The Pueblo Zoo has once again achieved accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), underscoring its commitment to excellence in animal care, education and community engagement. This milestone solidifies the zoo’s reputation as a vital cultural and economic asset in southern Colorado.
The Pueblo Zoo has evolved significantly since its founding as a city operation more than 100 years ago. The zoo transitioned to nonprofit management in the 1990s under the Pueblo Zoological Society, a group of dedicated volunteers who sought to ensure professional care and management for its animal residents.
“This accreditation reflects our unwavering commitment to providing top-tier care for our animals and exceptional experiences for our visitors,” says Abbie Krause, executive director. “It’s a testament to our staff’s hard work and dedication!”
The zoo first earned AZA accreditation in 1992, and has maintained it through rigorous evaluations every five years. The process assesses aspects including animal welfare, safety, financial stability and visitor engagement. “We’re always striving to exceed standards, ensuring that our animals thrive and our visitors leave with a greater appreciation for wildlife,” Krause says.
A recent economic impact study revealed that the zoo exceeds its role as a premier attraction, generating more than $20 million annually for the community through direct and indirect contributions. This includes creating jobs, attracting visitors and enhancing the quality of life in Pueblo.
The zoo is also deeply committed to education, offering programs that serve thousands of local students each year. From field trips to hands-on workshops, these initiatives aim to inspire the next generation of conservationists. “We’ve been a cornerstone of childhood education in Pueblo for decades,” says Krause. “It’s incredible to see the lasting impact we have on young minds.”
Operating as a nonprofit comes with challenges. The zoo relies on a diverse funding model that includes government support, admission revenue and fundraising efforts. Although the model has helped stabilize finances, budget constraints remain a constant concern, particularly as operational standards become increasingly stringent.
“The city’s recent budget cuts have posed challenges, but we’re committed to navigating these obstacles without compromising the care of our animals or the quality of our programs,” Krause says.
The zoo’s small team often wears multiple hats, balancing day-to-day operations with long-term planning. Despite these hurdles, the organization continues to innovate and expand its offerings.
Annual events, like Boo at the Zoo and Electricritters (winter wonderland light display), draw thousands of attendees and offer unique experiences that blend entertainment with education.
The zoo has also introduced Brew at the Zoo, which capitalizes on Colorado’s craft beer culture to attract new demographics. A wine-tasting event in the works will further diversify its programming target audience. “We’re always exploring new ways to engage the community and provide unique experiences,” Krause says.
Winter presents unique challenges, as attendance drops in colder weather. However, the zoo has implemented strategies to maintain visitor interest year-round. Many exhibits feature species that thrive in cooler temperatures.

“Our members love visiting during the winter months because they get to see the animals in a whole new light,” Krause says. “From otters frolicking in the snow to cozy indoor exhibits, there’s always something special to experience.”
As part of its long-term vision, the zoo is planning a major renovation project called Wonder World. This aims to modernize exhibits and create a multi-faceted space featuring a children’s play area, an ambassador animal zone and enhanced educational facilities.
“Wonder World represents the future of the zoo,” says Krause. “It’s about creating a space that not only meets modern zoological standards but also inspires curiosity and learning among visitors of all ages.”
The project is still in the planning stages, but preliminary focus groups and stakeholder meetings have generated interest. The zoo hopes to break ground on the project in the near future.
With its latest accreditation and a steadfast commitment to its mission, the Pueblo Zoo is poised for continued success.
“We’re proud to be a part of this community,” Krause says, “And we’re excited to see what the future holds as we continue to grow and evolve.”
