Archive
Make Their Deaths Count – Zoo CEO Speaks on the Tragedy at Sloth World
In an article originally published in the Orlando Sentinel on Aug. 30, 2026, our Zoo’s CEO, Richard Glover, speaks on the tragedy of the Sloth World situation. In it, Richard shares his perspective on what we can learn from the incident and the changes that must be made to prevent something like this from happening […]
Richard Glover
Endangered Florida panther kitten finds new home at Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
Abandoned at just eight weeks old, the young panther will now help educate Zoo guests about one of Florida’s most endangered species A critically endangered Florida panther kitten with a big story is now calling the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens home. Earlier this year, the female kitten was discovered in the wild and […]
Jeffrey Ehrlich
Big Guy leaves lasting legacy at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
For more than four decades, Big Guy the spider monkey was a familiar and beloved face at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. As the venerable leader of the Zoo’s spider monkey troop, he welcomed generations of guests, formed special bonds with his care team and played an important role in the future of […]
Jeffrey Ehrlich
A local’s guide to the top things to do in Sanford
Heading to Sanford and wondering what to do while you’re there? We’ve got you covered. Just north of Orlando, Sanford is one of Central Florida’s hidden gems, offering a mix of outdoor adventures, wildlife, local history, waterfront views and a lively downtown scene. Whether you’re planning a family day trip, a weekend outing or simply […]
Jeffrey Ehrlich
Red, White & Indigo brings a wild celebration to the Central Florida Zoo
Get ready for a wildly patriotic celebration of 250 years of the United States and the incredible animals that call America home!This Labor Day weekend, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is turning up the fun during Red, White & Indigo: Celebrating Wild America on Saturday, September 5, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.The […]
Jeffrey Ehrlich
Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild, presented by Publix, returns for 7th year at Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
This holiday season, Orlando’s most dazzling tradition will once again illuminate the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. The magical displays of Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild will return on select nights from November 13, 2026, to January 17, 2027. Central Florida’s well-known grocery store, Publix, will also return as the...
Jeffrey Ehrlich
Things to do in Orlando besides theme parks
Central Florida is known to be one of the biggest hotspots for theme parks all over the world. When most people think about Orlando, parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios are what usually comes to mind, but Orlando has a lot more to offer beyond the roller coasters. Whether you’re looking to take […]
Jeffrey Ehrlich
Central Florida Zoo welcomes two female giraffes
SANFORD, Fla. (June 25, 2026) – Big things are happening at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens—especially if you’re the tallest land mammal in the world! The Zoo is excited to announce the arrival of two female giraffes from another AZA-accredited facility. Guests can now see the four-year-old female giraffes in the...
Jeffrey Ehrlich
Stay cool: Things to do in Orlando in summer
Summer in Central Florida can mean searching for things to do in Orlando that are fun and keep you cool at the same time. But here’s the thing: keeping the whole family comfortable doesn’t mean you have to spend the whole season indoors. From splash pads and water parks to air-conditioned attractions, there are plenty […]
Jeffrey Ehrlich
Central Florida Zoo announces passing of Willow the sloth
SANFORD, Fla. (June 16, 2026) – The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is saddened to announce the passing of Willow, one of the sloths that arrived at the Zoo from Sloth World on April 24. Over the past several days, Willow’s health declined despite ongoing veterinary treatment and intensive supportive care. After closely...
Jeffrey Ehrlich
