August 22, 2025
The Abilene Zoo reopens its Caribbean Cove exhibit on August 22 with new upgrades and species.
Friday is opening day for the Caribbean Cove exhibit at the Abilene Zoo, following a year-long renovation.
Caribbean Cove has been considered a guest favorite, and after a year, it has undergone upgrades which zoo officials say will provide an even more immersive and engaging experience. They promise that visitors will be transported into a vibrant tropical world where they can discover wildlife from across the Caribbean and beyond.
The area now showcases redesigned habitats that bring guests closer to the animals than ever before, set against lush landscaping that captures the vibrant essence of the tropics. Habitats have been expanded by more than 200% and now feature mixed-species environments for a truly authentic wildlife experience. Renovated and newly built warm-holdings provide year-round comfort for the animals while ensuring guests can enjoy viewing opportunities even during colder months. Accessibility has also been enhanced with widened pathways, expanded viewing areas, and ADA-compliant sand diggers in the “Bahía Tortuga” sandbox, allowing wheelchair users to fully participate in play. Bahía Tortuga itself has tripled in size, now offering shaded areas, additional sand diggers, and water features for families to enjoy together.
The Director of the Abilene Zoo, Jesse Pottebaum said, “Caribbean Cove has always been a place where our community could step into a vibrant tropical world.” He said that “With these upgrades and news species, we’re bringing guests closer than ever to tropical wildlife while also sharing important conservation stories.”
Zoo officials say Caribbean Cove will continue to highlight some of Abilene Zoo’s most beloved species in refreshed habitats, making it a must-see destination for visitors. Guests can admire the slow charm of two-toed sloths, watch energetic squirrel monkeys swing and climb through their lively new space, and marvel at the unusual adaptations of prehensile-tailed porcupines. A tropical aviary adds to the experience, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the Caribbean through a variety of colorful bird species. Caribbean Cove will also welcome exciting new arrivals, including three species of toucans, three-banded armadillos, and boat-billed herons—broadening the wonder and discovery for every guest.
Guests can enjoy Caribbean Cove for the remainder of the summer. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through September 14.
