ZooMontana and Botanical Gardens

Billings Montana

Listing Type: Zoo
City: Billings Montana
Region: Southeast Montana
406-652-8100
http://zoomontana.org

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ZooMontana is a new regional zoological/botanical garden, the only one of its kind in the Northern Rockies. A habitat, more than a zoo. From ZooMontana's conception it was decided that this zoo should be more than a recreational collection of animals and plants. The goals include (1) the construction of a world-class zoological garden with respect to the quality of the habitats and animal management programs, (2) the development of a comprehensive education program, and (3) the development of a sound conservation biology program. The following are ZooMontana points of interest:

1. Visitors can admire animals in natural settings. Wildlife is kept from visitors by cleverly arranged ravines, cliffs and other natural barriers

2. Combination of botanical and wildlife habitats with a 'biopark' theme, emphasizing the quality of exhibits rather than the quantity of species

3. Major completed habitats include: River Otter, Waterfowl, Siberian Tiger, Sika Deer, Great Horned Owl, Bighorn Sheep, Wolverine, Red Panda, Eastern Gray Wolf, and the Bald Eagle. Phase two plans are being developed for Birds of Asia, Plains ( variety of North American and Asian species), Snow Leopard, and Grizzly Bear habitats

4. Sensory Garden: A one-acre site with a large variety of native and exotic plants designed to delight all of our senses (sight, sound, smell and touch). A Montana Garden: a garden expansion project in progress highlighting native Montana plants. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is being planned for July 2006 in conjunction with the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Celebration. Dottie's Garden: a waterwise garden and memorial showcasing plants that are able to tolerate the varying Montana climate by using little water

5. Homestead Exhibit: Turn-of-the-century homestead house and barn, which includes the Children's Interactive Center. Children can interact with over eleven species of domestic animals in the Center

6. ZooMontana is the only zoo to be honored by a grant from the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). This reflects ZooMontana's level of concern for wildlife

7. ZooMontana receives a great deal of support from individuals, service organizations and companies. In fact, the education program is funded entirely by Wendy's of Montana

8. ZooMontana is a private non profit organization.9. ZooMontana is the only zoo within a 500-mile radius

10. ZooMontana has unique rental facilities available for weddings and receptions, company picnics, meetings, birthdays, etc.

Directions: Take I-90 to Exit 443 (Zoo Drive). Turn left onto Shiloh and zoo is approximately 1/10 mile on the right.

ZooMontana and Botanical Gardens
2100 South Shiloh Road, Billings, MT 59106

Activities
Garden
Playground
Tour
Wildlife Viewing
Childrens Activities
Exhibit
Nature
Photography
Food & Drink
Services
Air Conditioning
Gift Shop
Handicapped Accessible
Parking
Public Restroom
Senior Discount
Snack Bar
Store
Childrens Activities
Instruction

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