The Zoological Society of Milwaukee is thrilled to be in the final fundraising stretch for Adventure Africa inside the Milwaukee County Zoo. Almost exactly four years ago the Society publicly announced its commitment to help fund the new animal habitats. Adventure Africa is the largest physical change to the Zoo since its opening in 1961, transforming 25% of the developed footprint. With a goal to raise $27 million, the Society has $1.25 million left and is aiming to complete the fundraising by the end of the year.
Adventure Africa was a three-stage plan to create a new habitat for the Zoo’s elephants, African hoofstock, hippos and rhinos. The elephant and African mixed-species yard opened in 2019. The elephant home is much larger and also includes a giant indoor habitat that allows guests inside year-round.
The hippo habitat opened on time and on budget in 2020. Milwaukee is one of only a dozen zoos with an underwater viewing feature. Happy the hippo can be seen sleeping underwater or gliding along the bottom with only a pane of glass separating the giant animal and the guest.
Today the design process for the new rhino home is underway. When construction is completed, guests will be able to see the rhinos and hippos inside throughout the year, similar to the elephant habitat. Construction is expected to start next year and also includes plans for a new central pathway through the Zoo.
The Capital Campaign is possible because of the strong partnership between Milwaukee County and the Zoological Society, which historically has shared the cost of major projects. Thanks to the hundreds of donors, including foundations, corporations and Zoo guests, the final stretch is here. But, the Society now needs to bring it home. To help reach our goal, the Society is asking people to visit win2wild.com and consider donating. Anyone who donates more than $100 will have their name displayed on a digital board within Adventure Africa.
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About the Zoological Society of Milwaukee:
The mission of the Zoological Society of Milwaukee is to conserve wildlife and endangered species, educate people about the importance of wildlife and the environment, and support the Milwaukee County Zoo.