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| Date opened | November 1, 2001 |
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| Location | Springfield, Missouri, USA |
| Number of species | 225 |
| Memberships | AZA |
| Website | http://www.wondersofwildlife.org |
The American National Fish and Wildlife Museum, doing business as Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium, also known as Wonders of Wildlife Zooquarium or just Wonders of Wildlife in Springfield, Missouri, showcases more than 225 species of live animals, fresh and saltwater aquariums, interactive displays and educational programs. The 92,000-square-foot (8,500 m2) facility, designed by Cambridge Seven Associates, opened on November 2, 2001.[1][2] The attraction closed in December 2007, with the announcement of a planned expansion that would have increased the square footage of the facility by 58 percent, at a cost of $25 million. Subsequently, museum representatives have announced a much more ambitious expansion, at a cost of about $80 million. They expect to open the Conservation Education Center by the end of December 2011, with the rest of the museum planned to be open by December 2012.[3]
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Wonders of Wildlife is a result of intensive lobbying campaign and financial support of John Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops. He campaigned and lobbied for the ballot initiative that funded the $52,000,000.00 cost of building the museum and the creation of a museum district to oversee the planning, design, and construction of the museum.[4] An agreement with the City of Springfield allows a portion of the city's hotel-motel tax to be used for capital projects.[5] This project also received $1.5 million in federal appropriations.[6]
The museum replicates the native Ozark habitat and serves as home to many Missouri wildlife species.
This area provides visitors with a view of Missouri pond life from underneath.[7]
The museum is available for hosting receptions, dances, and parties. It can accommodate 400 people in its upper and lower lobbies. Larger groups can rent the entire facility, and smaller groups can take advantage of the Conservation Library, Out to Sea Gallery, or Tropical Coast room.[7]
The "Out to Sea" exhibit features a 21-foot (6.4 m) deep, 225,000 US gallon aquarium. It houses sharks, rays, and a variety of other tropical fish.[8]
The museum will also house the "Archery Hall of Fame and Museum" and the Fred Bear Museum.[9]
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