I was there at the end of May and none of the buildings were open. I feel like they would post it online somewhere if they opened up the buildings again. I'll have to take a trip there soon!
Henry Vilas Zoo Henry Vilas Zoo News 2021
- Thread starter Valentinoamor
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I was there at the end of May and none of the buildings were open. I feel like they would post it online somewhere if they opened up the buildings again. I'll have to take a trip there soon!
According to the zoo's Facebook page: "Our primate building is open and the Herpetarium will open in the next two weeks. The aviary will remain closed this summer due to several COVID susceptible species housed there, including our otter pups."
The otters aren’t even on-exhibit in the building though…
The zoo’s director has been charged with sexual harassment and is now facing a civil lawsuit.
Madison zoo director facing sexual assault charge, civil lawsuit
Madison zoo director facing sexual assault charge, civil lawsuit
I visited today. Their website just said "some indoor areas may be closed" which isn't helpful, but I found out this means the aviary and the Discovery Center (but for some reason, not the Herpetarium 
). Here's some updates and other things:
). Here's some updates and other things:- The Turkey Vulture is no longer on exhibit.
- The Flamingo House is closed as well, doesn't really count as indoors though.
- I think this is the first time I've seen the Meerkats outside, possibly due to the hornbills in the indoor area.
- The Aardvark outdoor yard is looking nice.
- The Alligator Snapper was swimming!
- The turtle habitat in the Herpetarium now has a Smallmouth Bass.
- The native fish tank appears to have a completely new set of fish in it. It now contains Bluegill, Pumpkinseed, and Largemouth Bass.
- A Western Diamondback Rattlesnake now lives in the former Timber Rattlesnake terrarium.
- The badger exhibit in the prairie is being renovated.
- The penguins were completely off-exhibit today.
- Today is the first time in my life I have ever seen a Capybara legitimately swimming. They are much better swimmers than they look!
All of the indoor areas are closed again.
Update: The former zoo director Ronda Schwetz is coming back to her job as director. As well, the charges will be dismissed in October 2023 if she goes through with alcohol treatment and avoiding contact with the male she assualted.
Dane County zoo director to return following sexual assault allegations
It is surreal to think of someone you've personally talked to and idolized growing up as somebody that would sexually assault someone else. I'm just picturing my 14-year-old self sitting with her while we worked with Bucky the American Badger when he was young. It definitely makes you think twice about people.
19-year-old Red Panda “Tarrei” passed away.