Dear Friends,
As we prepare to celebrate our 50th year of fun, wonder, conservation, and care in 2019, we’re delighted to report that there’s
been plenty to celebrate during our 49th year too. Thanks to the amazing support of our members, donors, friends, docents, and
volunteers, this past year has turned out to be a wonderful and worthy prelude.
Over the past year, we’ve elevated our guest experience by making some key improvements on the ground. As our region’s
#1 nonprofit attraction, the Louisville Zoo is here for everyone to enjoy, which is why we’re continuing to expand accessibility
through a range of promotions like Wild Winter Days, the Cultural Pass, and sponsored discounts. At the same time, we’re raising
funds to institute a Zoo-wide sensory processing and inclusion program. We’ve also created an array of educational opportunities,
including a new preschool pilot program and a valuable teacher classroom resource initiative. Construction on vital facilities
improvements — $8.9 million worth — began this past year, including a new snow leopard habitat and an African primate exhibit.
We’ve also celebrated some wonderful additions to our Zoo family this year. As always, our new arrivals and births helped make
the Zoo experience that much more wondrous. Our new male addax, Laird, arrived to help with continued conservation of this
critically endangered species, one that has been a part of the Zoo since our inception. An addax calf was born in August to Laird
and his mate, Patella. With much excitement and joy, we’ve also announced an elephant pregnancy and will be eagerly awaiting the
arrival of an African elephant calf in summer 2019.
These are but a few of the important, exciting, and even life-affirming things you’ll find out about in our 2018 Yearbook. So, before
launching headlong into our phenomenal 50th, let’s take time to celebrate our fabulous 49th year at the Louisville Zoo — with
special admiration and gratitude for those who make it all happen. Contributions to our Zoo come in many forms, and it takes all
kinds for us to be successful. Without the tireless dedication of our staff, volunteers and docents, or the generous support of our
members and donors, we wouldn’t be as great as we are. Thank you. And now — here’s to 49!
JOHN WALCZAK
Director, Louisville Zoo
2
3