MILL MOUNTAIN ZOO: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 24, 2025

For More Information Contact:

Niki Voudren, Executive Director

niki@mmzoo.org | (540) 343-3241, Option 9

Mill Mountain Zoo, Roanoke, Virginia

mmzoo.org

Mill Mountain Zoo Celebrates Animal Care Team During National Zookeeper Appreciation Week

Roanoke, Virginia —Mill Mountain Zoo proudly shines a spotlight this week on the extraordinary individuals who care for its animals every single day — the dedicated and compassionate members of our animal care team.

Zookeeping is more than a job — it’s a calling. Every day, our keepers work in a constant state of awareness, caring for animals that are injured, endangered, or capable of causing harm, while ensuring smooth daily operations and holding deep responsibility for beings that depend entirely on them. Their work doesn’t stop when their shift ends. The weight of vigilance lingers long after the day is over.

From feeding and training to habitat maintenance, veterinary care, enrichment, and guest education, our animal care team plays a vital role in every aspect of zoo life. Behind the scenes, they manage complex routines and make thoughtful decisions that directly impact animal health and well-being. Whether preparing specialized diets, implementing enrichment strategies, or monitoring animal behavior in all weather conditions, their work is critical, constant, and deeply skilled.

“The job of a zookeeper is physically demanding, emotionally taxing, and mentally intense — and yet they do it with unwavering dedication, grace, professionalism, skill, and a deep love for the animals and the mission: wildlife and conservation. Our zookeepers care for our animals as if they were their own children. They’re always observing, anticipating, and problem-solving. No one cares more for these animals than our zookeepers. Even on their days off, they carry the weight of that responsibility in their hearts and minds. If you see one of our keepers this week, be sure to say THANK YOU! They deserve it more than words can express,” said Niki Voudren, Executive Director.

Rain or shine, in extreme heat, snow, or ice — our zookeepers give their all. National Zookeeper Appreciation Week offers a chance to recognize these behind-the-scenes heroes who make the Zoo a safe, nurturing environment for our animals and an inspiring place for guests.

In celebration of National Zookeeper Appreciation Week, Mayor Joe Cobb will visit Mill Mountain Zoo on Thursday, July 24th at 11:00 AM to present an official proclamation recognizing the critical work and dedication of Mill Mountain Zoo’s animal care team and their contributions to our community.

If you visit Mill Mountain Zoo this week and see one of our animal care professionals, please join us in saying THANK YOU. Their passion, strength, and commitment make everything we do possible.

About Mill Mountain Zoo

Mill Mountain Zoo is governed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and accredited by the Zoological Association of America (ZAA), demonstrating excellence in animal welfare, safety, and ethics on a national level.

All animal residents are critically endangered, threatened, vulnerable, or non-releasable due to injury, captive birth, or owner relinquishment. The Zoo participates in national and international Species Survival Plans, humane research, and conservation initiatives.

Located atop Mill Mountain, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Mill Mountain Zoo has been a Roanoke institution since 1952. Operated by the non-profit Blue Ridge Zoological Society of Virginia, Inc., the Zoo is dedicated to promoting appreciation and understanding of wildlife and habitat preservation through quality exhibits, educational programming, and collaboration with other conservation organizations.

Mill Mountain Zoo upholds three core beliefs: excellence in animal care, conservation management of endangered species, and fostering science education through its animal collection.

‍