By: Alexander Huey, Marketing and Communications Specialist at Delaware State Parks

Back in May, we gave you the first look at new improvements coming to the reimagined Brandywine Zoo. We are excited to share that work has officially begun to prepare for the implementation of the master plan and reimagining of the zoo, and we have exciting new concept art and photos of construction actively taking place.

This winter’s construction projects include the conversion of the zoo’s otter exhibit into a new small animal contact area. This area will house the zoo’s goat contact exhibit once it reopens in the spring. Other improvements to zoo include updates to the honeybees and hive learning exhibit, installation of new signage throughout the zoo, as well as updates and improvements to the Andean condor exhibit and renovation of the exhibit for the zoo’s South American capybaras – better known as the world’s largest living rodents.

Photo’s shared by the zoo below give us a sneak peek at construction taking place within the zoo.

This construction and modification of exhibits not only enables the zoo to move some animals into upgraded facilities, but also helps the zoo keepers to prepare for the arrival of new species this spring. To minimize the impact on animals that currently call the zoo home, Brandywine Zoo Director Brint Spencer shared that some of the animals are being shifted to housing away from the construction work areas. Keepers will be keeping these animals fully engaged until they are able to return to their exhibit space after construction.

While the zoo’s education building will remain open for public programs, during this first phase of construction, the zoo’s campus in Wilmington will temporarily close through the end of February. It is certainly an exciting time for the Brandywine Zoo, and we remind you to keep an eye on the Delaware State Parks Blog and Delaware State Parks social media pages for project updates.

Learn more about the zoo’s previously announced master plan.