Mahali pa Kifaru
(Place of the Rhinoceros )
Rhino Fun Facts
 Visitors will connect to nature in a BIG way at Mahali pa Kifaru. A one-acre area in the southwest
quadrant of the Zoo will be transformed into a spectacular habitat for black rhinoceros. Breathtaking
outdoor overlooks will allow families and students to view these massive animals in a whole new way.
The public will enter a state-of-the art holding building to observe the rhinos during keeper training
sessions or in inclement weather. This building will be located in a simulated African village as will
much-needed public restrooms and a new food concession. Concept plans for the habitat were created by exhibit specialists  at WDM Architects, who have completed similar projects at zoos nationwide. Critically
endangered by poaching for the international rhino horn trade, in American zoos the species is managed
by an A.Z.A. Species Survival Plan. As a cooperating member, the Pueblo Zoo will exhibit two males
initially, providing vital space that is every bit as important as breeding. The planned habitat will provide
space for future transition to a breeding group.
Wildlife Learning Center
From its beginning in 1976, the Pueblo Zoo education program has achieved outstanding success. It has
expanded continually, until today, it makes more than 25,000 student contacts each year. Specially
developed programs reach students beginning in pre-school. Programs are designed by professional staff
and presented primarily by volunteers—dedicated Zoo Docents, who must complete extensive training
and who devote many hours to providing exciting, engaging animal and nature-based experiences for
young and old.
To be situated near the Zoo’s entrance, the 5,700 sq. ft. building will provide two large classrooms, a
biofact storage room, and climate-controlled facilities with an adjacent exercise yard to house the small
animals that accompany most programs. In addition, large restrooms will serve not only the Learning
Center, but also those who rent the Mandari group picnic shelter south of the new facility. Upon
completion of this new facility, education staff will vacate their area in the current building, which will
allow expansion of the gift shop as well as provide badly needed office space, work areas, and a room for
birthday parties, an important revenue source.
Practical sustainability has been designed into the project.
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