It is no exaggeration to say that the Columbus zoo is one of the best in the United States of America. More than two million people visit it annually. Seven thousand animals, representing more than 800 species, constantly live there. The territory of the zoo occupies 234 hectares, 164 of which are reserved for animal welfare.
The first zoo in Columbus appeared in 1905. However, it closed for unknown reasons after working for only five months. After 22 years, the zoo that can be seen today has opened. In the 20th century, the zoo's directors changed several times. Citizens remember with the greatest gratitude Jack Hahn, who managed the zoo from 1978 to 1993. During his work, Hahn replaced the usual cages with aviaries that resemble natural habitat. This has increased the number of visitors several times. He personally went and collected garbage after the end of the working day. His enthusiasm and desire to make the zoo a place of attraction made employees work harder than they should.
In 2004, the residents decided by a general vote to expand the area of the zoo. This made it possible to place a much larger number of animals on the territory. Now the zoo even owns a part of the Zambezi Bay, a golf course, and a small amusement park.
Curiously, all the animals that are kept in the Columbus zoo are divided by region: the animals of North America are in one zone, the animals of Asia, Australia, and Africa in another. This approach allows you to see the continental differences between animals and their features. And for those who explain geography and biology to children, this approach greatly facilitates the work.
In addition to keeping animals, an active scientific activity is being conducted at the zoo. In particular, a large number of operations are performed on sick animals. Those who cannot conceive and give birth to a baby are given in vitro fertilization. This method helped to give birth to cheetah cubs.