The Chattanooga Zoo will be hosting its newly revamped annual Cocktails for Conservation event, Wild at Heart on Friday, Feb. 13. This event will continue to raise funds specifically for the Zoo’s many conservation initiatives while bringing awareness to the significance of protecting endangered species, but with an emphasis on the importance of mating and breeding, said officials.
Guests are invited to spend an evening at the Zoo on Feb. 13 from 6-8 p.m. while enjoying
cocktails, light hors d’ oeuvres, keeper chats, animal training, behind the scenes tours, and up
close animal encounters, all for a good cause. This Valentine’s Day themed event is for
sweethearts and singles to come enjoy the Zoo at night while learning about the conservation
efforts of the Chattanooga Zoo.
Proceeds from this event will go directly to benefit the Chattanooga Zoo’s many conservation projects including the breeding of Hellbenders, the largest salamanders in North America, and Kihansi Spray Toads, a species of toad that is completely extinct in the wild. In addition, monies raised will be used to support the Zoo’s partnerships with the Zoo Conservation Outreach Group, Snow Leopard Trust, and Argentine Jaguar Conservation Project. Funds will also go toward the participation of the Chattanooga Zoo in Special Survival Plans for endangered species. The
Chattanooga Zoo currently participates in over 20 SSP programs representing Bali Mynahs, Chimpanzees, Komodo Dragons, Red Pandas, Bushmasters, Meerkats, Pied Tamarin, and more.
“The funds we raise at this event will allow us to continue our critical conservation efforts so that many of the world’s most fascinating and beautiful animals do not become completely extinct, “says Zoo CEO and President Darde Long.
Advance tickets to Wild at Heart are $20 a person. Day of ticket sales will be $25 for Zoo Members and $30 for Non-Members. All guests must be 21 years of older to attend. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.chattzoo.org.