North Carolina Zoo Grieves Giraffe Leia
The North Carolina Zoo is grieving the loss of Leia, a 15-year-old giraffe, who has been a beloved part of the Zoo family since 2010. Leia passed away on Tuesday, July 15, 2025.
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Press Releases
North Carolina Zoo Mourns the Passing of Director Pat Simmons
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources announces the passing of Pat Simmons, Director & CEO of the North Carolina Zoo, on July 14, 2025.
North Carolina Zoo Launches Free Bilingual App to Enhance Guest Experience
The North Carolina Zoo is launching a new mobile app, now available for free download on both Apple and Android devices. Designed to support guests of all ages and abilities, the app is available in English and Spanish, offering an engaging, inclusive way to experience the world’s largest natural habitat zoo.
North Carolina Zoo Named 'Best Zoo' in the Nation for a Second Year in a Row
The North Carolina Zoo (Zoo) in Asheboro has officially been named America’s “Best Zoo” according to Newsweek’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. The Zoo preserved its spot on the leaderboard after previously claiming the top spot in the nationwide contest in 2024.
North Carolina Zoo Earns Botanical Garden Accreditation
The North Carolina Zoo is now accredited as a botanical garden by Botanic Gardens Conservation International.
North Carolina Zoo Welcomes Survivors of Hurricane Helene
Residents from counties in the direct path of Hurricane Helene can receive discounted entry to the North Carolina Zoo through Dec. 24.
Baby Baboon Joins Band at North Carolina Zoo
The North Carolina Zoo recently welcomed a new Hamadryas baboon, Winnie, on June 16.
North Carolina Zoo Celebrates 50 WILD Years with C’sar Elephant
C’sar, the North Carolina Zoo's original elephant, recently celebrated his 50th birthday.
North Carolina Zoo Ranked “Best Zoo” in the Nation
The North Carolina Zoo has earned two national “Top 10 Readers’ Choice" awards in the last six months.