Zoo Announces New Komodo Dragon Exhibit Coming Soon Hiland Dairy; Laura P. Nichols Foundation Help Make Exhibit Possible

LITTLE ROCK (April 2, 2024) – Little Rock Zoo and Hiland Dairy proudly announced their continued partnership for 2024, standing united in their commitment to community and wildlife conservation. In addition, the two like-minded organizations also announced that Hiland will contribute to the Zoo’s newest exhibit and animal acquisition happening later this year- Komodo dragons.  The Zoo and Hiland made the announcement Tuesday morning against the backdrop of the Zoo's Reptile House and right next to an animatronic version of a larger-than-life version Komodo Dragon.

Hiland Dairy, a long-standing sponsor of the Zoo, has pledged nearly $900,000 in cash sponsorships and product donations over the past several years. Renewing their annual support, Hiland Dairy will contribute to the Zoo's endeavors through both in-kind product donations and cash sponsorships, including backing the new Komodo Dragon exhibit. Also, Hiland will actively participate in the Zoo's upcoming fundraiser, Wild Wines in April. Formerly known as Coleman Dairy, Hiland Dairy takes pride in partnering with the Zoo to enrich educational experiences and family interactive activities across Arkansas.

The Komodo Dragon exhibit highlights the Zoo’s commitment to conservation and Hiland’s collaboration. The Komodo Dragon, native to Indonesia, is considered endangered.  The arrival of the Komodo comes at the recommendation of the Komodo Species Survival Plan® (SSP), a program that cooperatively manages Komodos species in zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) to further conservation goals. This SSP Program coordinates species conservation, research, husbandry, management and educational initiatives.

"We are excited to announce the arrival of Komodo Dragons at the Little Rock Zoo, made possible by the generous backing of both Hiland Dairy and the Laura P. Nichols Foundation," said Susan Altrui, Director of the Little Rock Zoo. "This initiative underscores our dedication to wildlife preservation and offers visitors an engaging opportunity to learn about these remarkable creatures."

Don't miss the chance to explore Dragon Kingdom and witness the thrilling debut of Komodo Dragons at the Little Rock Zoo.

About the Zoo

The Little Rock Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.  Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you and a better future for all living things.  With its more than 200 accredited members, AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation and your link to helping animals in their native habitats.  For more information, visit www.aza.org.