COAL VALLEY, ILLINOIS (December 20, 2024) — As most are likely aware by now, Niabi Zoo experienced significant damage to facilities and infrastructure due to heavy snowfall in January 2024. Repairs and construction have taken place throughout the entire 2024 season. Major accomplishments include a completely new roof for the rhino barn, the replacement of the roof structure of the animal encounters exhibit, and the gutters were replaced on most buildings.
The endangered-species carousel canopy still needs to be replaced.
The greatest challenge has been the removal of the destroyed cat habitats and eagle exhibit including above-ground structures and below-ground infrastructure. Construction crews worked diligently on this task throughout the year. They have been able to pour the concrete piers that form the base of the columns that will stand atop them. They will continue construction through the winter as the weather allows installing the columns and steel mesh netting. If all goes well, the modernized eagle and cat exhibits will be ready for public viewing this coming spring.
The cost of repairs and construction to recover from the storm damage is approximately $2.5 million. Funding from the State of Illinois, Rock Island County, insurance, and donations from Quad Citizens so far covers approximately two-thirds of the expenses. Therefore, we are making a final plea to try to raise the last one-third of the costs of the recovery efforts.
Please consider making an end of year donation to help Niabi Zoo continue to provide the best possible care for our animals in the most structurally sound habitats that will withstand future weather threats.
Give a Gift of Zoo Classes
Join us for fun, interactive learning experiences that your child won't soon forget! Throughout our six classes, your child will have the opportunity to learn about a variety of the endangered species our Zookeepers care for, the threats facing them, and how we can help to save these species before it's too late.
Dates & Themes:
While each day is themed, each age level has a different curriculum.
Endangered Species Series:
January 25 — Amphibians & Reptiles
February 8 — Birds
February 22 — Carnivores
March 8 — Herbivores
March 22 — Primates
April 5 — Pollinators
Class Times:
Ages 4-5* 10–11AM *Requires an adult to attend with your child
Ages 6-9 12–1:30PM
Ages 10-13 2:30–4PM
Cost
Become a Zoo Member before registering and save 20% on Zoo Classes! Member discount is given at the end of the registration process.
Each Class:
Ages 4-5 Zoo Member = $12 Non-member = $15
Ages 6-9 Zoo Member = $16 Non-member = $20
Ages 10-13 Zoo Member = $16 Non-member = $20
Get the sixpack and receive a 10% discount
Ages 4-5 Zoo Member = $72-10%=$64.80 Non-member = $90-10%=$81
Ages 6-9 Zoo Member = $96-10%=$86.40 Non-member = $120-10%=$108
Ages 10-13 Zoo Member = $96-10%=$86.40 Non-member = $120-10%=$108
* No refunds on missed classes
Age Appropriate
Each Zoo Class curriculum is designed to be age appropriate to meet the attention, interests, and developmental needs of each age range, therefore it is important that the age guidelines are followed.
*For ages 4-5, a parent/guardian is required to attend with the child to promote learning together.
