Spring break is typically one of the busiest weeks of the year for the Fort Worth Zoo, but the pandemic forced the zoo to close last year. This year, the zoo is open, but reservations are required.
"You're also reserving a time slot," says the Fort Worth Zoo's Avery Elander. "This is just helping us control the flow of guests in and out of the park at any given time."
People can make reservations on the Fort Worth Zoo's website.
The Fort Worth Zoo still requires masks for visitors and employees. Visitors are allowed to take their masks off while eating, drinking or taking pictures.
Visitors say most people were wearing masks at indoor exhibits. Many took their masks off outside or when they took pictures.
"It's wonderful," one woman said. "It's a great day, and the weather's great."
"They have hand sanitizing stations all over, so we've been doing that," another visitor said. "I think they're doing everything they can to allow people to get out and enjoy the day and be COVID-cautious. We try to keep our distance as much as possible, trying to be cautious and courteous to the people around us."
The zoo has set up paths to encourage people to move in the same direction among the exhibits. The zoo has been using timed entry and enhanced cleaning procedures since reopening last May 29.
Elander says a mask requirement would not be enforceable after the governor lifted the order, but the zoo still has signs up encouraging people to wear masks.
"We've got 64 acres of space to come in, spread out, enjoy a day at the zoo," Elander says. "Make some memories, feed a giraffe, observe some animals up close. We're ready for people to be here. Spring break is a popular time. It's always been popular for us."
In addition to the reservation system, the Fort Worth Zoo is still cleaning railings and other "high touch" areas more frequently.
