Renovations are complete and the public is again welcome at the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium’s interactive stingray exhibit.
Stingray Beach closed last summer following the deaths of multiple stingrays. Zoo officials said the renovation process began with a comprehensive evaluation of the systems that support aquatic animal health.
Enhancements were made to life support systems, water biofiltration equipment and water chemistry monitoring protocols to support long-term habitat stability and animal wellbeing. The work was led by the zoo’s animal care, health and life support teams.
Interactions with the animals are now more limited. Visitors can still observe cownose stingrays and trained zoo employees will be present to facilitate interactions and feeding opportunities.
Zoo president and CEO Luis Padilla said the connections between the public and marine life are important.
“Stingrays are incredible ambassadors for our oceans, and meeting them connects us to the complexity of life that we strive to protect and conserve,” Padilla said. “We are excited to welcome guests back to Stingray Beach, and provide an educational, fun experience around these magnificent animals.”