$9.3 million from state will renovate big cat habitats at Como Zoo

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On Sunday, May 17, the Senate passed a comprehensive, bipartisan $1.2 billion bonding package (HF 719 passed 60-7 and HF 2484 passed 52-15). The two bills invest in Minnesota’s shared state assets like public colleges and universities, water and sewer systems, roads and highways, and more. It includes a $9.3 million investment in repairs at the Como Zoo’s Big Cat Habitat, chief authored by Senator Clare Oumou Verbeten (DFL-St. Paul).
 
“I am delighted that the 2026 bonding bill will help pay for critical improvements at the Como Zoo’s Big Cat Habitat,” said Senator Oumou Verbeten. “The resident lions, tigers, cougars, snow leopards, and wolves and their many visitors will experience renovations that provide world-class animal welfare standards and ‘nose-to-nose’ views that Como guests have known for generations. The result will be a more accessible, welcoming exhibit that is free for all to visit and enjoy. I look forward to these revamped exhibits and the joy they will bring to zoo visitors for years to come.”

Bridge deterioration forced closures in July 2022, limiting access. Without reinvestment, Como said it may need to close the habitat – nearly one-sixth of the Zoo’s exhibits – and decommission the collection.

The proposed Big Cats and African Animal Exhibit will feature newly designed habitats for lions, leopards, servals, and other African species. These immersive environments will honor Como’s long tradition of offering unforgettable, up-close experiences, including the beloved “nose-to-nose” views guests have enjoyed for generations.

The new habitats will prioritize animal welfare and wellness through thoughtfully designed living spaces that support natural behaviors and species-specific needs, according to information from Como Zoo. The exhibit will incorporate dedicated areas for operant conditioning training, natural enrichment, off-exhibit holding, and modern veterinary care facilities.

In 2024, $1.9 million people visited Como Zoo, including 7,954 school children from 306 education programs across the state. Nearly half of the visitors are families with household incomes under $50,000.