Jennifer Wilson, Director of Communications

Powell, OH –The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and the Wilds will become smoke-free facilities beginning Friday, April 8 joining several other major U.S. zoos – including all other Ohio zoos – that have enacted zoo-wide smoking prohibitions. Prior to this decision, the Zoo and the Wilds included a handful of designated smoking areas.“Our mission to lead and inspire by connecting people and wildlife starts with the health and safety of the animals in our care, Zoo guests and employees,” said Tom Stalf, president and CEO. “Based on comments received from Zoo guests and members of the community, we anticipate a positive response from the vast majority of our more than two million visitors each year.”At the Columbus Zoo and the Wilds, the new regulation will also pertain to electronic cigarettes. Designated smoking areas will remain in Zoombezi Bay and for overnight guests at the Wilds.###Home to more than 10,000 animals representing over 600 species from around the globe, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium leads and inspires by connecting people and wildlife. The Zoo complex is a recreational and education destination that includes the 22-acre Zoombezi Bay water park and18-hole Safari Golf Course. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium also operates the Wilds, a 10,000-acre conservation center and safari park located in southeastern Ohio. The Zoo is a regional attraction with global impact; annually contributing more than $4 million of privately raised funds to support conservation projects worldwide. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Columbus Zoo has earned Charity Navigator’s prestigious 4-star rating.