Asheboro, NC - Even during a pandemic year, the North Carolina Zoo, located in the Heart of North Carolina, is planning more ways to attract visitors. Administrators are even pursuing winter visitation, according to Diane Villa, director of communications and marketing.

Some ideas they are looking at include “snowmakers,” which, Villa said, “give the illusion of snow with bubble makers.” Planners are also coming up with more themed photo opportunities for visitors as well as socially distanced campfires where you can buy s’mores kits and make your own snack.

During the winter months, she said, “the North America animals are the stars,” including the polar bears and other cold-weather species. On the other hand, many of the animals in Africa “are not built for when the temperature drops.”

The Zoo had closed temporarily early on during the COVID-19 pandemic, from March 17-June 15, Villa said. Unfortunately, that was when the Zoo crowds normally increase. When the facility reopened, it was at 30 percent capacity or about 3,000 visitors per day. She said it is recommended that visitors come during weekdays when possible when there are fewer other visitors around. “Our numbers are down easily by half or more,” said Villa of visitors in 2020.

Despite COVID-19, Villa said, construction details for the new Asia region are complete. She said they anticipate a groundbreaking to kick off Asia construction in 2021. Also, construction of the expanded baboon habitat is on schedule.

All this is happening with the backdrop of an eight-part Nat Geo WILD series, “Secrets of the Zoo: North Carolina,” which premiered on Oct. 31. Produced by Double Act TV, the show goes behind the scenes with Zoo staff for stories such as animal husbandry, emergency procedures, and the Zoo’s work in conservation and rescue and release of injured wildlife.

Meanwhile, the Zoo staff has “settled into the new normal.” Villa said some are teleworking from home and holding Zoom meetings or virtual team projects. Those who must come to work are “really paying attention to protocols — wearing masks and social distancing.

Strict rules are in place when staff is around mammals, in particular, Villa said, noting that “big cats can catch COVID. So (keepers) have to be very strict.” 

All in all, she said, Zoo workers “are always on their toes for change since this pandemic keeps changing.”

mosuba

Mosuba, a silverback gorilla, seems unconcerned about the pandemic. (Larry Penkava)

Before coming to work, all employees do a self-assessment that includes symptom screening and having a normal temperature. They also follow the latest governor’s Executive Order (e.g., wearing face masks and social distancing).

If an employee tests positive for COVID, the work area undergoes a thorough cleaning, contact tracing identifies anyone they may have been in close contact with, and affected persons quarantine for 14 days. Villa said the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, which oversees the Zoo, has allotted paid time off for any employee having to quarantine because of the virus. This encourages staff to remain home if feeling unwell.

What visitors need to know

NC Zoo Masks

Guests are expected to adhere to the Zoo’s health and safety policies, including wearing face coverings and social distancing. Anyone not feeling well is asked to stay home and reschedule the visit.

These guidelines are subject to change. Check out www.nczoo.org for the latest.

All guests will need to either reserve a time or purchase a timed entry ticket prior to visiting the Zoo. If you hold a Zoo ticket, call the advance tickets/reservations office at 336-879-7700 from 9 am – 4 pm daily to make a reservation for an entry date/time. Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance of your planned visit date and are subject to availability.

  • To keep crowd size at the gate to a minimum, we ask that you please do not arrive at the gate before your reserved entry time. We are unable to accommodate early entries. Print your reservation confirmation or tickets for the most efficient entry. Tickets can also be scanned from your smartphone.
  • Face coverings are required for entry and throughout your visit for all guests ages 5 and older.
  • Guests should maintain at least 6 feet from other groups and practice frequent hand washing.
  • All guests will park and enter the Zoo through the North America Entrance, where the entire Zoo is available.
  • There is no reentry currently so if you plan to picnic do so before or after your visit at the Solar Pointe Picnic Area.
  • Zoo staff will be wearing face coverings and cleaning frequently touched surfaces regularly.
  • One-way guest traffic flow where feasible.
  • One-way tram service for guests from Junction Plaza back to the North America Entrance after you have completed your loop of the Africa region. (Face coverings required)

What is temporarily closed or unavailable (Check the website nczoo.org for the most up-to-date information)

  • Indoor habitats – Seabirds, Polar Bear Ice Cave, and Streamside
  • Indoor dining areas -- walkup food service and outdoor seating is available
  • Giraffe Deck, Carousel, Treehouse Trek, Africa VR Experience, Zoofari, and Air Hike Ropes Course
  • Education Smart Carts
  • Keeper talks and animal feeding times
  • Tram services in Africa
  • Baboon Habitat is closed for renovations

-Larry Penkava, Contributing Writer