered species in North America, the Black-Footed Ferret. In 1999, the zoo welcomed the birth of Cotton-Top Tamarin twins. The Cotton-Top Tamarins are part of the Species Survival Program (SSP). The SSP, developed by the AZA, is a national conservation effort to protect and reintroduce endangered species. In early September of 2002 the zoo was re-granted accreditation for the next five years. The grand opening of the Visitor Center took place the following month, and the year came to an end with the establishment of the Hutchinson Zoo website.

Master Plan
Highlights and Information
Master Plan Map

Mission Statement
The Hutchinson Zoo serves as a quality recreational, educational and animal rehabilitation facility to provide an atmosphere where nature's gifts, both plant and animal can be appreciated. To ever expand as an educational resource on behalf of wildlife, and provide and opportunity for young and old alike to understand better the creatures that share, with us, Kansas and the rest of the world. To view each creature around us, not only on its own merit, but also as part of a much larger picture with interlocking pieces.

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