(Photo courtesy Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo)

The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo will open for the season on Saturday, April 25. This year mark’s the zoo’s 50th birthday, which will be celebrated all summer long with new exhibits and special events.

One exciting new thing for visitors to look for is baby Sumatran orangutan Asmara, who will make her public debut this season. Born in November, Asmara represents a critically endangered species on the brink of extinction.

“This little orangutan will help connect people to our important conservation work,” said Jim Anderson, zoo director. “Our guests will be able to watch her grow and develop all season long.”

Another highlight will be the second phase of the Australian Adventure renovation opening this season with The Reef, a completely redone aquarium exhibit featuring new themes, fish and a completely renovated 17,000 gallon coral reef tank.

Later this summer, Stingray Bay will bring two foot wide stingrays to the former Nocturnal Building in a 20,000 gallon pool that will allow guests a closer look at the popular aquatic species.

Guests will also be able to enjoy old favorites such as the Lion Drinking Fountain, Monkey Island and Croaky the Frog, all of which have been at the zoo since it opened July 3, 1965.

“The zoo was built by the community, and continues to be generously supported by our community,” said Anderson, noting that the zoo is a non-profit and receives no tax funding. “Our birthday gives us a chance to thank our members and friends for 50 years of support.”

Source: Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo