Virginia Zoological Park

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Virginia Zoological Park
Location	Norfolk, Virginia, USA
Accreditations/ Memberships	AZA
Website

The Virginia Zoological Park is a zoo located in Norfolk, Virginia, USA.

In 1892, the City of Norfolk purchases 65 acres of land that is currently occupied by Lafayette Park. In 1900, the Zoo officially opens, as Lafayette Park begins acquiring zoological specimens on exhibit. By 1901, the zoo's animal collection exceeds 200 animals including mammals, birds and reptiles.

In 1974, the animal area is fenced off from the city park and named Lafayette Zoological Park. In 1985, Lafayette Zoological Park is renamed the Virginia Zoological Park at Norfolk (commonly known as the Virginia Zoo). In 1987, the Virginia Zoological Park achieves accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

In 1992, the Master Plan is adopted by City of Norfolk and Virginia Zoological Society. Plan includes zoogeographic vision of five continent expansion as well as erection of new Education Complex and Visitor Center. Plan includes exhibits of Africa, North America, Australia, South America and Asia.

• 1999 - Part I of Phase I opens - including Gelada baboon habitat and Xaxaba African village and 100th Anniversary of Virginia Zoo and Lafayette Park

• 2001 - Design for Master Plan Phase II: North America exhibit begins

• 2002 - Part II of Phase I opens: African Okavango Delta exhibit, thus completing Phase I of the Master Plan

• 2004 - Part I of Phase II opens: Prairie dog habitat.

• April 2010 - Part III of Phase III opens: Gorilla habitat.

• Early May 2010 - Part IV of Phase III opens: Deer Habitat.

• May 2010 - Part II of Phase II opens: Tapir habitat.

• June 2010 - Part III of Phase II opens: Penguin habitat.

• July 2010 - Part I of Phase III opens: Hippopotamus habitat.

• August 2010 - Part II of Phase III opens: Bear Habitat.

African Elephants	Lion	Lioness	Tiger
Zebra	Ostrich

[edit] External links

• http://www.virginiazoo.org/

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