A trip to Chattanooga Zoo over the next two weekends offers not only a chance to see the grounds illuminated for the season during Holiday Lights but a look at residents on the zoo’s Adopt-an-Animal list.
But don’t worry about carting one home. “There is no litter to clean, no visits to the vet and no chewed-up shoes, as the adopted animals will stay right where they are,” said a news release.
“Adopting one of our animals makes for a completely unexpected and unique gift this holiday season,” said zoo Director Darde Long. “Each year, the animals eat thousands of pounds of fresh fruit, vegetables and meat. They also need a lot of unique and specialized care. By adopting one of the animals, your support will be used specifically to feed and care for that animal.”
Animals in need of adoption include the snow leopard, jaguar, red panda, chimpanzee, cotton-top tamarin, Burmese python and cougar. Each adoption package comes with a species information packet, personalized certificate of adoption, 8-by-10 color photo of the animal, a Chattanooga Zoo decal and other gifts.
IF YOU GO* What: Holiday Lights.* When: 5:30-8 p.m. today, Saturday and Dec. 17-18. Dreamnight for special-needs children is Thursday. Pets welcome both Fridays.* Where: Chattanooga Zoo, 301 N. Holtzclaw Ave.* Admission: $8 adults; $6 seniors 65 and older; $5 children 3-15. Dreamnight is free with reservations.* Phone: 697-1339.
Another way to help the animals is to donate to the zookeeper wish list. The list of needed items includes sugar-free juices, cereals, peanut butter, jellies, Nutella, canned tuna and chicken, marshmallow cream, unsalted mixed nuts, dried fruit, cinnamon, nutmeg, basil and sugar-free pudding and gelatin.
“Donating something as simple as food and supplies helps us to continue our mission of providing excellent animal care and improving our facilities,” Long said.
The winter wonderland of lights, open tonight, Saturday and Dec. 17-18, also includes holiday games, crafts and visit with Santa Claus.
Pets are welcome on both Fridays, though they must be on leashes, current on vaccinations and display good behavior.
Thursday is Dreamnight for guests with special needs and their families and caretakers.