AZA ZOOS ALONG THE EAST COAST BRACE FOR CONTAGIOUS HIGHLY PATHOGENIC AVIAN INFLUENZA (HPAI)AFFECTING BIRDS FROM SOUTH CAROLINA TO MAINE

(Schnecksville, PA) – This week, the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the presence of a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in the U.S., along the North American Atlantic flyway. With confirmed cases in South Carolina, Virginia, Delaware, Kentucky, Indiana, New York and Maine, identified in commercial and non-commercial flocks, HPAI is highly contagious among wild and domestic birds, causing extreme illness and or possibly death.

As a result of the highly transmissible nature of HPAI, Zoos along the east coast have started to implement enhanced safety precautions to protect the birds in their care. Working together to share timely and critical information, animal care teams at Lehigh Valley Zoo, Adventure Aquarium, Philadelphia, Elmwood Park, Brandywine, Erie , Maryland and Pittsburgh Zoos — supported by the USDA and APHIS — have elected to move the most susceptible species indoors to eliminate contact with wild birds on zoo grounds. Other precautions taken include higher levels of biosecurity for birds, personal protective equipment for staff; and restricted access to bird areas.

“The LV Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and proudly demonstrates how we are upholding some of the highest standards in the field,” Curator Maggie Morse said. “This is evident by our quick response to protect our resident birds from HPAI by working with other local AZA Zoos, our on-staff veterinarians and our animal care team. Our most at-risk species have been moved off exhibit and will be monitored by our dedicated staff. We will continue to keep a close eye on positive cases of HPAI ensuring we continue to provide excellent care to our Zoo residents.”

LV Zoo’s on-site veterinarians have started implementing an established protocol that was created to mitigate and keep our animals safe from outbreaks such as HPAI. At this time, due to the proximity of positive cases, barnyard birds, waterfowl and penguins have been brought inside since they are most at risk. Should cases be reported closer to the Lehigh Valley, the staff is prepared to act quickly to safely move the rest of our birds off exhibit.

Committed to protecting the birds in their care, the Zoos listed above will continue to work closely with each other, the USDA, the State Veterinary Medical Officer, APHIS and the Department of Public Health to stay current and abreast of any new updates. With many strains of the same virus, experts are still working to estimate how long this virus can affect birds in the U.S.

Symptoms of HPAI in birds include sneezing, coughing, walking or swimming in circles, and swelling of the legs and feet. Although wild waterfowl are the most common carriers, they are often asymptomatic while birds of prey, such as hawks and owls, and scavengers, such as crows and gulls, may show more severe infection. Other animals susceptible, include carnivores, non-human primates, and pigs with possible infection occurring after the animal consumes an infected bird or consumes food that has been contaminated an infected bird. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recent HPAI detections in birds do not present an immediate public health concern, with no human cases detected in the U.S.

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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 Game Preserve, we have educated and entertained 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. Through a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

In order to avoid driving issues or delays, please use one of our preferred routes on your way to the Zoo.

For vehicles over 8 feet tall (school buses, coaches, delivery vehicles, etc.), please either use one of the Rte 100 routes or the Vendor/Truck/Bus routes via 309.

   Preferred Routes   

At 14 years old, Naya was past the median life expectancy of North American river otters in the wild. As a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), LV Zoo is committed to providing its animals with optimal welfare that allows them to thrive longer than their wild counterparts.

During Naya’s annual exam, LV Zoo veterinarians found a mass near her uterus. The mass was successfully removed during surgery last week, after which time Naya was closely monitored by LV Zoo staff. While she initially appeared to be recovering well, Naya declined rapidly and — despite staff efforts — ultimately passed away.

While mourning the loss, LV Zoo staff will be keeping a close eye on Luani as he adjusts to this change.

Since her arrival, Naya became known for her back flips and playfulness as she and Luani happily swam the waters of their habitat inside the Lehigh Valley Health Network North American River Otter exhibit. LV Zoo members and guests are encouraged to share any photos or memories of Naya on social media.

Guests can visit Luani during LV Zoo daytime winter hours of Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The LV Zoo is closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day; though Winter Light Spectacular will open at 5 p.m. on New Year’s Day.

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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 Game Preserve, we have educated and entertained 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. Through a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Our otterly adorable female North American river otter, Naya, is approaching 14, which is past her typical life expectancy. During Naya’s yearly exam, our veterinarians found a mass near her uterus. To help us further investigate what this mass could be we took Naya to our partners at Valley Central for a full CT scan which gave us a better look.

The surgical team at Valley Central was then able to assist our staff veterinarians Dr. Householder and Dr. Prevolos with removing the mass so we can send off samples to find out what it is and what other treatments Naya may need. She is now recovering comfortably behind the scenes receiving lots of extra attention from her dedicated keepers and veterinarians. They will also be keeping a close eye on her partner Luani so they can safely reintroduce them when she is ready!

Keeping our animals happy and healthy is a group effort and we are so thankful for our community and our partners who help us keep our animals in good health.

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Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, animal welfare, education, science, and recreation. AZA is the accrediting body for the top zoos and aquariums in the United States and 12 other countries. Look for the AZA accreditation logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. The AZA is a leader in saving species and your link to helping animals all over the world. To learn more, visit www.aza.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 Game Preserve, we have educated and entertained 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. Through a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

This past August, the Zoo underwent a rigorous inspection process to ensure it is not only meeting, but also exceeding the high AZA standards in animal welfare, guest engagement, education and conservation.

According to AZA, the accreditation process includes a detailed application and a meticulous, on-site, multiple-day inspection by an independent team of trained zoological professionals. The inspecting team observes all aspects of the facility’s operation, including animal welfare and well-being; veterinary care; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff, and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; financial stability; risk management; governance; and guest services. Accreditation is required every five years for member institutions.

“The communities where these 22 zoos and aquariums are located should be proud their local aquarium, zoo or nature center is among the best zoological facilities in the world,” said AZA President and CEO Dan Ashe. “The process to receive AZA accreditation is rigorous, and continues to include ever-increasing standards to ensure that the animals’ best interests are always first and foremost. We are excited and proud to have these top-notch zoos and aquariums as AZA members.”

Located within the scenic 1,100-acre Trexler Nature Preserve in Schnecksville, Pa., LV Zoo is home to nearly 300 animals representing more than 125 species – from African Penguins to Zebras. The Zoo hosts more than 200,000 guests annually and offers hundreds of educational programs, camps for all ages and family-friendly events, making it one of the most vibrant educational and cultural institutions in the Greater Lehigh Valley region. Open to the public year-round, the Zoo is operated by the Lehigh Valley Zoological Society, a private, non-profit organization.

“There are approximately 2,800 licensed animal exhibitors across the United States, but less than 10% of them meet the rigorous standards of the AZA accreditation,” said Amanda Shurr, President and CEO of the LV Zoo. “It takes the entire Zoo team working extremely hard to make this happen and I am very proud of our team’s commitment to not only meet, but exceed these standards. We work hard every day to ensure that our animals are receiving the very best care and our guests have the best experience they can, and this accreditation is a testament to those efforts.”

The Zoo is proud to continue to be a resource for the Lehigh Valley, representing the “gold standard” of AZA.

“Lehigh County is thrilled to learn, after a vigorous and thorough inspection audit, that the prestigious Association of Zoos and Aquariums has reaccredited Lehigh Valley Zoo,” said Rick Molchany, Director of General Services, County of Lehigh. “This is an accomplishment that places the animal husbandry, medical planning and conservation efforts on par with the best conservation efforts across the top zoos worldwide.”

Currently operating under winter hours, LV Zoo is open for daytime admission Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Additionally, the Zoo is in the midst of hosting its eight-annual Winter Light Spectacular, presented by Service Electric and sponsored by T-Mobile, through Jan. 1, 2022. For a full schedule or to purchase tickets, please visit www.winterlightspectacular.com.

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Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, animal welfare, education, science, and recreation. AZA is the accrediting body for the top zoos and aquariums in the United States and 12 other countries. Look for the AZA accreditation logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. The AZA is a leader in saving species and your link to helping animals all over the world. To learn more, visit www.aza.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 Game Preserve, we have educated and entertained 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. Through a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Lehigh Valley Marshmallow Company to Become “Official S’mores of Winter Light Spectacular”

(Schnecksville, PA) – Winter Light Spectacular (WLS) has been the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season since 2014. Going into its eighth year, WLS is excited to perfect a popular holiday treat, as Lehigh Valley Zoo has announced a partnership making Bethlehem-based Stuffed Puffs® the “Official S’mores of Winter Light Spectacular.”

With four fire pits throughout the zoo, making s’mores has always been part of the family tradition at WLS. This year, Stuffed Puffs® Classic Milk Chocolate Filled Marshmallow will make s’mores easier and better with their fluffy vanilla marshmallow stuffed with real milk chocolate that melts from the inside out.

“The only thing better than the perfect s’more is enjoying one in the festive environment at Winter Light Spectacular,” said Amanda Shurr, President & CEO of the LV Zoo. “Not only are we thrilled to offer Stuffed Puffs® Filled Marshmallows, but we are truly appreciative to be partnering with a company based here in the Lehigh Valley.”

WLS, presented by Service Electric and sponsored by T-Mobile, is scheduled for 35 dates this season, spanning from Friday, Nov. 12, through Saturday, Jan 1. Tickets are on sale now at winterlightspectacular.com.

Located at the LV Zoo and set up by Christmas Decor, 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 the Stuffed Puffs® fire pits, WLS features 1.2 million lights – a total more than any other Pennsylvania attraction, classic holiday scenes, numerous family photo opportunities, hot chocolate and so many other holiday treats. There will also be live performances every night featuring popular princesses Anna & Elsa, Belle and Cinderella. Revenue from the event supports animal conservation projects and programs at the LV Zoo.

Ticket prices for WLS 2021 remain the same as last year: $15 for adults, $10 for children (ages 2-11) and $8 for LV Zoo Members, prior to online processing fees. Infants (ages 0-1) are free and there is no fee for parking. VIP Tickets priced at $30 for adults and $25 for children are available in limited quantities.

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

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Stuffed Puffs® has redefined the marshmallow category as one of the only innovative brands to ever fill marshmallows with real milk chocolate. Founded in 2019 by Michael Tierney, Stuffed Puffs® believes that Life Is More Fun Filled™ and that is meant quite literally. Their Classic Milk Chocolate Stuffed Puffs® melt from the inside out for the perfect S’more. They also can be used as a staple ingredient in baking, cooking, hot cocoa, or devoured straight out of the bag. BIG bites™ filled and coated marshmallows are the latest addition to the Stuffed Puffs’ collection of everyday flavors filling that sweet treat craving. Stuffed Puffs core line of Classic Milk Chocolate, Chocolate-on-Chocolate, and Cookies `n Crème Filled Marshmallows and NEW Big Bites™ S’mores, Birthday Cake and Cookies n Creme are available at stuffedpuffs.com and can be found at many Walmart locations nationwide. For more information, visit stuffedpuffs.com or Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

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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 Game Preserve, we have educated and entertained 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. Through a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Located at the 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 family photo opportunities, multiple fire pits, hot chocolate and so many other holiday treats. There will also be live performances every night featuring popular princesses Anna & Elsa, Belle and Cinderella. Revenue from the event supports animal conservation projects and programs at the LV Zoo.

For the second consecutive year, WLS will require advanced ticket purchases and a timed-ticketing system set for two-hour sessions. This modification significantly improved the guest experience in 2020 by greatly improving traffic flow into the Zoo and positively impacting parking availability.

Ticket prices for WLS 2021 remain the same as last year: $15 for adults, $10 for children (ages 2-11) and $8 for LV Zoo Members, prior to online processing fees. Infants (ages 0-1) are free and there is no fee for parking. VIP Tickets priced at $30 for adults and $25 for children are available in limited quantities and include WLS admission as well as a 2021 Souvenir Mug and unlimited free hot chocolate ($10 value), a Smore’s kit ($4 value), a family photo voucher — for one of six different scenes ($5 value) and a chance to warm up from the cold with access to the Jingle Lodge Lounge (priceless).

A special rate for group outings of 20+ people is available for advanced purchase at $12.50 per ticket with two additional complimentary tickets per every 20 tickets purchased. In addition, a corporate rate is available for the advanced purchase of 100+ anytime tickets at $10 per ticket.

Looking for a unique holiday party for your employees, family members or friends? Cocktail parties for groups up to 50 people in the Jingle Lodge Lounge include food, soft beverages, a cozy fire, animal mingles and a place to warm up during your visit to WLS.

To book a group outing, or purchase a corporate block, or learn more about boking a holiday party, 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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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 Game Preserve, we have educated and entertained 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. Through a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Calm Waters Coffee Roasters is based in Bristol, Pennsylvania. Calm Waters provides the Lehigh Valley Zoo with delicious bags of whole bean coffee originating in Marcala, Honduras. Flavor notes of this light roast include mandarin orange, cocoa, and walnut, which are sure to leave you craving more!

On top of its outstanding flavor, this coffee is Bird Friendly® certified – the gold standard of eco-friendly coffee. According to Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, “the Bird Friendly® certification ensures that the coffee originates from farms using a combination of foliage cover, tree height, and biodiversity to provide quality habitat for birds and other wildlife.” This means that with every cup of Bird Friendly® coffee that you brew, you are protecting biodiversity – especially migratory birds – from the threat of deforestation.

All Bird Friendly® certified coffee is 100% organic and 100% shade grown, meaning the coffee beans are grown underneath the forest canopy. This is in opposition to sun grown processes, which are driven by deforestation to plant rows and rows of coffee beans under direct sunlight. While sun grown coffee produces a larger yield, shade grown coffee is richer and more complex in flavor due to the length of time needed for the beans to grow.

It is a part of the Lehigh Valley Zoo’s mission to demonstrate leadership in the conservation community, and our friends at Calm Waters Coffee Roasters are helping us to do just that by brewing a more sustainable world! To purchase a bag of Bird Friendly® coffee, simply visit the Lehigh Valley Zoo’s Nature Store during regular daytime hours (10am-4pm now through October 31st, 10am-3pm beginning November 1st). Or, visit the Nature Store’s Online Gift Shop at ShopLVZoo.com anytime! Additionally, during select dates in October and November, keep an eye out for Bird Friendly® coffee samples and meet some of our knowledgeable Education Specialists to learn about the importance of buying Bird Friendly®.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but as a treasured community landmark, the Zoo’s history spans over a century. Founded in 1906 by General Harry C. Trexler, a local industrialist, the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve has educated and entertained 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. With a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook @LVZOO.

Magdalena, a six-year old who arrived last spring, is Lehigh Valley Zoo’s female Mexican Gray Wolf. Mollete is the father of both Stratus and Garza.

During the past few months, Lehigh Valley Zoo has worked diligently with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) under its Species Survival Program (SSP) for Mexican Gray Wolves to find the best pack members for Magdalena. The Mexican Gray Wolf SSP works in conjunction with U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service for the conservation of this species. This makes the Lehigh Valley Zoo an important partner in the effort to provide space for Mexican Gray Wolves to increase their numbers in zoos and in their native habitats.

While this process can be quite lengthy, it helps ensure that Magdalena is paired with the best pack-mates genetically and personality-wise. After searching through multiple options, it was determined that Mollete and his two sons would be an ideal recommended match. The Zoo will continue to work with the SSP to be considered as a site for breeding in future years.

Once on site, an introduction process between the pack members was safely conducted behind the scenes to get the new members acquainted with one another. Now that they have passed their introduction process, they can go on exhibit and explore their new habitat! At this time, we request guests remain quiet when approaching the exhibit as our pack members adjust; as silence will best increase the opportunity to see the wolves.

Lehigh Valley Zoo is one of approximately 50 zoos and conservation centers helping to rehabilitate Mexican Gray Wolves. This subspecies was nearly brought to extinction by widespread trapping and poisoning in the early 1900s. After reintroducing Mexican Gray Wolves, there are more than 113 in the wild and approximately 300 in the captive breeding program. By supporting AZA accredited zoos and aquariums, you can help save species like the Mexican Gray Wolf.

To see the newest pack, be sure to visit Lehigh Valley Zoo by purchasing tickets at lvzoo.org/ticketing.

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but as a treasured community landmark, the Zoo’s history spans over a century. Founded in 1906 by General Harry C. Trexler, a local industrialist, the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve has educated and entertained 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. With a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook @LVZOO.

Lavender comes to us from our neighbor ZooAmerica and was hailed a training super star by their animal care team. Her current caregivers will be doing training sessions in her home throughout the day to continue working on cooperative husbandry behaviors. This will give her the choice to participate in her own care here at the zoo! In the future guests will get an opportunity to see training at the Zoo once she becomes more adjusted.

If you would like to catch a glimpse of her in her new home (past the otter exhibit), please be sure to keep a close eye out. While she is adjusting to her new home, we’re giving her more opportunities to hide and meet guests by choice. We’re so excited to have Lavender as part of our Lehigh Valley Zoo family and for our guests to see how we build relationships with our animals. 

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As a member-supported non-profit organization, Lehigh Valley Zoological Society was founded in 2004, but as a treasured community landmark, the Zoo’s history spans over a century. Founded in 1906 by General Harry C. Trexler, a local industrialist, the Lehigh Valley’s Trexler Game Preserve has educated and entertained 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. With a mission to create a safe, engaging and enlightening wildlife experience for guests of all ages, the Zoo demonstrates leadership in the cultural, scientific and conservation communities. To learn more about Lehigh Valley Zoo, we invite you to visit our website, www.lvzoo.org, or follow us on Facebook @LVZOO.