Entry & Benson Predator Ridge

To completely revitalize the entry experience, this project features two timber-framed entry structures containing administrative offices, guest services and retail. This complex flanks a ¾ acre entry plaza with ticketing and an entry gating. The plaza, themed as savanna gaming trails, leads the visitor from the entry drop-off through the main area to small plaza exhibits showcasing animals of the Samburu region of East Africa. The Samburu theme carries through to a wonderful panorama of a simulated African savanna that lies before the visitor upon entering the Zoo gateway. Visitors view a pride of lions, cape hunting dogs, and hyenas in two ¼ acre habitats. A 3,000 SF interpretive center allows for nose-to-nose viewing of these magnificent animals while learning about the biology and conservation of these species.

Animal care and management facilities include an 8,000 SF lion and predator holding building with generous holding and keeper work areas, training and management zones, and an isolation and birthing suite. At two “behind the scenes” stations keepers can interact with the animals displaying best care and management practices, training and appropriate species behavior in full view of the visitors.