Open 365 Days A Year!
About Us
Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden
Forging Connections Between People and the Natural World
Situated on 45-scenic acres of rolling hills on Evansville’s northwest side, our Zoo is home to hundreds of animals from around the globe. While visiting, you will navigate the Zoo’s geographically grouped and themed regions including South America, North America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Throughout the Zoo, thousands of exotic and regional botanic species adorn hillsides and animal exhibits. You will be in awe as you are transported to South America and explore the rainforest in Amazonia.
We encourage you to take a moment to browse our website and learn more about our animal collection, educations programs, mission, and special events. Or better yet, plan an adventure to Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden and experience the wonders of our natural world.
Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden’s mission is to foster the preservation of the Earth’s diverse species and living systems through an active role in education and conservation in our regional and professional community. We will forge connections between people and the natural world by providing quality experiences that promote understanding and celebrate the rich tapestry of life.
Accreditations
AZA Accreditation
“Association of Zoos and Aquariums envisions a world where all people respect, value and conserve animals and nature.”
Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of accredited zoos and aquariums in the areas of animal care, wildlife conservation, education and science. AZA is America’s leading accrediting organization for zoos and aquariums and accredits only those institutions that have achieved rigorous standards for animal care, education, wildlife conservation and science.
AZA evaluates every zoo or aquarium to make sure it meets AZA’s standards for animal management and care, including living environments, social groupings, health, and nutrition. Making sure that animals are provided with enrichment, which stimulates each animal’s natural behavior and provides variety in their daily routine.
AZA also evaluates the veterinary program, involvement in conservation and research, education programs, safety policies and procedures, security, physical facilities, guest services, and the quality of the institution’s staff. And because a zoo or aquarium needs a strong foundation in order to continue to meet high standards, AZA also evaluates each institution’s finances, its governing authority, and its support organization. In other words, AZA looks at everything! For more information about the AZA or it’s programs please visit their website (www.aza.org).