The zoo was due to open on 1 March but, as previously reported in Leisure Opportunities, the zoo suffered major damage to two exhibits - the Marsh Aviary and the African Aviary - during the February snowstorms. There was also the loss of over 60 trees and damage to various buildings.

“This has been a pretty tough winter for all of us in Maryland,” said Don Hutchinson, president and CEO of the zoo. “The Zoo suffered a great deal of damage, but I am proud of the great work our staff did during the storms and the work they are now doing to clean up the campus and ready the grounds for visitors.”

“There will be some exhibits, such as the Marsh Aviary and the African Aviary, that will remain closed until further notice,” continued Hutchinson. “And we also want our visitors to know that on any given day certain animals may not be on exhibit due to the condition of their yards. In many cases the mud left behind from the melting snow is dangerous for certain species, such as the giraffes. We will be keeping folks updated daily as they come to the zoo.”

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