Residents of the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore are tidying their cages and smoothing unruly hair in anticipation of opening day.

The zoo will open its doors free of admission Saturday at 10 a.m., after closing for January and February, zoo spokeswoman Lainie Contreras said.

“We are hoping as many people as possible come out this weekend and take advantage of the free admission,” she said. “The staff is so excited to see people in the zoo, and I think some of the animals are, too. The chimpanzees are definitely looking forward to seeing guests.”

Last year’s free opening weekend drew record-breaking crowds of 13,500 visitors Saturday and 14,000 visitors Sunday. Admission is usually $10 to $15, though parking is free.

This story continues below
Advertisement

“This is one way that the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore has to give back to the community, and we are very much a part of the community. We want people to come to the zoo and experience what we have,” Contreras said.

dulman@baltimoreexaminer.com