Photo: N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
Zoo Expansion Set for March 2027
The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) has announced that the North Carolina Zoo will unveil its new Asia expansion on March 1, 2027. This significant addition marks the first major enhancement to the Zoo in over three decades, the last being the North America section introduced in 1994.
Governor Highlights Family Experience
Governor Josh Stein expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming expansion, reminiscing about family visits to the Zoo during his children’s youth. He noted that the new Asia habitat will elevate the experience for families in North Carolina, stating, “This world-class expansion will bring more visitors to our state, support local businesses, and foster state pride for generations to come.”
Focus on Education and Conservation
DNCR Secretary Pamela Cashwell emphasized the Zoo’s appeal, which attracts over a million visitors annually. She highlighted the Zoo’s unique combination of nature, art, history, and wildlife conservation as key factors in its success. Cashwell expressed her excitement for the enhanced educational programs that the Asia expansion will provide, aiming to offer more opportunities for North Carolinians to engage with this important state resource.
New Species and Innovative Habitats
The Asia section will span 12.5 acres and introduce nearly 50 new species to the Zoo. Among the notable inhabitants will be critically endangered Malayan tigers, Visayan warty pigs, white-cheeked gibbons, and Chinese alligators. Additionally, bird and reptile fans can look forward to observing a variety of colorful and rare species, such as Komodo dragons, demoiselle cranes, blue-crowned laughingthrush, king cobras, and crocodile monitors.
Director’s Vision for the Future
Zoo Director and CEO Dr. Mark Penning shared his anticipation for the new residents of the Zoo. He remarked, “We can’t wait for guests to meet these enchanting residents, learn from them, and discover ways to protect their wild habitats and cousins.” Penning described the Asia expansion as a pivotal moment in the Zoo’s 52-year history, highlighting the incorporation of new technology and the inclusion of over 6,000 new plants in the Zoo’s botanical garden, inviting guests to explore diverse pathways and ideas.
Source: N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Photo: N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
