Functions
- Operates as the largest family-oriented, educational tourist attraction in Central Louisiana, 362 days each year. (Over 163,000 visitors in 2006)
- Serves as an educational resource for over 25,000 school children from the eleven surrounding parishes as well as Mississippi and Texas.
- Presents several hundred on-site educational programs and activities for all ages.
- Serves as extended classroom for K-12 and college classes offering "across the curriculum opportunities" for teachers. Workshops are also offered.
- Works closely with local schools (Bolton High School is a partner in education)
- Cares for over 600 animals on a daily basis (365 days a year) and maintains health and husbandry records for these animals.
- Promotes the conservation and appreciation of all wildlife, and is involved in conservation efforts worldwide through AZA programs and locally by partnering with other environmental organizations and agencies.
- Promotes cultural enrichment through an variety of special entertainment and activities.
- Strives to increase revenue and attendance through 10 or more annual events and activities for the community such as ZOO BOO, Zoo Day, Earth Fair, Wild Side of the Arts, and Safari Nite.
- Maintains a facility (approx. 33 acres) that includes 27 buildings, 2.5 miles of walkways, 3,342 feet of train track, 200 space parking lot, and 120 animal exhibits.
- Employs 20 people (administrator, education curator, general curator, health curator, secretary, mechanical systems technician, trades worker, inventory coordinator, office assistant, 2 night security workers, and 9 zoo keepers)
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