Boise’s Red Panda Boom: Zoo Conservation Meets Family-Friendly Adventures
Welcome to Boise, Idaho – a city known for its breathtaking scenery, outdoor activities, and vibrant community. But what many visitors and locals may not know is that Boise has recently become home to a booming population of red pandas. These charming creatures have not only captured the hearts of families and animal enthusiasts, but they are also playing a crucial role in zoo conservation efforts. In this article, we will take a closer look at Boise’s red panda boom and how the city’s commitment to family-friendly adventures is intersecting with wildlife conservation.
Zoo Conservation in Boise
Boise is home to one of the oldest zoos in the country – Zoo Boise. What originally started as a small menagerie in 1907 has now evolved into a 20-acre zoo, showcasing over 200 animals from around the world. But the zoo’s success doesn’t just come from its diverse selection of animals and interactive exhibits – it also comes from its commitment to conservation.
Through partnerships with various conservation organizations, Zoo Boise plays an active role in preserving endangered species and their habitats. In fact, the zoo’s conservation efforts have been so impactful that it was selected as one of the top ten zoos in the country for conservation in 2017 by USA Today. This commitment to conservation extends beyond just raising awareness, but also includes providing crucial financial support through fundraising efforts. And one of the latest animals to benefit from these efforts is the red panda.
The Red Panda Boom
What’s a Red Panda?
If you’re not familiar with these adorable creatures, you’re in for a treat. Red pandas, also known as the “firefox,” are native to the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China. These small mammals are classified as “vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and are facing population decline due to habitat loss and poaching. But thanks to the efforts of organizations like Zoo Boise, their numbers are now on the rise.
How Did it Happen?
In 2018, Zoo Boise joined forces with the Red Panda Network and launched the “Idaho Power Red Panda Exhibit.” The goal was to bring red pandas to the zoo and educate visitors about their endangered status. What started as an ambitious initiative has now turned into a huge success – Zoo Boise has welcomed three red pandas into their family and has seen an increase in visitors due to the new exhibit.
But it’s not just the zoo’s efforts that have contributed to the red panda boom. Local businesses in Boise have also joined in to support conservation efforts. One company, Big Dipper Ice Cream, created a special flavor called “Red Panda Tracks,” where a portion of the proceeds go towards supporting Zoo Boise’s red panda exhibit. This collaboration between Zoo Boise and local businesses is a perfect example of how a community can come together to make a positive impact on wildlife conservation.
Family-Friendly Adventures at Zoo Boise
Zoo Boise’s red panda exhibit is more than just a conservation effort – it’s also a family-friendly adventure. Visitors can now get up close and personal with these beautiful animals as they roam and play throughout their habitat. And for those looking for a more interactive experience, Zoo Boise offers a “Red Panda Encounter” where visitors can meet the zoo’s red pandas and their keepers for a behind-the-scenes experience.
But the fun doesn’t stop there – Zoo Boise also has a variety of other family-friendly activities and exhibits to enjoy. From giraffes and penguins to a “Butterfly Garden” and “Sloth Bear Encounter,” there’s something for everyone at the zoo.
The Impact on the Community
Aside from being a popular tourist destination, the growth of Zoo Boise and its red panda population has had a positive impact on the local community. The zoo’s partnerships and efforts have not only brought in more visitors, but it has also created new jobs and contributed to the local economy. This positive impact has not gone unnoticed, as Zoo Boise was named the 2019 “Tourism Business of the Year” by the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce.
Wrap Up
The combination of zoo conservation and family-friendly adventures has proven to be a winning formula for Boise’s red panda boom. Not only are these charming creatures helping to raise awareness for endangered species, but they are also bringing the community together in support of a great cause. So the next time you’re planning a trip to Boise, make sure to add Zoo Boise’s red panda exhibit to your itinerary – it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
