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25,000-square-foot facility will advance world-class animal care while offering guests a rare behind-the-scenes look at veterinary medicine in action
Zoo Miami today celebrated the groundbreaking of a new, state-of-the-art animal hospital, marking a major step forward in its mission to provide exceptional animal care, strengthen conservation efforts, and deepen public engagement through education and transparency.
The new 25,000-square-foot facility will be located within the zoo’s Blue Zone (formerly Asia) and thoughtfully integrated along a public guest pathway—giving visitors an unprecedented opportunity to observe animal care in action. Through carefully designed viewing areas, guests will gain insight into the science, skill, and compassion required to care for more than 2,000 animals representing nearly 400 species.
Purpose-built to meet the complex medical needs of wildlife ranging from small reptiles to large mammals, the hospital will include radiology and CT imaging suites, surgical and treatment rooms, a full laboratory and pharmacy, and secure animal transport areas.
Designed by Miami-based Stantec and constructed by The Camcon Group, the facility was developed in close collaboration with Zoo Miami’s veterinary professionals to ensure both advanced functionality and animal-centered design.
Key features include:
- Intensive care and specialized recovery wards designed to promote low-stress healing environments
- Dedicated aquatic treatment pools for crocodilians and other aquatic species
- Padded induction stalls and smooth-wall pens for the safe handling of hoofstock
- Wide public corridors and large viewing windows that allow guests to observe veterinary procedures without disrupting care
The hospital will also support year-round training, internships, and educational partnerships, helping prepare the next generation of wildlife veterinarians, technicians, and conservation scientists.
“This groundbreaking reflects our commitment to world-class animal care at Zoo Miami said Miami-Dade County Mayor, Daniella Levine Cava. “This new facility will strengthen and elevate veterinary services and animal welfare across the zoo.”
The $26 million – project is funded through a public-private partnership, with $18 million provided by Miami-Dade County and $6 million raised by the Zoo Miami Foundation. More than 400 donors contributed to the project, including lead support from the Weeks family, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, The Batchelor Foundation, The Dunspaugh-Dalton Foundation, Anthony R. Abraham Foundation, The Tonkinson Foundation, Diane Dickhut, Holloway Family Foundation, The William J. and Isobel G. Clarke Foundation, The Sain-Orr and Royak-Deforest Steadman Foundation, and Florida Power & Light.
“This transformative project reflects how philanthropy and public partnership work hand in hand to advance animal wellness and conservation,” said Jose Romano, President & CEO of Zoo Miami Foundation. “Through the generosity of our donors and community, the Foundation is proud to support Zoo Miami as a leader in animal care with the right resources, innovation, and expertise needed to ensure the highest standards of health and welfare for every animal that calls the zoo home.”
Construction will begin immediately, with completion anticipated in Spring 2027. The new hospital will replace the zoo’s existing 5,600-square-foot facility built in 1983, greatly expanding capacity, technology, and clinical capabilities.
About Zoo Miami
Zoo Miami is the largest and oldest zoological garden in Florida and the only subtropical zoo in the continental United States. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Zoo Miami is home to more than 2,000 animals representing over 400 species and is dedicated to wildlife conservation, education, and providing exceptional animal care. For more information, visit www.zoomiami.org.
About Zoo Miami Foundation
Zoo Miami Foundation is dedicated to fostering a connection between people and wildlife while promoting conservation, research, and education. Founded in 1956, Zoo Miami Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) that supports Zoo Miami through robust Learning Experience programs, supports vital conservation initiatives, and supplements key capital projects that bolster animal welfare and guest experiences at Zoo Miami. With one of the largest membership bases in South Florida, Zoo Miami Foundation continues to make a significant impact connecting with and educating the South Florida community to take conservation action! For more information, please visit http://www.zoomiami.org under Support.
