Rolling Hills Zoo is Kansas’s gem – a 65 acre, with more than 110 different species of animals, gem. I came across it on a road trip through the state – saw its billboards and on the way back thought let’s reach out and arrange a time for viewing. I didn’t know what to expect; I was blown away.
On my tour I really saw the connection between the staff and the animals. The love is most mutual. There is no doubt about the happiness, and the comfort of every animal while providing them with a
naturalistic environment. All the animals at the Rolling Hills Zoo participate in their own care, meaning; they don’t put them under when the caretakers or veterinarians attend to them. Yup, that is amazing trust in the relationship.
Rolling Hills Zoo is a non-profit accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) that participate in conservation programs on the local, national, and international levels. It is as much a zoo as an education center.
The lay out is very easy for all ages to explore with places to rest and play. I believe as many people as possible should see the amazing animals and appreciate their beauty. Most of all, learn how important the preservation of the environment is. There are tons of education programs offered to all ages at the Zoo, kids especially, will love it!
You can visit many zoos and not see some of the animals you will at the Rolling Hills Zoo, including: Amur Leopards (84 in the wild 🙁 ), Sichuan Takin and the magnificent Snow Leopard:
If you are not impressed yet there is also a 64,000 square foot museum featuring probably one of top dioramas with state of the art animatronic robots in the US. It is very interactive, including sounds. Every time you will walk through it you will have a different experience. It is superbly designed.
The museum tells beautiful and very realistic stories of many habitats and the connection to humans.
Did I mention that the animals there love to paint?? Yes, they sure do! Make sure to check out the art section on your way out. Here is a painting I bought that a Rhino painted with his butt (no way I am not buying that!):
2019 is the Rolling Hills Zoo’s 20th anniversary; stay up to date on the latest info, any special event or more information by checking out their website here.
Cheers to many more years!