Potawatomi Zoo prepares for opening day with new attractions

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The Potawatomi Zoo is gearing up for a new season filled with exciting updates and experiences for visitors. 

From fan-favorite attractions from giraffe feedings to new attractions across the grounds, zoo officials say this year is about growth and enhancing guest experiences. 

Kyle Etheridge, Zoo Guest Experience Director, says, "So you’ll start seeing the animals out more often, you’ll start seeing the plant life bloom and bloom and come around, so as we open for the season, the zoo comes to life too and that’s really special to me."

Executive Director Josh Sisk says the team is also excited about new features debuting this year. 

"Really excited to introduce our new train. Everyone knows the train at the zoo, and to be able to have a brand-new electric train to give kids that experience is gonna be awesome for everyone," says Sisk. "One of my favorite, most exciting things is gonna be our new rhino, Franky, who’s coming from the Brevard Zoo. If everyone remembers our rhino, Masamba, went to the wilds for breeding. This year we’re introducing a new male; he’s a thousand pounds heavier than Masamba but just as friendly so everyone’s gonna be excited to meet him."   

In addition to the train and rhino, the zoo is continuing to work on several major projects, including a future exhibit expansion known as Big Cat Tracks, expected to modernize habitats and improve animal care. 

Last season brought more than 400,000 visitors through the zoo's gates, and officials hope continued improvements build on that momentum. 

The Potawatomi Zoo officially opens for the season Saturday at 10 a.m.