At the Little Rock Zoo
Our Mission is to inspire people to value and conserve our natural world.
We envision a world where nature is in balance and all living things thrive.
The Little Rock Zoo, located in the heart of Little Rock, is one of Arkansas' most cherished destinations. Spanning 33 acres, the Zoo is home to over 400 animals representing over 200 species from across the globe, providing visitors with a unique chance to connect with wildlife and explore the world’s diverse ecosystems.
Founded in 1924, the Little Rock Zoo has grown into a prominent institution dedicated to conservation, education, and community engagement. The Zoo is the only institution in Arkansas accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). This prestigious accreditation highlights our dedication to animal care, conservation, and public education.
The Little Rock Zoo serves as a vital resource for families, offering a fun and educational experience while raising awareness about the importance of wildlife preservation. Our work extends beyond Arkansas, as the Zoo plays an active role in global conservation efforts, helping protect wildlife and their habitats for future generations.
About the Arkansas Zoological Foundation
The Arkansas Zoological Foundation, the Zoo's philanthropic partner, plays an integral role in supporting the Zoo's animal welfare, conservation and education programs. Since its inception in 2003, the foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, raises funds for the growth and development of the Little Rock Zoo and to assist the Zoo in its mission of conservation education.
Past projects funded by the Arkansas Zoological Foundation include the Arkansas Heritage Farm, Diamond Express Train, Cheetah Outpost, and Penguin Pointe. Now, the Foundation is focused on raising funds for a transformative bond project aimed at revitalizing our entry complex and enhancing animal habitats. This initiative will bring new exhibits and upgraded facilities, ensuring a better Zoo experience for generations to come.
Our History
Originally believed to have been established in 1926, recently discovered historical records revealed that the groundwork for the Zoo began in 1924. Its early days were humble. Over the past century, the Zoo has become a beloved community landmark and a leader in wildlife conservation, education, and public engagement.
Protecting Wildlife at Home and Around the World
At the Little Rock Zoo, we are committed to providing the highest standard of animal care while actively supporting global conservation. As Arkansas’s only AZA-accredited zoo, we meet rigorous standards for animal welfare, education, and sustainability—ensuring a meaningful experience for our guests and a brighter future for wildlife.
Our commitment to wildlife conservation reaches far beyond the boundaries of the Zoo. Through our active involvement in global initiatives like AZA SAFE: Saving Animals From Extinction, we join forces with other accredited zoos and aquariums to protect endangered species using shared expertise and the collective power of our communities. At the Little Rock Zoo, we proudly support SAFE programs focused on sloth bears, Asian elephants, and orangutans—alongside other vital conservation efforts made possible by the generosity of supporters like you.
Through these efforts, we are proud to play a role in protecting wildlife—and to inspire our community to help preserve the natural world for generations to come.
Meet the Team Behind the Mission
Director
Susan Altrui
Maintenance
Tony Dawson
Safety & Training
Randell Mitchell
Assistant Director
Fran Lyon
Education
Jessica Briley
Membership
Kelli Enz
Veterinary Care
Dr. Sara Stoneburg
Marketing & Development
Joy Matlock
Guest Experience
Dustin Bean
Conservation & Research
Laura Bernstein-Kurtycz PhD
Special Events
Karyn Langley
Zoo Board of Governors
Ginny Blankenship
Cody Lorge
Shane Carter
Jeff Marcussen
Adrienne Collins
Sharmin Moody
Christy Garrett
Arkansas Zoological Foundation Board of Directors
Lisa Buehler, Chair
Rachel Binkley
Marisa Choate
Layne Hatcher
Greg McCarroll
Mitsy Tharp
Lauren Landers, Vice Chair
Don Bodenner
Kyle Duty
Shannon Hendrix
Kirby Miraglia
Bubba Wood
Jessica Scott, Secretary
VeLois Bowers
Joe Goellner
Melanie Hillard
Jessica Scott
Shana Woodard
Luke Ballard, Treasurer
Chad Causey
Greg Hatcher
Rene Julian
Brad Sims
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