Blank Park Zoo

Blank Park Zoo is a 49-acre zoological park situated on the south side of Des Moines, Iowa, United States, near the historic Fort Des Moines. The zoo is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), signifying its adherence to high standards of animal care and conservation.

History and Development

The zoo's origins trace back to 1963 when Abraham Harry Blank donated funds for the construction of a children's zoo. The Des Moines Children’s Zoo officially opened on May 8, 1966, featuring a design inspired by nursery rhymes, complete with a castle, moat, Noah's Ark replica, petting zoo, and miniature railroad. For many years, improvements were slow, and the zoo faced the possibility of closure.

In 1981, a group of local business leaders established the Blank Park Zoo Foundation to provide financial support for capital improvements and animal acquisitions. This led to a partnership with the City of Des Moines, resulting in a bond referendum and community funding that enabled significant renovations. The zoo reopened on May 17, 1986, showcasing geographically themed exhibits with naturalistic landscaping. The foundation's commitment continued with the purchase of additional historic property for expansion and the development of new exhibits like the Great Cats exhibit and the Discovery Center.

Major Exhibits and Features

The zoo hosts a variety of wildlife across its diverse exhibits. The Myron and Jackie Blank Discovery Center is an enclosed area that visitors encounter first, featuring plants and animals in distinct sections, including the Meredith Alpine Exhibit for red pandas, The Cave for nocturnal animals, a Free Range Tropical Aviary, and an Aquarium showcasing aquatic life from around the globe.

Jaama Kwa: Connection to Africa, opened in 2013, expanded the zoo's African collection with species such as Eastern black rhinos, okapis, and giraffes. The David Kruidenier Australia Adventure brings visitors to the Australian outback with animals like the cassowary and wallabies. Kids' Kingdom provides interactive play areas and contact animals for younger visitors. The Tom and Jo Ghrist Big Cat Complex houses large felines, and the Hub Harbor Pinniped Pavilion features California sea lions and harbor seals, including rescued individuals.

Conservation Efforts

Blank Park Zoo actively engages in conservation initiatives. The Blank Park Zoo Conservation Committee, established in 1997, raises funds for international projects focused on protecting animals and their natural habitats. The zoo participates in programs such as the Species Survival Plan (SSP) for endangered species, supports the International Snow Leopard Trust, and contributes to efforts for the Greater Prairie Chicken, Giraffe Conservation Foundation, The Great Ape Trust, and Panamanian Golden Frogs.