Why You Should Vote For ZooTampa For Best Zoo In The Country
Animal lovers! ZooTampa is battling for the “Best Zoo” in the country and “Best Zoo Exhibit.” USA Today has nominated our local zoo out of 19 other zoos in the country. They’re looking for the best zoo that excels in fields of animal care and enrichment while also facilitating meaningful interactions between animals and human visitors. Here’s why you should vote for our favorite, ZooTampa.
ZooTampa’s mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and care for animals. They also aim to create exceptional personalized experiences that connect people with wildlife and each other in fun, immersive ways. The David A Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center, has helped with the rescue, rehabilitation and release of more than 500 sick, injured and orphaned manatees.
![Why You Should Vote For ZooTampa For Best Zoo In The Country](https://wild941.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/79/2023/02/featured-images-7-1024x774.jpg)
Photo courtesy of ZooTampa
Not only has ZooTampa done incredible work for years, but they’re constantly striving to be better. Recently the zoo announced a huge expansion that aims to create more engaging educational opportunities and animal interactions. Some exhibits are even expected to be done sometime in 2023.
Right now, ZooTampa currently sits at number #6 in the standings of Best Zoo in the country. But we think Champa Bay can get it to #1 where it belongs. Voting ends on Monday, March 6, and you’re able to vote once per day.
[Source: ZooTampa Press Release]
What ZooTampa Could Look Like After Their $125 Million Expansion
There are some BIG changes coming to ZooTampa in Lowry Park. This morning, ZooTampa announced its expansion plan to add more attractions and expand the park all the way to the Hillsborough River. This multi-year vision will add new immersive wildlife experiences, dining, entertainment district and more. The project is expected to cost $125 million and will take about 20 years to complete.
ZooTampa does some incredible conservation work. Mostly known for the David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center, which is the first of its kind. Their team has treated over 400 manatees and has reintroduced 230 of them into Florida waters. One of the first projects to be completed in the new expansion is an expanded manatee rehab facility, which is expected to debut in 2026.
In a press release from ZooTampa, President and CEO Joe Couceiro said: “As ZooTampa embarks on an even more extraordinary future, we remain committed to transforming with the resilient Tampa Bay community.”
Some changes have already unveiled. The new immersive Florida Wilds area features expanded habitats for endangered and threatened native species
Here’s what ZooTampa could look like after their expansion.
Jen was born and raised in the Tampa Bay area. She’s been with Beasley Media Group since 2022. In her spare time, you can find her at Tampa Bay Lightning games, Tampa Bay breweries, or the beach. Catch up on Jen’s content about the highest-rated restaurants/bars in Tampa, things-to-do around the area, and upcoming concerts.