Zoo Atlanta, a popular destination for families in Atlanta, has been in the news for two reasons: its giraffe calf gets a name and the venomous snake that escaped this weekend is still on the loose. However, Zoo officials say that Zoo Atlanta remains open and will operate regular hours.
“Zuri” was revealed on one of the largest cakes ever seen in Atlanta. Zoo Atlanta announced that the giraffe calf born to Glenda on July 13th has been named Zuri, following an online naming contest that generated more than 4,000 votes. The name, which means “gorgeous” in Swahili, was one of eight finalists and was submitted by TG Madison. The name was revealed in icing on a 16’x10’ cookie cake. Other highlights included an authentic African performance by Ballethnic Dance Company and African storytelling. Families can now see the newly named guest of honor this weekend, as she and her family are now on exhibit for the first time as a herd.
In other news, Zoo Atlanta officials still have not found the venomous tiger rattlesnake that escaped from the zoo last Friday. The female rattlesnake escaped quarantine last week, and a search of nearby Grant Park turned up empty. The 4 2’ long snake was part of a shipment of confiscated snakes sent to the zoo by the Department of Fish and Wildlife. Tiger rattlesnakes are normally found in the southwestern region of the US and eat mice, small mammals and lizards. They grow to be a little longer than 2’ and their venom is one of the most toxic of all rattlesnake venoms.
Zoo Atlanta officials say that the search will continue today. They believe that the snake may be in hiding in the same building from where it escaped. Zoo Atlanta will remain open this week.
Zoo Atlanta is located at 800 Cherokee Ave SE; Atlanta, GA. 30315. Mommy and Me programs are back by popular demand for children 2-3 years old and their favorite grownups. This exciting hands-on program allows you both to explore different toddler-friendly concepts all about animals. A 3-week series program and 1-day options are available. Each session includes a guided walk through part of the zoo to see animals, an up-close encounter with an education animal and playtime at discovery stations featuring crafts, story time and other great activities. Mommy and Me at Zoo Atlanta takes place on Tuesdays or Wednesdays at 10:30-11:30 a.m. Visit Zoo Atlanta.com for more information and costs.
Zoo Atlanta is open Monday-Friday from 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Rates are $19.99 for adults 12+, $14.99 for kids 3-11 and free for kids 2 and under. Senior citizens, active military and college students pay $15.99. Annual family memberships are available for $99 and include unlimited daytime admission for a full year, plus various discounts.
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Comments
I hope they catch that snake.
UPDATE: The venomous rattlesnake that has been missing from Zoo Atlanta for three days was found dead Monday morning on the front porch of a vacant house bordering Grant Park, according to the AJC.
SAfe to go the Zoo again. I'm sure all involved are relieved.
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