Annnnd the moment you’ve all been waiting for… We are thrilled to announce that Asia will open on March 1, 2027! The new continent will be the Zoo’s first major development in more than 30 years; the last was the North America Continent section in 1994. 🐅 The 12.5-acre Asia region will feature innovative habitat designs and bring nearly 50 new species to the Zoo, including critically endangered Malayan tigers, Visayan warty pigs, white-cheeked gibbons, and Chinese alligators, among others. Bird and reptile enthusiasts will also be able to enjoy close-up views of vibrant and elusive species from across Asia, including Komodo dragons, demoiselle cranes, blue-crowned laughingthrush, king cobras, four-eyed turtles, crocodile monitors, and more. “We can’t wait for guests to meet these enchanting residents, learn from them, and discover ways to protect their wild habitats and cousins,” says Zoo Director and CEO Dr. Mark Penning. “Asia marks an important milestone in the Zoo’s 52-year history. The expansion will utilize new technology, showcase the Zoo’s most extensive botanical garden with more than 6,000 new plants, and invite guests to look high, low, and all around as they explore new pathways and ideas.” As a part of the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the Zoo is excited to bring this new legacy to the great state of North Carolina.