Lion Country Safari honored for 25 years of zoo accreditation

Kandoro was the first of two giraffes born at Lion Country Safari in late 2022. [Photo by Lion Country Safari]

Visitors may know Lion Country Safari for its giraffes, rhinos and other animals. A new honor recognizes the work behind the experience.

The Loxahatchee park has received the Association of Zoos and A Accreditation Quarter Century Award for maintaining AZA accreditation for 25 consecutive years. First accredited in 2001, Lion Country Safari was among 13 institutions honored in September. Naples Zoo was the only other Florida recipient.

Baby Aziza with her mother, Anna, at born at Lion Country Safari in 2021. [Photo by Lion Country Safari]

“We are proud of each institution for its commitment to upholding the highest standards in animal care, well-being, conservation, safety and more,” AZA President and CEO Dan Ashe said in the award announcement.

A newborn plains zebra stands beside her mother in the Hwange section of Lion Country Safari. [Photo by Lion Country Safari]

To maintain accreditation, institutions undergo a review every five years. Inspectors examine animal care, veterinary practices, conservation, education and safety before an independent commission decides whether to renew accreditation.

Lion Country Safari has been part of western Palm Beach County since 1967. Its 320-acre property includes a drive-through safari and The Gardens, a 55-acre walkable area. When the park announced its 2022 accreditation, it said inspectors had praised its veterinary care, management of rhinos and other hoofed animals, conservation and education programs, and staff commitment.

Two African lion cubs were born April 21 at Lion Country Safari to 5-year-old first-time mother Mara and father Vander, who welcomed his second litter. [Photo by Lion Country Safari]

Some animal care happens through training. Keepers teach giraffes to place a foot on a special block, allowing staff to clean or trim hooves and take X-rays while the animals participate voluntarily.

Through school programs, the park teaches children about wildlife and habitats. The park also takes part in 21 AZA Species Survival Plan programs, which coordinate the care of species under human care. The park says it has restored wetland habitat, provided nesting areas for native wildlife and installed a station that tracks migrating animals.