North Alabama Zoological Society

Hope to see you all there!

🎉🐾 Join Us for the 3rd Annual NALZS Kids Festival! 🐾🎉

📅 Date: September 14, 2024
⏰ Time: 10 AM – 4 PM
📍 Location: Calhoun Community College (Main Campus)

Bring your family out for a fun-filled day at the NALZS Kids Festival! There will be vendors, interactive booths, fun activities, animals, and so much more! Our festival is packed with something for everyone – from face painting and caricatures to hands-on science activities. 🚀🎨

🌟 What’s in store?
✅ Passport Booths to visit and collect stamps for a treat at the end!
✅ Drawings for prizes!
✅ Fun activities for the whole family, including the Trash Pandas, Bounce House, and Face Painting.
✅ Tour the helicopter and construction equipment!
✅ Food trucks!

✨ Special thanks to our sponsors:

Host: Calhoun Community College
Gold Sponsor: Hensel Phelps
Silver Sponsor: Redstone Federal Credit Union
Media Sponsor: Rocket City Mom
Hospitality Sponsor: Texas Roadhouse

🎟 Gather your friends, family, and little adventurers and come be a part of this incredible day. 🌿 Together, let’s make lasting memories while supporting the future North Alabama Zoological Society!

Don't miss out on the fun – we can’t wait to see you there! 🐅🦁🐘

* Applications for booths are closed.

🎉🐾 Join Us for the 3rd Annual NALZS Kids Festival! 🐾🎉

📅 Date: September 14, 2024
⏰ Time: 10 AM – 4 PM
📍 Location: Calhoun Community College (Main Campus)

Bring your family out for a fun-filled day at the NALZS Kids Festival! There will be vendors, interactive booths, fun activities, animals, and so much more! Our festival is packed with something for everyone – from face painting and caricatures to hands-on science activities. 🚀🎨

🌟 What’s in store?
✅ Passport Booths to visit and collect stamps for a treat at the end!
✅ Drawings for prizes!
✅ Fun activities for the whole family, including the Trash Pandas, Bounce House, and Face Painting.
✅ Tour the helicopter and construction equipment!
✅ Food trucks!

✨ Special thanks to our sponsors:

Host: Calhoun Community College
Gold Sponsor: Hensel Phelps
Silver Sponsor: Redstone Federal Credit Union
Media Sponsor: Rocket City Mom
Hospitality Sponsor: Texas Roadhouse

🎟 Gather your friends, family, and little adventurers and come be a part of this incredible day. 🌿 Together, let’s make lasting memories while supporting the future North Alabama Zoological Society!

Don't miss out on the fun – we can’t wait to see you there! 🐅🦁🐘

* Applications for booths are closed.

Thanks so much for having us!

📢 Registration is now open for our September chapter meeting! Join us for an exciting luncheon with guest speaker Jan Morrison. Jan is the Development Manager for the North Alabama Zoological Society! We can't wait to hear all about the work being done to bring a zoo to the North Alabama area.

🔗 Register online: https://naprca.org/events/september-2024-chapter-meeting-case-study-bringing-a-zoo-to-north-alabama/

👀 Chapter meetings are more fun with friends! Don't forget to share this post to let your friends know you're going! Members & students get discounted registration fees. See you there!

North Alabama Zoological Society rolls out updated concept map for proposed zoo NALZ celebrates its 5th birthday this month!

Twick and his friends came out for our Indian Creek Greenway and Creekwood Park cleanup. It wasn’t just the kids that got excited. Great to see all the smiling faces!

Green Team

🎉 Exciting Update on Our 5th Birthday! 🎂

As the North Alabama Zoological Society marks five fantastic years, we are thrilled to share a fresh update to the North Alabama Zoo's Conceptual Master Plan, generously provided by BRPH and Perry-Becker Design . 🌿🐾

This latest update not only refines our vision for the zoo but also integrates additional developments by developers that have approached us with where the zoo serves as the central anchor. The comprehensive master plan, which includes these surrounding developments, will be released at a later date, further enhancing our site and visitor experience.

While full details on the adjacent developments are pending, we are eager to present the updated portions of the zoo on our anniversary. This milestone reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation, education, conservation, and community engagement.

Thank you for your steadfast support and enthusiasm. We are excited to move forward together, turning these plans into reality!

🌐 To help keep these plans moving forward, please consider donating: https://donorbox.org/nalzs

Today marks a significant milestone as the North Alabama Zoological Society celebrates five years of wildlife conservation, education, and community engagement. From a dream sparked during a daddy-daughter zoo visit, to the incredible journey of founding NALZS, we've come a long way together!

As we celebrate, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our supporters, volunteers, and community members who share our vision. Your enthusiasm and support fuel our ongoing efforts to bring a world-class zoo to North Alabama.

Here’s to many more years of growth, discovery, and making a difference. 🐾🌍 Let's continue to dream big and work together to make those dreams and the North Alabama Zoo a reality!

🎂 Join us in celebrating this special day and help us keep the momentum going by sharing this post, getting involved, or making a "Birthday" donation. Every little bit helps us get closer to our goal! https://donorbox.org/nalzs

Did you know NALZS has partnered with GreenTeam to help our community?

🌟🌳 Join us for the Creekwood Park Cleanup & Community Engagement Day on August 10th! 🐾🧹

We're mixing fun with purpose—come out, bring your friends and family, and let's make a difference together! 💪🏼 Enjoy a morning of community bonding, getting the 411 on NALZS, meeting ambassador animals and join in on making the park clean for all to enjoy. While you are here you can make memories with the many great amenities; like BYO picnic and enjoy family time with some food, disc golf, bring your dog to the dog park, playground, and more! No need to register, just show up anytime from 8:00am to 10:30am (or later if you want to hang out and chat!).

Location: Creekwood Park, 360 Harvestwood Ct., Madison, AL 35758. (Avoid searching "Indian Creek" on GPS)

Let’s clean up and connect! 🌿💚

🐅🌏 Happy International Tiger Day! 🐯💚 Today, we celebrate these magnificent big cats and raise awareness about the urgent need to protect them. As dedicated zoo supporters, you know how critical tigers are to our ecosystems and how important it is to ensure their survival. Let’s roar together for tiger conservation and learn how we can help protect these incredible creatures! 🐾

Here’s why tiger conservation is crucial:

🌍 **Keystone Species:** Tigers maintain ecosystem balance as apex predators by controlling prey populations, ensuring healthy and diverse habitats.

🌿 **Biodiversity:** Protecting tigers also protects the vast landscapes they roam, supporting countless other species and preserving biodiversity.

💧 **Water Security:** Tiger habitats, like forests, are vital for maintaining watersheds that provide clean water to millions of people and other wildlife.

🦁 **Cultural Significance:** Tigers symbolize strength and courage in many cultures, enriching our natural heritage and inspiring awe worldwide.

Despite their importance, tigers face severe threats, including habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. Here’s how you can help:

- **Support Conservation Efforts:** Donate to or volunteer with organizations dedicated to tiger conservation and habitat protection, like our zoo’s initiatives.
- **Raise Awareness:** Educate friends and family about the importance of tigers and the challenges they face. Spread the word on social media to amplify the message.
- **Promote Sustainable Practices:** Support products and companies that engage in sustainable practices, helping protect tiger habitats from deforestation and degradation.
- **Advocate for Policy Change:** Support policies and legislation that aim to protect tigers and their habitats, and hold governments accountable for their conservation commitments.

On International Tiger Day, let’s pledge to protect these majestic creatures and ensure they continue to thrive in the wild. Share your favorite tiger photos, conservation tips, and stories in the comments! 🐅💚

🌿🌍 Happy World Nature Conservation Day! 🦁🐢 Today, we unite to protect and preserve the natural world that sustains us. As zoo supporters, you know the critical role conservation plays in safeguarding our planet’s ecosystems and the incredible wildlife they support. Let's explore why nature conservation matters and how we can contribute to a healthier planet! 💚

Here’s why nature conservation is crucial:

🌱 **Biodiversity:** Our planet hosts an astounding variety of species, each playing a unique role in maintaining ecological balance. Conserving habitats ensures the survival of countless animals and plants.

🌍 **Climate Regulation:** Healthy ecosystems, like forests and wetlands, absorb carbon dioxide and help mitigate climate change. Protecting these areas is essential for climate stability.

🦁 **Wildlife Protection:** Conservation efforts help protect endangered species from extinction, ensuring future generations can enjoy Earth’s rich diversity of life.

💧 **Clean Water and Air:** Natural ecosystems filter water and air, providing us with the clean resources we need to survive. Preserving these systems is vital for our health.

Here’s how you can help:

- **Support Conservation Programs:** Donate to or volunteer with organizations dedicated to protecting wildlife and natural habitats, like our zoo’s conservation initiatives.
- **Reduce Your Carbon Footprint:** Lower your emissions by using public transportation, conserving energy, and supporting renewable energy sources.
- **Practice Sustainable Living:** Reduce waste by recycling, composting, and choosing eco-friendly products. Every small action contributes to a larger impact.
- **Educate and Advocate:** Spread awareness about the importance of conservation and support policies that protect our natural world.

On World Nature Conservation Day, let’s pledge to take action for the planet. Share your favorite conservation tips, photos of nature, and stories of how you’re making a difference in the comments! 🌿💚

Looking forward to seeing everyone tomorrow. Thank you Burritt on the Mountain for this great event!

Events for July 2024 Burritt on the Mountain is excited to partner with hte North Alabama Zoological Society (NALZS), Avy Elmore with the Alabama Wildlife Federation, and Beth Girard, a retired natural resource educator and Tennessee Naturalist program volunteer, to present Reptile Day. NALZS will bring their reptile am...

🌊🐠 Happy National Marine Week! 🐋🌿 This week, we celebrate the beauty and diversity of our oceans and their vital role in our planet’s health. As zoo supporters, you understand the importance of marine conservation and the urgent need to protect our underwater treasures. Let’s explore why marine conservation matters and how we can all make a difference! 💙

Here’s why marine conservation is crucial:

🌍 Biodiversity Hotspots: Oceans are home to countless species, many unique to these environments. Protecting marine ecosystems ensures the survival of these creatures.

🌐 Climate Regulation: Oceans absorb carbon dioxide and heat, playing a key role in regulating Earth’s climate. Healthy marine environments help mitigate climate change and stabilize weather patterns.

🏝️ Economic Benefits: Marine ecosystems provide food, tourism, and livelihoods for millions globally. Sustainable practices ensure these resources remain available for future generations.

🌊 Oxygen Production: Oceans produce over half of the world’s oxygen through marine plants and algae. Protecting marine life sustains the oxygen supply we all depend on.

Despite their importance, our oceans face threats like pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Here’s how you can help:

Reduce Plastic Use: Minimize single-use plastics to keep our oceans clean. Use reusable bags, bottles, and straws, and participate in local clean-up events.
Support Sustainable Seafood: Choose sustainably sourced seafood to help reduce overfishing and promote healthy marine populations.
Conserve Water: Be mindful of your water use at home to reduce runoff carrying pollutants into our oceans.
Educate and Advocate: Spread awareness about marine conservation and support policies and organizations dedicated to protecting our oceans.
During National Marine Week, let’s come together to celebrate and protect the incredible marine life that enriches our world. Share your favorite ocean photos, marine conservation tips, and stories in the comments! 🌊💙

🐍🌎 Happy World Snake Day! 🐍🌿 Today, we celebrate the diversity of snakes and their vital role in Alabama's ecosystems! As zoo supporters, you understand the importance of these fascinating reptiles in maintaining a healthy environment. Let’s highlight some unique snake species found in Alabama and ways to protect them. 💚

Here’s why snake conservation is crucial:

🌍 Ecosystem Balance: Snakes control rodent populations, helping prevent disease spread and protecting crops. They are essential for ecological balance.

🐍 Biodiversity: Alabama hosts a wide variety of snake species, each contributing to the state’s rich biodiversity. Protecting these species preserves our natural heritage.

🪱 Food Web: Snakes are both predators and prey, fitting into the food web and supporting other wildlife. Their presence indicates a healthy ecosystem.

Notable snakes native to Alabama include:

Eastern Indigo Snake: The longest snake in North America, this non-venomous species is known for its iridescent scales and crucial ecological role.
Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake: One of the largest venomous snakes in North America, it helps control small mammal populations.
Corn Snake: Known for its vibrant orange and red coloration, this species is popular among reptile enthusiasts and aids in pest control.
Despite their importance, snakes face threats like habitat loss, persecution, and road mortality. Here’s how you can help:

Educate and Advocate: Spread awareness about the importance of snakes and debunk myths that lead to unnecessary fear and harm.
Support Conservation Efforts: Donate to or volunteer with organizations dedicated to reptile conservation and habitat protection.
Create Safe Habitats: Make your garden snake-friendly by providing shelter and food sources, and avoid harmful pesticides.
On World Snake Day, let’s appreciate these amazing creatures and commit to their conservation. Share your favorite snake photos, facts, and conservation tips in the comments! 🐍🌿

🌊🪸 It's Coral Reef Awareness Week! 🐠🐚 This week, we celebrate the vibrant and vital coral reefs that support an incredible diversity of marine life. As zoo supporters, we understand the importance of protecting these underwater rainforests to ensure the health of our oceans and the countless species that call them home. 💙

Here’s why coral reef conservation is so important:

🪸 Biodiversity: Coral reefs are home to over 25% of all marine species, providing critical habitats and food sources for countless organisms. Protecting reefs means preserving this incredible biodiversity.

🌍 Climate Regulation: Reefs play a key role in carbon and nitrogen cycling, helping to regulate the Earth’s climate. Healthy reefs contribute to the overall stability of our planet’s climate.

🏝️ Coastal Protection: Coral reefs act as natural barriers, protecting shorelines from erosion and storm damage. They help safeguard coastal communities and ecosystems.

🌊 Economic Benefits: Reefs support fishing, tourism, and recreation, providing livelihoods and economic benefits for millions of people worldwide. Healthy reefs mean a thriving blue economy.

Unfortunately, coral reefs face numerous threats, including climate change, pollution, overfishing, and destructive practices. Here’s how you can help:

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint: Lower your greenhouse gas emissions by using energy-efficient appliances, driving less, and supporting renewable energy sources.
Support Sustainable Seafood: Choose sustainably sourced seafood to reduce the impact of overfishing and harmful fishing practices on coral reefs.
Minimize Plastic Use: Reduce, reuse, and recycle to keep plastic waste out of the oceans, where it can harm coral reefs and marine life.
Educate and Advocate: Spread awareness about the importance of coral reefs and advocate for policies that protect these vital ecosystems.
During Coral Reef Awareness Week, let’s pledge to protect these underwater treasures for future generations. Share your favorite coral reef photos, facts, and conservation tips in the comments! 🐠💙

🌊🦈 Happy Shark Awareness Day! 🦈🌊 Today, we shine a spotlight on one of the ocean’s most misunderstood creatures—the shark! As supporters of our zoo and its mission, we know how crucial sharks are to maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. Let’s dive into why these incredible animals need our protection and how we can help! 💙

Here’s why shark conservation is so important:

🌍 Ecosystem Balance: Sharks are apex predators, playing a vital role in keeping marine populations healthy and balanced. They help maintain the diversity and resilience of ocean ecosystems.

🦈 Biodiversity: By controlling the populations of other marine species, sharks contribute to the overall health and biodiversity of our oceans. Healthy oceans mean a healthier planet for all of us.

🌐 Economic Impact: Sharks are a significant draw for ecotourism, supporting coastal economies around the world. Protecting sharks helps sustain these important economic benefits.

🐋 Scientific Research: Studying sharks provides valuable insights into marine biology, helping us understand more about ocean health and how to protect it.

Unfortunately, sharks face numerous threats, including overfishing, habitat loss, and the demand for shark fins. Here’s how you can help:

Support Sustainable Seafood: Choose seafood that is sustainably sourced to help reduce the impact of overfishing on shark populations.
Raise Awareness: Share facts about sharks and their importance to marine ecosystems. Help dispel myths and educate others about the need for shark conservation.
Support Conservation Efforts: Donate to or volunteer with organizations dedicated to protecting sharks and their habitats.
Reduce Plastic Use: Minimize plastic waste, which often ends up in the oceans, threatening marine life, including sharks.
On Shark Awareness Day, let’s celebrate these magnificent creatures and commit to their protection. Share your favorite shark facts and how you’re helping to protect them in the comments! 🦈💙