The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) today honored the Philadelphia Zoo with the AZA Exhibit of the Year Award for its Bank of America Big Cat Falls. The Exhibit of the Year Award is presented by the AZA for outstanding dedication to conservation issues and construction of exhibit space replicating species natural habitats.
“This award is such an honor for us here at the Philadelphia Zoo,” says Vikram H. Dewan, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Zoo. “Bank of America Big Cat Falls is truly a one-of-a-kind exhibit and we are so proud that our exhibit has been recognized by the AZA. We sincerely hope that guests enjoy their experience here as we further our mission of conservation of animals from around the world. The Zoo is all about connecting families, wildlife and the environment we share - this exhibit does just that.”
“We are proud of the Philadelphia Zoo for its commitment to excellence in every way,” said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. “The Exhibit of the Year Award is recognition of the Philadelphia Zoo’s significant commitment, creativity and passion for wildlife conservation and education.”
“Bank of America is delighted the Philadelphia Zoo has received this distinguished honor for Bank of America Big Cat Falls,” says Daniel K. Fitzpatrick, President, Bank of America Pennsylvania. “We are proud to support such a unique and rich regional attraction through our partnership with the Philadelphia Zoo for families throughout the area to enjoy. This award demonstrates the Philadelphia Zoo’s primary mission of conservation and respect for the world’s animal population - a mission that Bank of America is proud to support."
Bank of America Big Cat Falls’ 1.7-acre footprint features five spacious outdoor exhibits for 19 big cats—an African savanna for lions, a Central American rainforest for jaguars, the Siberian forest for Amur tigers and Amur leopards and rocky Pennsylvania woodlands for pumas—with nearly 300 species of plants and trees highlighting the diverse climates of these big cat habitats. The $21 million Big Cat Falls exemplifies the Zoo’s modern approach to fulfilling its mission—an exhibit that showcases compellingly beautiful animals in a naturalistic setting, dramatically improves animal care and integrates unique ways to connect our guests to these magnificent cats and inspire action on their behalf.
The Philadelphia Zoo is American's first zoo and one of the region's foremost conservation organizations. It is home to nearly 1,300 animals, many rare and endangered. The Zoo, fulfilling its mission of conservation, science, education and recreation, supports and engages in conservation efforts to protect endangered species around the world. The Philadelphia region's leading family destination, the Zoo welcomed more than 1.2 million visitors last year. The Philadelphia Zoo is accedited by the Assocation of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). For more information please visit www.philadelphiazoo.org.
Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. Visiting a zoo or aquarium featuring the AZA logo is assurance that guests are supporting an institution dedicated to providing excellent care for animals and a better future for all living things. With its more than 200 accredited members, the AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation. For more information, please visit www.aza.org.