Nashville Zoo is open for business.
The federal government shutdown has created some confusion about whether the zoo is currently open.
“We are receiving a high number of calls, emails and social media posts asking if Nashville Zoo is closed due to the government shutdown,” said marketing director Jim Bartoo. “We believe this is a result of reports indicating that parks and zoos are affected by the federal government. However, Nashville Zoo is not affected by the federal government shutdown. We are a 501(c)3, nonprofit organization that depends on public support to operate.”
While Bartoo said “inquiries have been extensive” he said the confusion has not had a measurable effect on Nashville Zoo attendance.
Nashville Zoo is open every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Since opening in 1991, the zoo has grown from a small, private operation in Cheatham County to an Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited facility with international conservation involvement.
The zoo has over 400 animal species and 2,516 animals. Annual attendance last year was 787,548.
Nashville Zoo operates thanks to 2,600 volunteers contributing more than 34,000 hours of work.