LV ZOO TO OFFER A-TREAT SODA STARTING WITH WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR
The Region’s Original Walk-Through Lights Extravaganza Returns to Lehigh Valley Zoo on Friday

(Schnecksville, Pa.) —Two regional favorites are pairing up, as Lehigh Valley Zoo will be offering the historic A-Treat® brand of Pennsylvania soda, produced and distributed by Jaindl Beverage Company (a division of the Jaindl Companies), for the first time ever beginning with the start of Winter Light Spectacular (WLS) on Nov. 14. Tickets to 12^th annual event can be purchased at winterlightspectacular.com.

On Oct. 23, A-Treat® announced the re-introduction of its customer-favorite flavors in newly-designed 12-pack fridge-friendly cans. Along with the brand’s popularity, the new, aluminum packaging aligned with the zoo’s #kNOwplasticscampaign. As a community leader in conservation, LV Zoo embarked on the journey of eliminating single-use plastics within the zoo and helping its local community reduce plastic consumption.

“We always strive to maximize the experiences of zoo guests – and that includes all in-park amenities,” LV Zoo President & CEO Amanda Shurr said. “A-Treat beverages and unique flavors are iconic within our community, so we are excited to offer them here at the zoo. Additionally, we are thrilled to partner with a company that has recognized the importance of the zoo’s mission and so generously supported our efforts.”

As part of the partnership, and for a limited time, visitors to the zoo will also receive a special discount code with their online WLS ticket purchase, offering $5 off their pre-order of a Jaindl Turkey for Thanksgiving or Christmas at the Jaindl retail store in Orefield or online at www.jaindl.com.

Further, The Fred J. Jaindl Foundation and the David and Jackie Jaindl Family have both made a significant impact on the first phase of the Children’s Activity Area – a major renovation to the lower part of zoo – which includes the Fred and Anne Jaindl Family Barnyard, which is expected to open soon.

“The Lehigh Valley Zoo holds a special place in our community, and we couldn’t think of a better setting to share the excitement around A-Treat’s return to cans,” said David Jaindl, President & CEO of Jaindl Beverage Company. “A-Treat and the Zoo are both long-standing local treasures that bring families together, and especially this holiday season we’re proud to celebrate that shared sense of tradition, fun, and community.”

A-Treat® classic flavors now available in aluminum are Birch Beer, Black Cherry, Frosty Cream, Ginger Ale, Grapefruit, Orange and White Birch Beer. The updated 12-pack fridge packs were initially being launched in Redner’s Warehouse Markets and Boyer’s Food Markets, with additional retail availability to follow.

Located at LV Zoo in Schnecksville, Pa., WLS is the Zoo’s largest annual fundraiser and was featured by USA Todayin “Holiday light displays worth traveling for across America.” In addition to 1.2 million lights – a total more than any other Pennsylvania attraction – WLS also features classic holiday scenes, numerous photo opportunities, multiple fire pits, hot chocolate and so many other holiday treats. Dan’s Camera City will be back offering picture packages with Santa Claus during select time frames at select event dates through Dec. 23. Again, visit winterlightspectacular.com for dates, times and promotions.

Revenue from the event supports animal conservation projects and programs at the LV Zoo. While guests may spot some of the Zoo’s “night owls” during WLS, most of the animals will be off exhibit.

Please visit winterlightspectacular.com or follow the Zoo on Facebook for daily WLS updates, promotions, contests, weather cancellations and so much more.

LV Zoo is currently operating under winter hours, open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at www.lvzoo.org.

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About A-Treat® (www.a-treat.com)

The Allentown, PA-based soda brand was founded in 1918 by Joseph and Jack Egizio using the finest traditional ingredients available that consumers and enthusiasts have counted on for over 100 years. After being acquired by Jaindl Companies, the iconic A-TREAT® made a resurgence, still produced according to formulas that evolved from Egizio family recipes. To learn more visit A-TREAT.com or join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Nature Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

— SmartFun—

LV ZOO WELCOMES ITS FIRST-EVER, NEWBORN FEMALE ALPACA
Lehigh Valley Health Network is the Official Motherhood Partner of the LV Zoo

(Schnecksville, Pa.) — Lehigh Valley Zoo in conjunction with Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), part of Jefferson Health, is excited to announce the birth of a its first-ever female baby alpaca, born on Thursday, Oct. 23. The cria marks the third offspring for mother Illuminati and father Havoc, joining males, Buzz (Sept. 12, 2023) and Tupaca (Aug. 22, 2024) – and increasing LV Zoo’s alpaca herd to five members.

Unlike the rest of her family, this cria has black fleece. Black colored alpacas are very rare and very fittingly, she was born around Halloween.

Shortly after the cria was born, LV Zoo’s animal care staff relocated her and mother into a separate, adjacent pasture to allow the newborn to nurse and bond with mom. She was a small cria, weighing just under 10 pounds — so it was also important to ensure that she was nursing well and growing steadily. By comparison, youngest brother Tupaca was born weighing 13.6 pounds. Cria typically nurse for about five months; and at around two months, they will start to consume solid foods.

This week, the herd was reunited and the little cria seems to be enjoying life with her whole family. They are all now currently living in a pasture where guests can visit the newest addition.

Alpaca gestation typically lasts around 11-12 months – between 320-375 days.

Seven-year-old Illuminati and nine-year-old Havoc arrived at LV Zoo together in October 2022 from a private facility for breeding purposes. Alpacas are native to the central and southern Andes Mountains, from Peru to Argentina and are the smallest of the domesticated camelid species.

The new alpaca still needs a name. In partnership with LVHN, LV Zoo is seeking name suggestions on Facebook – allowing the animal care staff the opportunity to select its favorite submission.

LVHN is the Official Motherhood Partner of the Lehigh Valley Zoo.

LV Zoo is currently operating under winter hours, open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at www.lvzoo.org.

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About Jefferson

Jefferson is reimagining health care and higher education to create unparalleled value throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. More than 65,000 people strong, Jefferson is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate clinical care for patients; making our communities healthier and stronger; preparing tomorrow’s professional leaders for 21st-century careers; and creating new knowledge through basic/programmatic, clinical and applied research. Thomas Jefferson University, home of Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Jefferson College of Nursing, and the Kanbar College of Design, Engineering and Commerce, dates back to 1824 and today comprises 10 colleges and three schools offering 200+ undergraduate and graduate programs to more than 8,300 students. Jefferson Health, nationally ranked as one of the top 15 not-for-profit health care systems in the country and the largest provider in the Philadelphia and Lehigh Valley areas, serves patients through millions of encounters each year at 32 hospital campuses and more than 700 outpatient and urgent care locations throughout the region. Jefferson Health Plans, through Health Partners Plans, Inc., is a not-for-profit managed health care organization offering a broad range of health coverage options to more than 370,000 members for more than 40 years.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Nature Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram .

— SmartFun—

WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE REVEALED
The Region’s Original Walk-Through Lights Extravaganza Returns to Lehigh Valley Zoo on Nov. 14

Schnecksville, Pa.) —Lehigh Valley Zoo has revealed the Princess Performance Schedule for its 12^th-annual Winter Light Spectacular (WLS), presented by Service Electric TV & Communications and powered by Christmas Decor, which opens on Friday, Nov. 14. The performances and meet-and-greet sessions have been a guest favorite at Eastern Pennsylvania’s most popular holiday tradition. Tickets to all 37 scheduled dates are available at winterlightspectacular.com.

A complete performance schedule can be found at bit.ly/PrincessesWLS.

Each night features at least two beloved performers. Once again, the popular Elsa will perform every night; and she will be joined by her sister, Anna, to perform together every Saturday.

LV Zoo staff is excited about a brand new WLS experience that is scheduled for two dates. In honor of Taylor Swift’s 36^th birthday, a Swift Sing-Along with Jo will take place on Friday, Dec. 13. There will encore presentation on New Year’s Eve, Wednesday, Dec. 31.

A trio of Wicked Wednesdays will feature the first-ever WLS appearances by Elphaba and Fiyero on Nov. 26 and return appearances by Glinda on Dec. 10 and Dec. 17. Sally from Nightmare Before Christmas will make her one annual appearance on Wednesday, Dec. 3. Snow White will also make a WLS debut on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

Other returning princesses making multiple appearances throughout WLS are Ariel, Aurora, Belle, Cinderella and Rapunzel. As in years past, there will be a Princess Party – featuring six performers – on the final night of the event, Saturday, Jan. 3.

Additionally, there are five scheduled Fridays that feature a meet-and-greet with Jessie from Toy Story (Nov. 21, 28; Dec. 5, 19; Jan. 2).

Located at LV Zoo in Schnecksville, Pa., WLS is the Zoo’s largest annual fundraiser and was featured by USA Today in “Holiday light displays worth traveling for across America.” In addition to 1.2 million lights – a total more than any other Pennsylvania attraction – WLS also features classic holiday scenes, numerous photo opportunities, multiple fire pits, hot chocolate and so many other holiday treats. Dan’s Camera City will be back offering picture packages with Santa Claus during select time frames at select event dates through Dec. 23. Again, visit winterlightspectacular.com for dates, times and promotions.

Revenue from the event supports animal conservation projects and programs at the LV Zoo. While guests may spot some of the Zoo’s “night owls” during WLS, most of the animals will be off exhibit.

Please visit winterlightspectacular.com or follow the Zoo on Facebook for daily WLS updates, promotions, contests, weather cancellations and so much more.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Nature Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram.

— SmartFun—

TICKETS ON SALE WEDNESDAY FOR THE 12TH-ANNUAL WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR
The Region’s Original Walk-Through Lights Extravaganza Returns to Lehigh Valley Zoo for 37 Dates

Schnecksville, Pa.) — Eastern Pennsylvania’s most popular holiday tradition returns when Lehigh Valley Zoo and Christmas Décor host the 12^th-annual Winter Light Spectacular(WLS), presented by Service Electric TV & Communications. The popular event is scheduled for 37 dates this season, spanning from Friday, Nov. 14, through Saturday, Jan. 3. Tickets go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 17, at winterlightspectacular.com.

Located at LV Zoo in Schnecksville, Pa., WLS is the Zoo’s largest annual fundraiser and was featured by USA Today in “Holiday light displays worth traveling for across America.”

In addition to 1.2 million lights – a total more than any other Pennsylvania attraction – WLS features classic holiday scenes, numerous photo opportunities, multiple fire pits, hot chocolate and so many other holiday treats. There will also be live performances every night featuring popular princesses, such as Elsa, Anna, Ariel and Rapunzel. Additionally, Dan’s Camera City will be back offering picture packages with Santa Claus during select time frames at select event date through Dec. 23. Again, visit winterlightspectacular.com for dates, times and promotions.

Revenue from the event supports animal conservation projects and programs at the LV Zoo.

For the sixth consecutive year, WLS will feature timed-ticketing set for two-hour sessions. This modification has significantly improved the guest experience since 2020 by greatly improving traffic flow into the Zoo and positively impacting parking availability. Due to the popularity of this event and the likelihood of sold-out dates, the LV Zoo strongly recommends purchasing your tickets online to guarantee availability.

General Admission

GA Ticket prices remain $16 for adults and $14 for children (ages 2-11) when purchased in advance online; $18 for adults and $16 for children (ages 2-11) when purchased at the event. LV Zoo Members receive a discounted rate of $10 per ticket when purchased in advance online; $12 for member adults and $10 for member children when purchased at the event.

Infants (ages 0-1) are free and there is no fee for parking.

VIP Admission

Guests can upgrade the experience with VIP Tickets, available in limited quantities each night. In addition to VIP-only access to the Jingle Lodge Lounge, each VIP Ticket includes the 2025 version of the annual WLS Souvenir Travel Tumbler, unlimited free hot chocolate, an exclusive VIP hot chocolate toppings bar, a S’more kit, a commemorative 2025 Ornament for all VIP Adults, a Light-Up Pop Tube for all VIP children, and a chance to warm up from the cold! VIP Tickets are priced at $35 for adults and $32 for children (ages 2-11) when purchased in advance online; $36 for adults and $33 for children (ages 2-11) when purchased at the event. LV Zoo Members receive a discounted rate of $29 for member adults and $27 for member children when purchased in advance online; $30 for member adults and $28 for member children when purchased at the event.

Group Admission

Special group rates are available for advanced purchase for outings of 20+ people at $13 per ticket and 100+ people at $12 per ticket. To book a group outing, or purchase a corporate block, please call the Zoo during normal business hours at (610) 799-4171.

While guests may spot some of the Zoo’s “night owls” during WLS, most of the animals will be off exhibit.

Please visit winterlightspectacular.com or follow the Zoo on Facebook for daily WLS updates, promotions, contests, weather cancellations and so much more.

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2025 SCHEDULE

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Nature Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

— SmartFun—

LV ZOO’S CONSERVATION GALA SET FOR OCT. 16 AT THE CLUB AT TWIN LAKES
The Zoo’s Annual Fundraiser is Presented by Members 1st Federal Credit Union

(Schnecksville, Pa.) – Lehigh Valley Zoo officially announced its annual Conservation Gala, presented by Members 1st Federal Credit Union, is set for Thursday, Oct. 16, from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Club at Twin Lakes in Allentown. Information about the event, ticket and table sales, sponsorship and the online auction is available at [www.lvzoo.org/conservationgala]www.lvzoo.org/conservationgala.

The Conservation Gala is the non-profit zoo’s largest fundraiser of the year. Proceeds raised at the event help LV Zoo to continue its mission of connecting its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife while being a leader in conservation education and action.

“Partnering with the Lehigh Valley Zoo allows us to support meaningful conservation efforts right here in our community,” said Sara Firestone, Vice President of Community & Public Relations at Members 1st Federal Credit Union. “The Conservation Gala is a celebration of community coming together to protect wildlife and create a lasting impact for future generations. We are honored to help make that possible.”

A unique feature of LV Zoo’s annual gala is that attendees have the opportunity to meet, learn about and interact with several of the zoo’s education animals during cocktail hours (5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.). Additionally, attendees will enjoy hors d’oeuvres and an open bar during cocktail hours, a gourmet meal, the chance to bid on a variety of both silent and live auction items and once-in-a-lifetime animal experiences, support animal enrichment, and learn about how community support directly affects the zoo’s ability to save species. This year’s program will also include information about the Children’s Activity Area – a major, $10 M renovation to the lower part of LV Zoo that began in 2025 with an expected completion date in 2027.

Zoo enthusiasts who are unable to attend the event will also have the ability to bid remotely on the incredible, silent-auction packages generously provided by community supporters by registering at bit.ly/ZooGalaBids.

Semi-formal “Black & White Cocktail Attire” dress is encouraged.

Itinerary

• ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS

o 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

• COCKTAILS & HORS D’OEUVRES

o 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

• DINNER

o 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm

• PROGRAM/LIVE AUCTION

o 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm

• SILENT AUCTION

To inquire more about sponsorships and/or donations, please contact LV Zoo Director of Development Stefanie Timmins at stimmins@lvzoo.org.

LV Zoo is currently operating seven days per week from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at lvzoo.org.

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About Members 1st Federal Credit Union:
Celebrating 75 years of service, Members 1st Federal Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution with more than 600,000 members and $8 billion in assets. With its administrative headquarters in Enola, PA, Members 1st serves its members and communities through its network of nearly 60 branch locations throughout Adams, Berks, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Lycoming, Northampton, Perry and York counties, as well as its robust digital banking and call center channels. As Members 1st honors its 75-year milestone, the organization remains committed to building stronger communities and meaningful relationships. To learn more about Members 1st, visit members1st.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Nature Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

— Smart Fun —

LV ZOO TRAFFIC ALERT: GAME PRESERVE RD CLOSED STARTING MONDAY, August 25th
Please Review Below Prior to Visiting the Zoo

(Schnecksville, Pa.) —Starting Monday, August 25^th Game Preserve Rd will be closed due to a PPL utility upgrade project.  This closure will last for about 3 weeks. This impacts access from Rt. 309 only. Guests arriving via Rt. 100 are not affected.

DETOUR FOR RT. 309 TRAVELERS:

Trucks/Buses (Both Directions): Use Mill Creek Rd (1.8 mi before/after Game Preserve Rd), continue 2.1 mi, turn left on Game Preserve Rd, then right into the Zoo.

 Cars Only (8’2” limit): Use Orchard Rd → Old Packhouse Rd → Ruheton Hill Rd → Game Preserve Rd, then enter Zoo. Please follow the posted detour signs.

VIA RT. 100:

Northbound: Kernsville Rd → Horseshoe Rd → Weidasville Rd → Game Preserve Rd

Southbound: Kistler Rd → Game Preserve Rd

Follow posted detour signs!

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LV ZOO BREAKS GROUND FOR the CHILDREN’S ACTIVITY AREA
Phase 1 of the $10 M Project in the Lower Section of the Zoo Expected to be Complete by Fall

(Schnecksville, Pa.) – Lehigh Valley Zoo hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking Thursday for Phase 1 of the Children’s Activity Area (CAA) in the lower section of the facility. This phase, expected to be completed in the fall, consists of the construction of an accessible playground and a state-of-the-art barn in the reconfigured Fred & Anne Jaindl Family Barnyard.

The entirety of $10 M project, managed by North Star Construction Managementof Allentown, Pa., will be broken down into four phases with an expected completion date of late 2027. Plans were publicly announced in February 2025.

“After months of planning, the zoo and our partners are excited to kickoff of the construction of the first phase of what will be the largest project the Zoo has ever undertaken,” LV Zoo President & CEO Amanda Shurr said. “ By adding an accessible playground and walkthrough barn and barnyard area, we will both enhance our guests experience at our zoo as well as improve the welfare of all of our barnyard friends.”

The new playground, designed by Recreation Resource USA, will feature modern, accessible equipment for children of all abilities. Additionally, the BurkePoured-In-Place Rubber Surfacing is optimal for the safety and accessibility of zoo guests. Tuskes Homes provided the excavation of the former playground and barnyard area as well as the site prep for Phase 1.

The new barn, to be built by King Construction through the support of the Fred J Jaindl Foundation and the David & Jackie Jaindl family, will be open year-round. The walkthrough design of the barn will allow guests to view the animals’ “bedrooms” while allowing them to participate in brushing or feeding barnyard residents that wish to participate. The layout of the barn and barnyard will also have a positive impact on the ability of LV Zoo’s animal care team to support these animals.

The project Is being supported by philanthropy, public support and zoo funding. Information about the CAA and how to become a contributor can be found at lvzoo.org/CAA. Currently, the zoo – a non-profit organization – has raised $3.2 M of its $10 M goal.

The CAA combines state-of-the-art amenities with good old-fashioned fun. The goal is to increase opportunities for guests to get close to animals and see them in an entirely new way; provide new educational opportunities for schools; and highlight the zoo’s conservation work advocating for – and protecting – species around the globe.

Phase Two involves the construction of the Isaacman Family Education Center. The new building, generously supported by Jared and Monica Isaacman, will triple the current capacity for the zoo’s education team to host classes, groups and animal encounters. The center will serve as a state-of-the-art home for many of the zoo’s ambassador animals while also providing an additional set of guest restrooms, a nursing station and changing rooms for the future splash pad.

 Phases Three and Four include the addition of a splash pad and improvements to other amenities in this section of the zoo, such as a marketplace for food and retail concession and a semi-permanent covered seating area for guests of all ages and abilities. The splash pad will encourage guests to stay and play longer while offering relief during the warmer summer months.

Throughout the construction process, several animals will be temporarily relocated until the project is complete.

The CAA marks LV Zoo’s third major construction project in the past three years, as the zoo added Habitat Madagascar – a new exhibit that houses mongoose lemurs, red ruffed lemurs and tortoises – on May 26, 2023, and Rothrock Red Panda Peak on June 7, 2024.

Once the CAA is completed, LV Zoo anticipates an increase in attendance by at least 30,000 guests annually – which will aid in improving animal habitats and wellbeing, while also amplifying the guest experience. The zoo is coming off a record-setting annual attendance, having welcomed 183,414 guests during its 2023-24 fiscal year.

LV Zoo is currently operating seven days per week from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at lvzoo.org.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Nature Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

— SmartFun—

LEHIGH COUNTY, LV ZOO ANNOUNCE CHANGES FOR THE BISON HERD
Herd has been Split into Two Separate Groups for the Safety of the Bison

(Schnecksville, Pa.) —Lehigh County, in conjunction with Lehigh Valley Zoo, has announced changes to the bison herd. Visitors of the Trexler Nature Preserve will now see bison foraging and exploring separate pastures, on either side of the road, for the safety of the herd.

In September of 2024, the passing of the patriarch bison, Big Boy, resulted in a shift of herd dynamics as the remaining males attempted to determine who would become the next leader. Bison social structure is maintained by a dominant bull that leads the herd. Other males in the herd live in a hierarchical structure; one in which each male is subordinate to those above him. After observing the herd for the past five months, LV Zoo’s Animal Care staff determined the need to intervene and manage the heard in two separate groups to ensure the health and safety of each individual member. The herd of 14 bison is now being cared for as two herds of seven bison.

As a single herd, the bison utilized two different pastures in the Trexler Nature Preserve throughout the year. During the winter months, the bison lived in the field just past the elk habitat. In the summer, they were moved across the road into the pasture further uphill. This method of rotation affords the bison fresh grazing when they entered each space, as well as a novel environment to enjoy. Additionally, any manure left in the vacant field would have time to break down and fertilize growing plant life. To manage the two separate herds, both pastures are now being used simultaneously.

It is common practice to separate herd animals living under human care into smaller groupings. This technique can allow for better care of the animals, such as in situations where there is illness or injury, to manage breeding groups, or to separate individuals that do not get along. The Lehigh County and LV Zoo will continue to work together to maintain one herd of bison in the future.

The zoo is making plans to disposition the adult male bison and to bring in a new bull to both lead the herd and to breed. The process involves finding a new home for these bison in other zoological facilities, state or national parks, or preserves. LV Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and will only send animals to approved and suitable locations.

LV Zoo has been entrusted by the Lehigh County to provide exceptional care for the bison and elk in the preserve for more than 20 years. Zoo staff would like to remind guests to the Trexler Nature Preserve that while these amazing animals may look calm and docile at times, they are still wild animals. It is very dangerous to reach through the fence to harass, feed or attempt to make contact with the animals. The safety of animals and guests is the top priority of both the county and the zoo.

LV Zoo is currently open seven days a week and operating under winter hours of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at lvzoo.org. Beginning in April, the zoo will return to in-season hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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LEHIGH VALLEY ZOO ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR CHILDREN’S ACTIVITY AREA
The $10 M Project to the Lower Section of the Zoo will Begin this Spring

(Schnecksville, Pa.) — Lehigh Valley Zoo has officially announced plans for major renovations to the lower section of the facility. The project, named the Children’s Activity Area (CAA), will be completed in four phases with the construction beginning in Spring 2025 and the expected finish in Summer 2027. Highlights of the CAA include an accessible playground, a new barn in the reconfigured Fred & Anne Jaindl Family Barnyard, the Isaacman Family Education Center and a splash pad.

The CAA combines state-of-the-art amenities with good old-fashioned fun. The goal is to increase opportunities for guests to get close to animals and see them in an entirely new way; provide new educational opportunities for schools; and highlight the zoo’s conservation work advocating for — and protecting — species around the globe. The $10 M project will be supported by philanthropy, public support and zoo funding. Information about the CAA and how to become a contributor can be found at lvzoo.org/CAA. Currently, the zoo has raised $2,345,000 of its $10,000,000 goal.

“This project important to our mission, as additional classroom space will allow for a larger portion of the community to partake in our educational programming and learn about animals and conservation,” LV Zoo President & CEO Amanda Shurr said. “It’s important for our guests, as the CAA will provide options for a longer visit with more educational and recreational opportunities; and it is important to our staff, as it will provide improved living areas and amenities for our animals.”

Once completed, the zoo anticipates an increase in attendance by at least 30,000 guests annually. The increase will aid in improving animal habitats and their wellbeing, while also amplifying the guest experience. The zoo is coming off a record-setting annual attendance, having welcomed 183,414 guests during its 2023-24 fiscal year.

Phase One, beginning this spring, consists of creating a new accessible playground and a reconfiguration of the Fred & Anne Jaindl Family Barnyard. The new playground will feature modern, accessible equipment for children of all abilities to be active, as one of the best ways for children to learn is through play.

With support from The David & Jackie Jaindl Family and the Fred J. Jaindl Foundation, guests will be able to walk through a modern barn – which will be open year-round — and see the animal “bedrooms” as well as participate in brushing or feeding those residents that wish to participate. The layout of the barn and barnyard will also have a positive impact on the ability of the zoo’s animal care team to support these animals.

Phase Two involves the construction of the Isaacman Family Education Center. The new building, generously supported by Jared and Monica Isaacman, will triple the current capacity for the zoo’s education team to host classes, groups and animal encounters. The center will serve as a state-of-the-art home for many of the zoo’s ambassador animals while also providing an additional set of guest restrooms, a nursing station and changing rooms for the future splash pad.

“As we started to talk about the current capacity constraints of the zoo, it became very clear that we needed to prioritize a new education center with this project,” Chairman of the LV Zoo Board Jeffrey Drobins said. “The current indoor space was built more than 50 years ago and has very minimal capacity. The new Isaacman Family Education Center will have three times the capacity and I couldn’t be more excited to work with Jared and Monica to make this piece of our project a reality.”

Phases Three and Four include the addition of the splash pad and improvements to other amenities in this section of the zoo, such as a marketplace for food and retail concession and a semi-permanent covered seating area for guests of all ages and abilities. The splash pad will encourage guests to stay and play longer while offering relief during the warmer summer months.

Throughout the construction process, several animals will be temporarily relocated until the project is complete.
The CAA marks LV Zoo’s third major construction project in the past three years, as the zoo added Habitat Madagascar – a new exhibit that houses mongoose lemurs, red ruffed lemurs and tortoises – on May 26, 2023, and Rothrock Red Panda Peak on June 7, 2024.
LV Zoo is currently operating under winter hours of Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at lvzoo.org. Beginning in March, the zoo is back to opening seven days per week.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but it has been treasured community landmark for centuries. Located in the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Nature Preserve, the mission of the Lehigh Valley Zoo is to connect its community with nature to empower people to protect wildlife. We have achieved our mission and educated more than five million people. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Lehigh Valley Zoo hosts year-round, family-friendly events and activities, educational programs, and camps. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

— SmartFun—

Join us to #SupportSelma

Over the past several months, Lehigh Valley Zoo’s veterinary staff has been closely monitoring our 14-and-a-half-year-old Canada Lynx, Selma, due to signs of potential health issues. Through a recent diagnosis, the zoo team was sad to learn that Selma is dealing with non-regenerative anemia, likely caused by cancer.

The veterinary staff first discovered Selma had significant medical issues in the fall during a dental procedure. She was given a full physical exam at that time, which included routine blood testing that revealed several concerning values.

The next step was to get a better understanding of what was causing these abnormalities in her bloodwork. Selma underwent two exams for more advanced diagnostic testing at Valley Central Veterinary Referral Center(VCVRC) — including an ultrasound, gastroscopy and a CT scan. Additional bloodwork taken during these procedures confirmed she may being dealing with cancer. 

After reviewing the test results and conferring with the veterinarians at VCVRC, the zoo team decided that the best option for Selma is to treat her with oral medications aimed at sending the cancer into remission and stimulating red blood cell production. While Selema is currently active and eating well, she is being closely monitored by Animal Care staff for any indication of lethargy, inappetence, or discomfort. The goal is to keep Selma, who has been at the LV Zoo since 2018, as happy and healthy for as long as possible.

How can you help? The zoo is asking for you to share any of your favorite Selma photos in order to lift the spirits of her caretakers and guests that list Selma among their favorite LV Zoo animals (to tell her apart from her habitat mate, Sasquatch, Selma is smaller in size, more grey in color and has longer ear tufts). You can also make a donation specific to her care by clicking HERE.

#SupportSelma