News Summary
The Santa Ana Zoo has successfully regained its accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums after losing it in 2017. This achievement reflects the zoo’s ongoing commitment to improving animal welfare and enhancing visitor experiences. As part of a multi-million dollar renovation plan, the zoo is modernizing its exhibits and facilities, including the transformation of its monkey habitats. With renewed accreditation, the zoo aims to attract new personnel and secure funding to further its mission of providing quality care for animals and engaging experiences for guests.
Santa Ana, California – The Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park has successfully regained its accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) after previously losing it in 2017. This significant milestone reflects the zoo’s commitment to improving animal welfare and enhancing guest experiences.
During the AZA’s annual conference in Tampa, Florida, the Santa Ana Zoo was one of 31 successful applicants for accreditation. This renewed status, granted on September 15, is valid for five years and requires a renewable application process to maintain standards. The achievement is seen as a validation of the extensive work undertaken by the zoo’s staff and management.
The Santa Ana Zoo lost its previous accreditation due to inadequate monkey habitats, which were found to be inconsistent with modern zoological practices. A longstanding 50-monkey quota, established by Joseph Prentice, the original donor of the land, had also posed challenges in managing the monkey population. However, an amended deed from 1954 discovered three years ago enabled the zoo to retire this quota. Currently, the zoo houses 38 primates, which include 30 different species of monkeys.
As part of its efforts to modernize, the zoo is undergoing significant renovations. A noteworthy project includes transforming the “Monkey Row” into a new area called Primate Forest, part of a multi-million dollar renovation plan. Additional new exhibits are set to debut soon, including River’s Edge, which will feature habitats designed for spider monkeys, golden lion tamarins, and howler monkeys, with an expected completion by the end of the year. Other improvements encompass landscaping upgrades and ongoing maintenance projects.
Mayor Valerie Amezcua emphasized the importance of the zoo as a crucial component of the city’s recreational facilities, recognizing its value to community engagement and education. AZA accreditation is widely regarded as the national standard for animal care and guest interaction in zoological institutions, further underscoring the significance of the zoo’s latest accomplishment.
With the renewed accreditation, the Santa Ana Zoo may see improvements in staff retention, attract new personnel, and enhance collaboration with other accredited zoos and organizations. Additionally, this status opens avenues for securing grants from foundations and corporations to further support the zoo’s mission.
Recent construction projects at the zoo include a new alligator enclosure and a Goat Interaction Yard, designed to engage children and provide educational experiences. Moreover, the zoo has recently started selling alcoholic beverages, specifically beer and wine, at its cafe, which is available for guests ages 21 and over.
The Santa Ana Zoo operates with an annual budget of approximately $3.7 million, which is significantly less than that of larger institutions like the Los Angeles Zoo and San Diego Zoo. Originally opened in 1952, the Santa Ana Zoo initiated its accreditation journey in 1985. Over the years, the zoo has undergone substantial changes, moving away from previous limitations associated with land donation agreements.
Looking forward, a total of $70 million is planned for future renovations and construction, aimed at improving animal habitats, elevating care standards, and enhancing visitor experiences in accordance with contemporary practices. The Santa Ana Zoo remains committed to its mission of providing a safe and educational environment for both animals and visitors alike.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Santa Ana Zoo Regains Accreditation
- Wikipedia: Santa Ana Zoo
- OC Register: Santa Ana Zoo Construction Projects
- Google Search: Santa Ana Zoo
- San Bernardino Sun: Zoo and Aquarium Emergency Evacuations
- Google Scholar: Santa Ana Zoo Accreditation
- OC Register: Santa Ana Zoo Accreditation Appeal Denied
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Zoo Accreditation
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
