LITTLE ROCK (October 28, 2025)— As the holiday season approaches, many of us will find ourselves untangling boxes of lights—only to discover strings that no longer work or cords that have seen better days. Instead of tossing them out, you can give those old lights a new purpose and help protect one of the planet’s most iconic species: the African lion.
Beginning November 1, 2025, the Little Rock Zoo is kicking off its annual Lights for Lions recycling drive. From November 1, 2025, through January 31, 2026, guests and community members are invited to drop off used or broken holiday string lights and extension cords at the Zoo’s front gate. You don’t even need a ticket to participate—just look for the collection box outside the entrance.
How It Works
The Zoo partners with TRG in North Little Rock to recycle donated lights and cords. This not only keeps these items out of local landfills, but also raises funds that go directly to the Lion Recovery Fund—a global initiative dedicated to doubling the wild lion population by 2050.
At the Little Rock Zoo, our resident lions—Amboseli, Saphira, and Inara—remind us daily of the beauty and power of this species. By recycling your old lights, you’re helping to ensure their wild counterparts have a future in Africa’s grasslands and savannas.
What to Bring (and What Not to Bring)
We gladly accept:
- Holiday string lights
- Extension cords
Please do not bring ornaments, wire light displays, lawn décor (such as deer), or plastic stakes. For larger donations, call 501-371-4589 to coordinate.
Make a Difference Beyond Recycling
Even if you don’t have lights to donate, you can still support lions in need. Consider making a direct contribution to the Zoo’s conservation efforts—every gift helps protect wildlife around the world.
Small Action, Big Impact
It may seem like a small act, but each light strand you recycle through Lights for Lions adds up to meaningful support for global conservation. Together, we can shine a light on the importance of protecting lions for future generations.
Photos by Karen Caster
