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| Date opened | 1900[1] |
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| Location | Norfolk, Virginia, USA |
| Land area | 53 acres (21 ha)[2] |
| Number of animals | 350[2] |
| Number of species | 115[2] |
| Memberships | AZA[3] |
| Website | www.virginiazoo.org |
The Virginia Zoological Park is a 53-acre (21 ha) zoo located adjacent to Lafayette Park in Norfolk, Virginia, USA. The zoo opened in 1900, and was accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) in 1987.
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In 1892, the City of Norfolk purchases the 65 acres (26 ha) that is currently occupied by Lafayette Park. In 1900, the park begins acquiring animals to exhibit, and by 1901 its collection exceeds 200 animals including mammals, birds and reptiles.[1]
In 1974, the animal area is fenced off from the city park and named Lafayette Zoological Park. Though fenced off, residents of the nearby LaValette Street can see the zoo's elephants from their homes. Newcomers, unfamiliar with the fact that a zoo is in the location, sometimes called the police at the sight of elephants.[4] Between 1974 and 1980, most of the zoo's old exhibits are renovated.[1]
In 1974 the Friends of the Zoo is established to act as a support organization for the development of the zoo. In 1989 it is renamed as the Virginia Zoological Society and established as a non-profit organization.[1]
In 1985, Lafayette Zoological Park is renamed the Virginia Zoological Park at Norfolk (commonly known as the Virginia Zoo). In 1987, the zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).[1]
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.
This exhibit was opened in 2011. It features animals from Asia, and nearly doubles the number of large animals at the zoo. Among the animals in this exhibit are Malayan tigers, Asian small-clawed otters, orangutans, siamangs, Northern white-cheeked gibbons, Malayan tapirs, binturongs rhinoceros hornbills, fairy-bluebirds, azure-winged magpies, and chestnut-breasted malkoha. The exhibit includes a raised boardwalk over the "Asian forest", and a cave with views into the tier and orangutan exhibits. Another viewing area allows underwater views of the otters and tigers.[2]
Media related to [//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Virginia_Zoological_Park Virginia Zoological Park] at Wikimedia Commons
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