My first document

2022 Annual ReVIEW San Antonio Zoo

HISTORY, AND VISION

Vision Securing a future for wildlife

Mission

Inspire people to love, engage with, act for, and protect animals and the places they live through sharing our passion for animal care, education, and conservation.

GLOBAL IMPACT

Antonio Zoological Society

SUPPORTS WILDLIFE CONSERVATION ON 6 CONTINENTS

SUPPORTED MORE THAN

245 CONSERVATION PROJECTS

San

Dear Friends of San Antonio Zoo,

2022 was one of the most dynamic years in our 108-year history, and I am proud to report that our vision of securing a future for wildlife has never been stronger. Our dedicated Zoo Crew and volunteers continue to work diligently to maintain and improve the zoo experience, amenities, habitats and programming while focusing on animal care, conservation, and of course, educating our visitors and community.

We were once again named Best Zoo in Texas as well as #2 Zoo in the United States, receiving great recognition for San Antonio Zoo and its education, conservation, and animal welfare excellence! Our conservation initiatives, aimed at protecting wildlife, had major successes both locally and around the world, with more animals released into the wild than ever before.

In addition to these achievements, the Will Smith Zoo School operated at full capacity, welcoming students from over 60 different zip codes and our Education Center broke every record on the books welcoming over 1,400 campers and 100,000 field trip participants (45% of those schools being Title 1).

In 2022, we saw a wonderful increase in engagement due to our new and improved spaces, special events, partnerships, and educational programs. We welcomed a brand-new Union Pacific Mini Train, opened Discovery PLAYce - an indoor play space for 0–5-yearolds, beautifully reimagined the F.C. Hixon Bird House, added Project Selva 4D Theater and reinvested into multiple employee areas. The community joined us for dozens of new births and exciting original events, like ZOOFEST presented by Bud Light, the Education 2 Conservation Celebration Luncheon, and Planet Earth: Deep Sea Adventures.

Our capital campaign, Generation Zoo, saw record donations to bring a new entrance, the return of gorillas to San Antonio and more. We continue to raise funds for this important mission endeavor.

We look forward to sharing even more exciting news with you in 2023 as we continue our mission of providing an exemplary and educational zoo experience for all. Thank you for your ongoing support - together, let’s continue to grow San Antonio Zoo and inspire the next generation of conservationists here in Texas and around the world!

On behalf of myself, our hundreds of employees, hundreds of volunteers and millions of visitors, I would like to thank each of you for your support of San Antonio Zoo, our vision, our mission and our future.

Sincerely,

Tim Morrow, President & CEO of San Antonio Zoo

2022 Board of Directors

Executive Committee

Frank Z. Ruttenberg

William A. Freed

Sara Stumberg Walker

Todd L. Brockwell

C. Collins Andy Anderson III, DVM

Bobby J. Barrera

Marcus Barrett IV

Chris Bathie

Victoria Beavers

Becky Canavan

Charles H. Clines

Ann Allen Cross, DVM, MS

Tom Cury

Kelly S. Daniell

Helen Loring Dear

Louis R. DiSabato**

Tracee Feik

Drew Greller, VMD, DACVO

Valerie Guenther*

Cosmo M. Guido

Timothy M. Havens

Annita Hereford-Crump

Norb Cole

Mary Rogers Barrett

Camille L. Denton

Brandon E. Grossman

Board of Directors

Justin Hill

George S. “Timo” Hixon

Laura Berg Hodge

Meredith Howard

George Hutchinson, PhD

Mark M. Johnson

Kathleen R. Kennedy

Clayton Killinger

Roby Latimer

Jane H. Macon

Ryan Malitz

William T. Maloy

Wilbur L. Matthews II

L. Lowry Mays+

Red McCombs***

J. Stephen McCusker**

Robert Miggins

Ashwin Nathan

James Nester

Kay Kay O’Brien

Diana Plummer

Maryanne Guido

Tony Parker

Enzo Pellegrino

Ashley Quintanilla

Cameron Ryan Redding

Allison K. Reyes

Jayme Russell

Kelly A. Russell

Jim Satel

Carol Severyn

Gary Simmons

Brian C. Steward

John Sun

Tarah Sykes

Thomas C. Thill

Robert P. Thomas, MD

Mark L. Thornton, MD

Jon Turner

Gilbert F. Vazquez

Alice B. Viroslav, MD

Edwin “Eli” J. Whitney, MD

*Directors Emeriti

**Executive Directors Emeriti

***Honorary Directors

4 BILLION IN REACH

36 MILLION IN ENGAGEMENT

GREW OVERALL FOLLOWING ACROSS PLATFORMS BY 1.2 MILLION #2 TIKTOK VIDEO OF JUNE 2022

More 2022 news highlights here!

2.3 BILLION IN VIEWS

SOCIAL VIDEOS FEATURED IN: _ Yahoo News

_ CNN

_ Fox News

_ New York Post _ The Independent _ USA Today _ Newsweek _ ABC _ People Magazine

Year-End Financials

Awards & Accolades

Best Zoo in Texas

The Texas Travel Awards named San Antonio Zoo as the Best Zoo in Texas, just months after international publication Blooloop named the zoo #1 in Texas and #2 in the U.S. for its animal welfare, education, and conservation.

In 2019 Reader’s Digest also named San Antonio Zoo the Best In Texas. Texas Travel Awards spotlight the most exciting, innovative, and inviting places around the state. With the additions of the new realm NEOTROPICA, a new train, the Project Selva 4D Theater, the F.C. Hixon Bird House, and the launch of the summer attraction Planet Earth: Deep Sea Adventures; San Antonio Zoo is a must for all locals and travelers’ itinerary.

San Antonio Zoo Named Top 2 Zoo in the U.S.

Recognized for Conservation, Animal Welfare & Education

San Antonio Zoo came in at #4 in Blooloops Top 17 Zoos & Aquariums in the country. This recognition highlights San Antonio Zoo’s awardwinning work in conservation, animal welfare, and education locally and around the world. According to the publication, this positions San Antonio Zoo as the #2 zoo in the country, behind only Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington D.C., and positions San Antonio Zoo as #1 in Texas. Blooloop is the world’s most-read news source for visitor attractions professionals and joins several others in recognizing San Antonio Zoo as an industry-leading organization. In the last five years, San Antonio Zoo has been named Best Zoo in Texas (Readers Digest), Top 10 Sightseeing Tickets Sold in World (TripAdvisor), Best Family Attraction (San Antonio Current), Best Forward Thinkers (San Antonio Magazine), and most recently, Readers Choice for Best Local Tourist Attraction along with the River Walk and Pearl Brewery (Express-News).

San Antonio Zoo’s Tim Morrow & Dr. Tarah

Hadley named Top 50 Zoo & Aquarium Influencer List

San Antonio Zoo secured two spots in the inaugural 50 Zoo & Aquarium Influencer List published by Blooloop - the world’s most-read news source for visitor attractions professionals. President & CEO Tim Morrow and Assistant Director of Veterinary Care Dr. Tarah Hadley made the international list recognizing industry leaders whose work has inspired others, affected real change, and created groundbreaking initiatives.

San Antonio Zoo Once Again Achieves

American Humane Certification™ for Excellence in Animal Welfare

American Humane, the country’s first national humane organization and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare practices, announced that San Antonio Zoo has once again earned an American Humane Certified™ seal. This certification confirms excellence in animal health, housing, positive social interactions with animal groups and handlers, as well as stimulating living environments. This rigorous third-party audit of San Antonio Zoo’s animal welfare practices extends its certification term until February 2026. San Antonio Zoo was the first zoological facility in the world to be accredited and certified by Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Zoological Association of America, and American Humane.

San Antonio Zoo Mobilizes to Impact Zone in Florida to Help with Hurricane Ian Relief

San Antonio Zoo mobilized a support unit last October to the central impact zone of Hurricane Ian in Punta Gorda, Florida, as part of the Zoological Disaster Response, Rescue, and Recovery (ZDR3). ZDR3 was established after San Antonio Zoo led a statewide effort to assist Houston’s Downtown Aquarium and Texas Zoo in Victoria during Hurricane Harvey. Now, ZDR3 utilizes network facilities, including San Antonio Zoo, for deployment once needs in the region are identified and appropriate access permissions are granted. San Antonio Zoo has one of ZDR3’s largest and most experienced deployment units, most recently mobilizing to Louisiana after Hurricane Laura. The zoo sent leadership, an electrician, a welder, and additional multi-trade individuals to assist in clearing debris, restoring power, and fixing facilities and habitats. This support mission was made possible with gas cards donated by Valero Energy, a vehicle provided by Ancira Auto Group, and a generator donated to the zoo by HOLT CAT San Antonio.

San Antonio Zoo & H-E-B Celebrate Texas Teachers with Teacher Appreciation Month

San Antonio Zoo’s vision of securing a future for wildlife would not be possible without the support of our teachers, classrooms, and future conservationists. Teachers inspire a love for learning, so we partnered with H-E-B to celebrate them all month in August. Texas teachers received a free Standard Admission ticket to San Antonio Zoo and 50% off Standard Admission for up to four guests on their visit.

Dia de los Muertos Ofrenda at San Antonio Zoo

Guests were invited to join in remembering and honoring our community’s animals that have crossed the rainbow bridge with a Dia de los Muertos ofrenda in Zootenial Plaza on November 1 and 2. The ofrenda paid homage to San Antonio’s animal community with photos and memories from guests and Zoo Crew. 2022 was the first year that San Antonio Zoo created a community altar as part of Dia de los Muertos. Guests were welcomed to bring photos of their pets and contribute to the ofrenda.

World Teachers’ Day

Developed by UNESCO in partnership with UNICEF, the International Labor Organization, and Education International, World Teachers’ Day is celebrated annually on October 5. World Teachers’ Day provides an opportunity to celebrate the teaching profession worldwide, take stock of achievements, and draw attention to the voices of teachers - who are at the heart of efforts to attain the global education target of leaving no one behind. In support of Texas Teachers, San Antonio Zoo lit up its parking garage in light blue and offered 50% off an Any Day Ticket for Texas Teachers. As a bonus, teachers enjoyed Zoo Boo! presented by Valero Benefit for Children, a non-scary daytime Halloween event

San Antonio Zoo Donates

1,000 Tickets to Active & Retired Military To ZOOFEST

San Antonio Zoo donated 1,000 tickets worth $40,000 for the ZOOFEST music festival, presented by Bud Light, to active and retired service members in Military City, USA. A deep appreciation for the military prompted the donation from the 108-year-old zoo for nearly 300 years of consistent military presence and service in San Antonio, Texas. The music festival at the Sunken Garden Theater brought together the last 100 years of music genres in San Antonio, combining rock-n-roll, Latin, and country. The headliners were Josh Abbott Band, AB Quintanilla & Kumbia All Starz, and Spin Doctors. The General Admission tickets were available for any active duty, retired, or veteran military members, national guard, and reserves at the Lackland, Fort Sam Houston, and Randolph ITT Offices. No federal endorsement was part of San Antonio Zoo’s donation.

Day of the Military Child

Free Admission for Military Children

April was the Month of the Military Child, and San Antonio Zoo honored military children with FREE zoo admission. In addition, up to four immediate family members received 50% off standard admission. During the Month of the Military Child, the Department of Defense uses purple to represent all services in the military community. Therefore, we encouraged guests to wear purple to honor and thank the military children of our service members and veterans.

San Antonio Zoo Raises Eyebrows with New Jaguar, Frida

Last April, San Antonio Zoo welcomed a two-year-old female jaguar named Frida. Animal Care staff and zoo crew were incredibly excited to have Frida as a part of their San Antonio Zoo family. Her new home in NEOTROPICA was recently renovated and expanded. Frida was transferred from Memphis Zoo to San Antonio Zoo as part of the Association of Zoos & Aquarium’s (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) in hopes she will eventually breed with the zoo’s male jaguar, B’alam.

Center

for Conservation

& Research

at San Antonio Zoo Releases Texas Horned Lizards into the WILD

The Center for Conservation & Research (CCR) at San Antonio Zoo released 50 zoo-hatched Texas Horned Lizards (horny toads) into the wild. Lead veterinarian Dr. Rob Coke performed a health inspection before the young lizards were introduced to their new home. While all the horny toads released hatched last summer, a clutch of them were born on June 18, 2022: Texas Horned Lizard Day. The release into the wild is a tremendous step forward for San Antonio Zoo’s Texas Horned Lizard Reintroduction Project, which will bolster the survival of their species here in South Texas.

Saving the Japanese Giant Salamander from 6,500 Miles Away

The Japanese Giant Salamander (JGS) is one of the largest amphibian species on earth and has an ancient lineage, with museum specimens exceeding five feet in total length. Only found in a few mountain streams in Japan, JGS are classified as “near-threatened,” with populations declining and many challenges in its native habitat. Many dams built along Japan’s mountain streams and rivers have restricted JGSs from freely roaming, causing subpopulations to be isolated above and below the dam areas. This bottlenecking has reduced the natural chances the JGS population has to survive through time.

The Center for Conservation & Research at San Antonio Zoo (CCR) founded the JGS project in 2016. Dr. Dante Fenolio, Vice President of CCR at San Antonio Zoo, has been researching in Japan since 2006 alongside biologists from the region and Bucknell University in Pennsylvania. The goal is to reconnect JGS populations isolated by these dams. With the strategic installation of salamander ladders, the project will allow the isolated populations to reconnect despite the separation of the dam.

San Antonio Zoo celebrates two baby booms in 2022

San Antonio Zoo celebrated Mother’s Day weekend with dozens of new mothers and babies joining the herd. And, as kids headed off to school in August, San Antonio Zoo welcomed dozens more in a back-to-school baby boom! Our baby boom is a testament to the world-class animal care our team provides. The zoo celebrates all new births; however, some are even more meaningful to securing a future for wildlife due to their conservation status in the wild. San Antonio Zoo has welcomed crested couas, scaly-breasted lorikeets, curl-crested aracaris, fairy bluebirds, Eastern Pilbarra spiny-tailed skinks, Yunnan mountain rat snakes, West African crowned cranes (vulnerable), Malaysian giant pond turtles (critically endangered), lemur leaf frogs (critically endangered), pinstripe damba cichlids (critically endangered), San Marcos redtail splitfins (critically endangered), green mantella tadpoles (endangered), and the popular psychedelic rock geckos (endangered).

San Antonio Zoo Featured in Conservation Documentary “Deep in the Heart”

Coming off the heels of American Humane’s documentary “Escape From Extinction,” which highlights San Antonio Zoo’s role in bringing whooping cranes back from the brink, the zoo has announced its inclusion in a feature-length documentary, “Deep in the Heart.” Deep in the Heart is a visually stunning celebration of Texas’ diverse landscapes and remarkable wildlife found nowhere else. Narrated by Matthew McConaughey, the film aims to conserve our remaining wild places, show the connectivity of water and wildlife, and recognize Texas’ conservation importance on a continental scale. Deep in the Heart features endangered subterranean species at the Center for Conservation & Research at San Antonio Zoo (CCR)

The Texas blind salamander and Mexican blindcat were featured in the film and are endangered and at risk of extinction. CCR, at San Antonio Zoo, in partnership with Edwards Aquifer Authority, has a series of labs specially designed to keep subterranean wildlife safe and healthy, allowing the film crew to capture the rare footage for the documentary.

The zoo hosted an outdoor screening of the documentary for donors and supporters of CCR for its premiere.

San Antonio’s First-Ever Corpse Flower Bloom Watch

In early 2022, the corpse flower was gifted to the Center for Conservation & Research at San Antonio Zoo by The Huntington in California. The corpse flower is most famously known for the powerful rotting flesh odor it releases – hence its name, corpse flower. The endangered plant is native to the rainforests of Sumatra in Indonesia and can take more than ten years to bloom for the first time. This was the first known instance of a corpse flower blooming in San Antonio.

San Antonio Zoo moved the corpse flower for public viewing near the ‘Back From The Brink’ Whooping Crane habitat and invited guests to view this plant bloom during a “bloom watch” until its peak blossom window was up. While it ultimately did not bloom, it provided an educational opportunity for the guests and viewers who followed the process of the endangered plant. The corpse flower remains alive and can bloom again in the coming decade.

“These plants are very delicate and typically give us signs when they are ready to blossom,” said Dr. Dante Fenolio, VP of Conservation & Research at San Antonio Zoo. “Once we see those indicators, we have around 24 hours until its incredible and rare reveal!”

The corpse flower can grow up to 8 feet tall and generate its own heat, allowing the stench to travel even further. The powerful scent is produced by more than 30 chemicals and attracts carrion beetles and flesh flies who pollinate the flower. Fewer than 1,000 corpse flowers are estimated to remain in the wild, with a sharp decline in the last century.

San Antonio Zoo Sends More Than 18k Endangered Puerto Rican Crested Toad Tadpoles to Puerto Rico, Making Groundbreaking Record

The Herpetology team at San Antonio Zoo sent 18,064 tadpoles to be released into the wild in Los Conventos, Guayanilla, Puerto Rico. This year’s release surpassed last year’s record of 5,000 tadpoles, making 2022 a record year for the endangered species. Once believed to be extinct, Puerto Rican Crested Toads have only one remaining population, fluctuating between 1,000 and 3,000 adult toads in the Guanica National Forest of southern Puerto Rico. The Puerto Rican Crested Toad Conservancy (PRCTC) works to increase that population by conducting island-wide education outreach, protection, and restoration of existing habitats, new ponds to support multiple self-sustaining metapopulations, and now reintroducing tadpoles back into their native Puerto Rican environment with the help of San Antonio Zoo.

Swipe Right… or Left, Valentine’s Day with San Antonio Zoo

We aren’t lion, we have something for everyone! We think you’ll toad’ally love it!

The third annual Cry Me a Cockroach Fundraiser allowed guests to name a cockroach, rodent, or veggie after an ex and have it fed to a San Antonio Zoo animal. This fundraiser is a perfect way to rid that negative energy and contribute to securing a future for wildlife. The cockroaches used and humanely pre-frozen rodents are already part of the animals’ typical diets. These cockroaches and rats are the unsung heroes of the food chain. Proceeds from the Cry Me a Cockroach Fundraiser will help San Antonio Zoo continue to secure a future for wildlife.

The singles event – Meet Your Next Ex was a fun night of specialty drinks, wild speed dating, and amazing animal interactions. This event is the perfect girls or guys Night out where you can dance the night away at Club Wild Thingz, where the music is always roaring.

Those hippo-ly-in-love had the opportunity to wine and dine with San Antonio Zoo’s resident hippos, Timothy and Uma, at the Wild at Heart Dining Experience. Participants were able to choose from two brunch buffets on Sunday, February 13th or enjoy an elaborate dinner on Valentine’s Day. Each experience offered a VIP option to make your date extra special.

San Antonio Zoo Hosted 1st Annual Conservation Luncheon

Education 2 Conservation Celebration

Luncheon with Jeff Corwin

San Antonio Zoo announced the 2022 Conservation of the Year award at its 1st annual Education 2 Conservation Celebration Luncheon. The Wuest family, whose legacy includes the discovery and operations of Natural Bridge Caverns, received the award for their extraordinary commitment to conservation, particularly around subterranean species and their habitats.

Jeff Corwin was the Keynote Speaker during a seated lunch on the Rhino Deck, where guests enjoyed his tales of his wild journeys from around the world.

FESTIVAL DE ANIMALES

San Antonio Zoo’s Fiesta celebración of the animals was a WILD time with visits from Fiesta Royalty, a culinary tour of the tastes of Latin America, a parade of new specialty cocktails, and musical performances throughout the zoo. Guests enjoyed exceptional food and beverages curated by the new executive chef, Craig Mears, with options like ice-cold margaritas, micheladas, smoked pork tostadas, and more. This event highlighted animals that are native to South and Central America, as well as the zoo’s conservation efforts in those areas. Festival de Animales was included with Standard Admission and free for Members.

ZOOFEST - New Music Festival

After years of planning, a new San Antonio music festival gathered country, rock, and Latin music fans together for an incredible lineup of artists, including the headliner, the Josh Abbott Band, with AB Quintanilla & Kumbia All Starz, Finding Friday, and more. ZOOFEST presented by Bud Light, benefited San Antonio Zooand took place in the city’s center: the Historic Sunken Garden Theater. It was a wild day of music, food, drinks, multiple VIP experiences, and admission to San Antonio Zoo! Check it out!

PLANET EARTH: DEEP SEA ADVENTURES

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the global debut of Planet Earth: Deep Sea Adventures was our summer attraction. This underwater journey provided the opportunity to learn about some of the most AMAZING creatures – including some never seen before. Planet Earth: Deep Sea Adventure took us to the bottom of the ocean to a concealed habitat absent of light.

Zoo Lights – Bigger, Brighter and Wilder Than Ever Before

Zoo Lights, powered by CPS Energy, Illuminated last year’s holiday season. The experience consisted of acres of dazzling lights, festive holiday snacks, drinks for adults and kids, and larger-than-life displays and photoops across miles of trails.

San Antonio Zoo Kicks Off Spooky Season with ZOO BOO!

Zoo guests enjoyed the annual ZOO BOO! presented by Valero Benefit for Children. This non-scary Halloween event was open daily from September 17 – October 31 with zoolightful activations such as music, costume parties, multiple realms of Halloween fun, daily FREE trick-or-treating hour, and exciting interactions for little ghouls, goblins, and of course, your boo! ZOO BOO!, presented by Valero Benefit for Children, was included with Standard Admission and was FREE for San Antonio Zoo Members.

26th Annual Zoo-La-La! A Taste of San Antonio

More than 50 of the area’s top restaurants contributed for a one-night-adult-only fundraiser last May. Zoo La-La! A Taste of San Antonio offered guests an all-inclusive evening of delicious food, beer, wine, and multiple entertainment stages. A VIP experience was also available with exclusive lounges, specialty cocktails, and early event entry. Zoo La-La! A Taste of San Antonio takes place on the zoo’s grounds for one incredibly unique adultsonly night that only San Antonio Zoo can deliver.

San Antonio Zoo Brings Annual Dream Night to Pediatric Patients in San Antonio

San Antonio Zoo brought Dream Night, a special evening full of memorable zoo animals and activities, to the Children’s Hospital of San Antonio. The virtual field trip gave children who are not currently able to visit the zoo a behind-the-scenes look with fun facts and laughs all along the way. The virtual field trip took families on a wild adventure through the zoo, showcasing the scaley, furry, and feathery residents of San Antonio Zoo. The cute and sometimes hilarious moments gave viewers an up-close look at the diets, enrichments, personalities, and animal care teams that care for these animals. Dream Night at San Antonio Zoo started in 2017 for children who could not be exposed to large crowds due to a weakened immune system or needing care that limits their ability to leave home.

New at the Zoo

Coming Soon

San Antonio Zoo is working on phase 1 of a long-term master plan to improve the zoo’s infrastructure, ADA accommodations, safety, and ease of use for all guests and park visitors. These plans include a completely reimagined, redesigned and expanded zoo entry with immersive, interactive experiences worthy of a San Antonio celebration. The new entrance will reflect the sights, sounds, and culture of San Antonio and will include art by local artists. Shortly after that is complete, San Antonio Zoo is excited to announce that gorillas will return to San Antonio! The zoo’s last gorilla resident, Mopie, moved out of San Antonio in 1990 and back to Smithsonian’s National Zoo. An area in the zoo void of animal habitats and experiences for over a decade, known as Tree Top will be utilized for this oneof-a-kind gorilla habitat. The new two-acre area, Congo Falls, is in the final design stages and the zoo is fundraising for the project. The zoo’s goal is to create one of the largest gorilla habitats found in U.S. zoos and feature unique spaces, vistas, and exploration opportunities for guests and gorillas.

New at the Zoo

San Antonio Zoo’s F.C. Hixon Bird House Reimagined

San Antonio Zoo’s F.C. Hixon Bird House, completed in 1966, received a redesign of the façade highlighting the zoo’s bird community – now one of the world’s largest. Colonel F.C. Hixon funded the construction of the unique bird aviary “built-in-the-round” to house tropical birds from around the world. After its completion, Edward Marshall Boehm of Boehm Birdsceramics gifted 100 of his rare birds to the zoo to join the community in the new indoor aviary. The F.C. Hixon Bird House has informed and entertained visitors for over 55 years and remains one of the most popular habitat structures in the zoo.

The F.C. Hixon Bird House redesign joins a multitude of recent zoo improvements, including the recently opened NEOTROPICA realm, Pantera Walk presented by Texas A&M University-San Antonio, a soon-to-come new front entrance and plaza, and much-anticipated gorilla habitat to the future developments of the 108-year-old zoo. The center of the building features a simulated tropical rainforest with live vegetation and free-flying birds. Some bird species in the central open aviary have included Indian rollers, Rothschild’s mynahs, cock of the rock, pekin robins, whydahs, and several species of touraco. Surrounding the central rainforest are fourteen unique habitats.

New at the Zoo

San Antonio Zoo Opened the Discovery PLAYce

San Antonio Zoo welcomed all knee-high naturalists to visit the newly opened indoor 4,468 square-foot Discovery PLAYce. Discovery PLAYce is a whimsical and immersive interpretation of some of South Texas’ favorite play spaces for 0-5 years old’s, including Polywog’s Pond, Hawk’s Rock, Possums Passage, Beetle’s Courtyard, and more! Crawlers, wobblers, and walkers can explore spaces designed with love and intention that foster nature fluency, support risky play, test boundaries, and build confidence in interacting with elements of nature that all contribute to vital learning skills. Discovery PLAYce is included with Standard Admission and FREE for San Antonio Zoo Members.

Union Pacific Mini Train Added to Brackenridge Park Rail Line

All Aboard! San Antonio Zoo welcomed the Union Pacific Mini Train to its rail line as it chugged into town at Brackenridge Park. The train was led by Union Pacific Locomotive No. 210, which features the sleek design of Streamliner engines of the 1950s and 1960s. The new diesel train was funded 100% by donations, with the lead naming gift of $300,000 from Union Pacific. In addition, each zoo train runs on fuel generously donated by Valero Energy Corporation.

The zoo is still working on plans for a third new train which will be very distinct from the two new trains now in operation, giving riders three styles of trains to enjoy. The new trains feature improvements from previous versions, such as more legroom, more seating space, improved sound systems, and ADA accessibility.

Freetail Brewing Company Unveiled New Roadrunner Conserveza Can

San Antonio Zoo’s conservation collaboration with Freetail Brewing Company and Silver Eagle Beverages continues with the unveiling of a new Conserveza beer can design featuring a true San Antonio icon, the roadrunner, and a $10,000 check presentation from Freetail. The Conserveza collaboration began in 2017 and has featured beer can designs incorporating a reticulated giraffe, Mexican freetail bats, a jaguar, monarch butterflies, the Texas horned lizard, and now, a majestic blue and orange roadrunner.

San Antonio Zoo Paves Way With New Director of Animal Wellbeing

San Antonio Zoological Society announced that Dr. Charles Ritzler joined the team as the new Director of Animal Wellbeing. While San Antonio Zoo has an award-winning Animal Wellbeing Program, adding the Director of Animal Wellbeing role will be the first time the zoo has a position solely dedicated to animal safety, behavioral management, wellbeing, enrichment, and public engagement.

Wine that Saves Wildlife, San Antonio Zoo Unveiled Conservino

Drink wine and save wildlife! San Antonio Zoo announced a new partnership with John Rivenburgh, Proprietor and Award-Winning Director of Wine Making at Kerrville Hills Winery, for Conservino, a red and white wine helping to secure a future for wildlife. 100% of proceeds from the sale of Conservino will support San Antonio Zoo-led conservation efforts locally and around the world. Conservino is available for private events at San Antonio Zoo and was unveiled at the Zoobilation Ball last November. In addition, wine lovers can find and enjoy Conservino at select locations, including Fralo’s and Bar 301 in San Antonio, Texas.

“We are thrilled to launch Conservino wine with our new partners at Kerrville Hills Winery,” said Tim Morrow, President & CEO of San Antonio Zoo. “Our very own COO, Jesse Vargas, John, and his winery team have created two incredible tasting wines for us that will help grow and support our conservation programs.”

San Antonio Zoo Renames Roadrunner ‘Rowdy’ In Honor of UTSA Mascot

San Antonio Zoo announced they renamed their roadrunner ‘Rowdy’ just days after UTSA won the second back-to-back Conference USA football championships. The 48 – 27 win over the University of North Texas inspired the naming of the resident roadrunner located in the ‘Birds Of The World’ area.

Greater Roadrunners are native to the United States and Mexico and thrive in deserts and open areas with scattered brush. While roadrunners can fly, they prefer to be on the ground running at speeds up to 27 mph. The most significant threat to roadrunners is habitat loss due to humans. Roadrunners are incredibly personable and wag their tails and puff or slick back the crest on the top of their heads to express emotions.

New & Improved Employee Spaces

Project Selva 4D Theater Makes Debut at San Antonio Zoo Project Selva 4D Theater

Arrived Last Summer

The new Project Selva 4D Theater integrates the highest quality 3D high-definition projection with inseat and in-theater effects to create a fully immersive experience that teaches about wildlife. Features for the Project Selva 4D Theater will rotate periodically throughout the year and be mission-aligned to San Antonio Zoo. The immersive theater allows guests to embark on exciting adventures through wildlife and wild places with various special effects, including bubbles, snow, scent, FX lighting, water mist, seat vibrations, and wind.

San Antonio Zoo Tortoises Move to a New Expanded Habitat

The three Aldabra Tortoise’s, Edie, Bruno and George have moved to their new home. Now, guests can get close and personal with San Antonio Zoo’s oldest residents. Plan your behind-the-scenes visit with Edie, Bruno and George at sazoo.org

New at the Zoo

Reimagined Food & Retail Locations

Outpost Amazonia • Train Depot • Nanyuki Market

Reimaginings for the Nanyuki Market, the Outpost Amazonia, and the Train Depot gift shops included a vibrant facelift with new future-friendly merchandise collections. These renovations, enhancements and expanded culinary and retail options elevate the guest experience. San Antonio Zoo is relentlessly dedicated to improving its offerings as it looks toward the next 100 years of conservation education and animal wellbeing.

EXPANDED AND RECORD ENROLLMENT

Will Smith Zoo School actively engaged in and supported four evidence-based research projects across the developing field of early childhood sustainability education. In September, we magnified our reach and expanded our impact by opening an 11th classroom.

In the summer of 2022, for the first time ever, we invited alumni to return from previous years for the summer program by including a classroom for 6-year-old’s.

The school had a record summer of enrollment at 91% of enrollment capacity.

In 2022, the school presented a pedagogical approach of nature-based learning to over 700 educators, leaders, and administrators, with a focus on low-income, head start, and Title 1 schools.

INCREASED OUR OUTREACH

Implemented two new Education Manager positions covering operations, community outreach, pedagogy and professional development.

OVER 100,000 FIELD TRIP PARTICIPANTS

45% OF SCHOOL VISITS FROM TITLE 1 SCHOOLS

1,490 CAMPERS

THANK YOU TO OUR 2022 DONORS

$100K

and Over

Susan Naylor Sellers

Mays Family Foundation

Donald G. Elliott and Denise Pride-Elliott MD

The Charles Butt Foundation

SSA Group

Janice Marie Petree Revocable Trust

Mark and Mary Barrett

The Carroll & Marguerite Wheeler Foundation

Nancy Smith Hurd Foundation

Union Pacific Railroad

Guido Companies

$50K - $99,999

Brandon and Triana Grossman

Ken and Denise Schlaudt

Philip and Elizabeth Jacobs

Ancira Enterprises, Inc.

Sergio and Alice Viroslav

Minnifield Enterprize, Inc.

Sam B. (Tres) and Megan Steves III

$15,000 - $49,999

Robert N. Young

H-E-B

Capital Group Companies Charitable Foundation

Lauren G. Guido Tew

Chad and Tania Eubanks

Robert and Jeanne Latimer

Jerry A. Kloberdanz

Genevieve Niederberger Trust

Nimesh and Jahira Patel

Charles and Kay Kay O’Brien

Nelson Puett Foundation

John (William) and Jayme Russell

Conner and Ashley Quintanilla

Edwin J. Whitney

The Rugeley Ferguson Foundation

Robert and Julie Miggins

Robert and Rebecca Eckerle

Jack and Valerie Guenther Foundation

Brian and Hannah Steward

PNC Bank

Glyn Stultz

Charles and Gina Langley

Charles and Lisa Harthan

James and Kelly Daniell

Circle Bar Foundation

Geraldine G. Lawson Charitable Trust

Mike and Meredith Howard

Barbara Bowman

Charles and Stacy Clines

Thomas and Maryanne Guido

Cosmo and Danielle Guido

John R. and Greli N. Less Charitable Trust

John L. Nau III

Vaughn Vasconcellos and Suzanne Martin

Stella C. Herff Charitable Trust

Gary and Joni Raba

Clayton and Cathy Killinger

Robert and Amy Brewer

Marcus (Marko) Barrett and Sheila Cardenas-Barrett

Elizabeth Huth Coates

Charitable Foundation

George and Julie Parker

Texas A&M University - San Antonio

Neal Wagner and Deborah Callanan

Karen J. Hixon

Darnell Crump and Annita Hereford-Crump

Laddie and Camille Denton

William (Billy) and Cheryl Freed

Frank and Jill Ruttenberg

John and Rebecca Canavan

Jonathan and Helen Dear

The Betty Stieren Kelso Foundation

The Elma Dill Russell Spencer Foundation

The M.R.S Foundation

Robert and Melanie Thomas

Tim and Karen Hixon Foundation

Valero Energy Corporation

Winkler Family Foundation

Beldon Roofing & Remodeling Co., Inc.

John and Erica Sun

Justin and Lynzee Hill

Biglari Foundation

Gilbert Vazquez and Crystal De La Garza

Todd and Karen Brockwell

Andrew and Faryl Greller

Enzo and Tonya Pellegrino

Bruce Walker

Robert and Stephanie N. Girling

James and Natalie Bloomingdale

Gretchen Rix

Roxanne Rix

Matt and Jessica Gossett

Nick and Sandy McFadin

Chris and Vivienne Bathie

Jason Thompson and April A. Ancira

Kristine Rogers

John and Libby Williams

Lee and Catriona Cavender

Estate of Jean M. Piccione

Estate of Robert Cutshall

Benjamin L. Jones

Robert (Roby) and Rosa Latimer

Earle Lindell

Marcia and Otto Koehler Foundation

Muriel F. Siebert Foundation

The Harvey E. Najim Charitable Foundation

The Louis Herbert Stumberg Jr. Fund

TND Family Foundation

North Park Toyota of San Antonio

Carol Severyn

Cavender Auto Group

Mclean and Kelly Russell

Mark and Carolyn Thornton

Frost Bank

JB and Corinna Richter

Haynes and Boone, LLP

Herrmann-Zeller Charitable Foundation

Hoffman Reporting & Video Service

Ken Batchelor Cadillac

Kimberley S. Lewis

Myra Stafford Pryor Charitable Trust

Porter Loring Mortuaries

Silver Eagle Beverages

Steves Charitable Foundation

$10,000 - $14,999

Ned and Laura Berg Hodge

Joe and Christine Haynes

Will and Minnie Baird

Kurt and Carol Haman

Carol Lee Jones Educational and Cultural Fund of the SAAF

Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation

Kenneth and Amy Adams

Lynn and Caroline Laurence

Steve and Susan Lewis

Longoria-Wright Foundation

$5,000 - $9,999

Tony Parker

University of Oklahoma

Fernando and Maria Reyes

Glenn and Betsy Mortimer

Jeffrey and Kathleen Bolner

Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld, L.L.P.

Big Sun Solar

Thomas (Dos) and Samantha Gates

HIVE Blockchain Technologies

JP Morgan & Co.

Jefferson Bank and 1900Wealth

Las Aguilas Enterprises

Luther King Capital Management

Marsh McLennan Agency

Misfit Venture Studio

Pape-Dawson Engineers, Inc.

Ricos Products

Steves & Sons

SwipeTrack Solutions

Texas Capital Bank

The Bank of San Antonio

H. Anthony Troche

Wells Fargo Advisors

Wells Fargo Bank

Sendero Wealth Management

Robert (Clint) and Jessica Worth

William and Nancy Maloy

Charles and Lida Plummer

The Harris K. & Lois G. Oppenheimer Foundation

Kevin Covey and Federica Padilla

David and Amelita Mauze

Linda Janysek

Joan and Herb Kelleher Charitable Foundation

Comprehensive Home Health & Hospice, Inc.

Barry and Elizabeth Roberts

Johnny and Ruthie Russell

Martin and Rebecca Salinas

The Robert P. And Mariana R. Scripps Family Foundation

The United States Coast Guard

Jim and Kelly Satel

Jeanmarie M. Tulipane

Youngforever Plastic Surgery

Mark and Lauren Biegler

Abby Johanson

Noel W. and Sabrina Scott

Fern Lee (Missy) Finck

Andrew and Ashley Friedman

Texas Instruments Foundation

Norborne (Norb) Page and Mary Cole

Sara Stumberg Walker

Cameron R. Redding

Stanley and Susan Casto

Thomas and Patsy Inglet

Wayne K. Pfeiffer

Tracy Avery

Bobby and Karen Barrera

David W. Burris

Faye L. and William L. Cowden

Charitable Foundation

Freetail Brewing Co.

Jim and Suzanne Goudge

Natural Bridge Caverns

Keith and Joanna Perkins

Silver Ventures

Shep and Karen Stiefel Harrison

The DMS Fund

The Nordan Trust

Christopher and Stephanie Wilde

Heather Wright Rodgers