NEWS RELEASE: Race to the Wilds for Jack Hanna Day, Tours and More!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APRIL 28, 2011

CONTACT:
Jennifer Wilson
Communications Manager
Office: 614-645-3579
Cell: 740-398-8371
jennifer.wilson@columbuszoo.org

RACE TO THE WILDS FOR JACK HANNA DAY, TOURS AND MORE!

Cumberland, OH ‘“ Rhinos and cheetahs and giraffes oh my! Dash to the Wilds for the 2011 season which kicks off on April 30th at this year’s Ecothon followed by Jack Hanna Day on Memorial Day, May 30th, and the Wilds official season opener on June 1st.

If you haven’t been to the Wilds or if you’re ready to experience the Wilds in a new way, summer 2011 promises to exceed expectations, said Bobbie Dozer, Director of Visitor Operations at the Wilds.

On April 30, serious runners and casual walkers alike are invited to participate in the Ecothon, presented by AEP Ohio. This 10K Trail Run, 5K Trail Run or 5K Trail Walk through the scenic environment of the Wilds helps support the important conservation science and education programs that the Wilds offers.

Jack Hanna will also be visiting the Wilds on Memorial Day to mingle with guests and give animal presentations on several tours throughout the day including a lunch and Open Air Safari Tour, Wildside Tour and Sunset Safari Tour. For more information, pricing and tour schedules visit .

In addition, visitors to the Wilds have new adventures and experiences to choose from all season long. Several activities including horseback riding on hillside trails, zip lining through the open range animal areas, fishing in the Wilds’ beautiful ponds and new tour options geared toward younger visitors ensure that there is something for everyone.

We’ve worked hard all winter to create some great new opportunities for our visitors during the 2011 season ‘“ fishing safari, zip lines, horseback riding and the addition of the Kids Animal Encounter which provides opportunities for children to have up close experiences with some Columbus Zoo animals, Dozer added. We’re gearing up for one of our most exciting seasons yet.

The Wilds opens daily at 10 a.m. and closes at 4 p.m. during the months of June, July and August and is open Saturdays and Sundays in May, September and October. There are not enough hours in the day to experience all of the exciting new activities at the Wilds, but with a membership, the opportunities are endless! For more information and to learn more about membership opportunities visit www.thewilds.org .