The John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids is set to close its 2024 season after welcoming a record 800,000 visitors. It has surpassed attendance expectations and become the most-visited institution in Michigan outside of Detroit, as reported by WWMT.
Among the major draws for the zoo this season was the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival, attracting over 175,000 attendees and breaking last year’s record. The festival was part of a series of attractions that drew crowds, including the Dino Adventures exhibition and a bevy of interactive animal experiences, described by WZZM 13. "We’ve had a fantastic 2024 season at John Ball Zoo, and we’re so grateful to every visitor who joined us, made memories and helped support the conservation of wildlife and wild places," Chief Operating Officer Andy McIntyre said in a statement.
New life was a theme at the zoo this year, with the birth of creatures ranging from penguin hatchlings to endangered snow leopards and an eastern mountain bongo. The zoo's conservation efforts were highlighted by the release of over 1,400 endangered Poweshiek skipperling butterflies into the wild following a captive rearing and breeding program.
The zoo will close on Sunday next week, but activities like the pygmy hippo feeding will continue during the winter. The zoo's team remains focused on animal care, educational programs, and conservation efforts. It plans to reopen on March 21, 2025, for another year of initiatives, as per FOX 17.
