Zoo Series-Flamingo

Daily Photo

One drop at a time, the tiny Eureka zoo is making big changes. Not all of them good.

Established over 100 years ago, it is one of the smallest facilities to be accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association and the only one between San Francisco and Southern Oregon. Nestled in the Sequoia Park, an enormous wall of redwoods towers over the enclosures but the exhibits and animals appear cozy and accessible to toddler and adult alike. As a whole, the animals and enclosures are not exotic.  There is a definite lean towards explicating the local wildlife which is exciting.

Over the last few years,rennovations have revitalized the place.  Unfortunately, this, and other issues,  has forced the zoo to require admissions.  Rightfully, this is controversial.  The former cement enclosures had to go but the admission price makes it unlikely that low income families will be able to enjoy the beautiful new exhibits.  We purchased a family membership for $46 a year which is certainly reasonable but I can’t help believing that the zoo has now become a gated community.  My child is on the inside but how many have been left outside with no access to the beauty behind the gates.