Amarillo Zoo’s Big Transformation: From City Run to Wildlife Sanctuary

One of the great things about Amarillo is that our city has a zoo, and it is the only one within 50 counties in the Texas Panhandle and West Texas. While it’s smaller than big-city zoos, it still gives visitors the chance to see animals you wouldn’t normally find in our area. That said, many residents feel the zoo has lost its appeal and isn’t worth visiting anymore.

Why the Amarillo Zoo Needs a Mission Shift

The City of Amarillo has done the best it can, but funding has always been the biggest challenge. The city would love to invest millions into the zoo, but that just isn’t possible.

On Tuesday, October 28, 2025, the executive director of the Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (WWWRC) presented a proposal to the Amarillo City Council regarding the Amarillo Zoo. The proposal calls for turning the city-operated facility into a nonprofit organization.

The goals for the Amarillo Zoo include expanding the zoo, improving animal care, and creating long-term sustainability.

Stephanie Brady’s Track Record in Wildlife Rehab

Stephanie Brady has over 30 years of experience in wildlife care and conservation.  She is a former veterinary technician who specializes in internal emergency and wildlife medicine.  She serves on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Rehabilitation Council. In 2016, Brady founded the WWWRC, which now cares for about 3,100 animals each year with the help of staff and volunteers.

The WWWRC started without any funding, but by 2024, the organization had grown to over $1 million in assets.  That is a 1,634% increase in 7 years.

What Are Some of the Changes Proposed for the Amarillo Zoo

• Transition the Amarillo Zoo into a nonprofit.
• Rename it the Amarillo Zoo and Sanctuary.
• Improve habitats and enclosures.
• Add a veterinary clinic on-site.
• Partner with local universities for student training.
• Expand education and conservation programs.
• Add a combined gift shop and café.
• Develop new sections and immersive experiences.

What the Nonprofit Model Means for the Zoo

The transfer to a non-profit status would open the door to grants, charitable donations, and corporate sponsorships. Turning the Amarillo Zoo into a nonprofit would free up city funds and taxpayer money to be used where it’s needed most.

Read More: Chilly Adventures: How Amarillo Zoo Animals Embrace Winter

Will the Amarillo Zoo and Sanctuary Be Accredited?

Another goal for the Amarillo Zoo and Sanctuary would be accreditation through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, which the Amarillo Zoo, in its over 70 years, hasn't achieved. The Amarillo Zoo and Sanctuary would be its own entity that would include local representation and a board of directors.

The plan for the Amarillo Zoo and Sanctuary would include a paid staff of 18 with support from AmeriCorps and volunteers.  The City of Amarillo would have ownership of the property while leasing it to WWWRC.

Addressing Staff, Property, and Financial Logistics

The Amarillo City Council commended Brady for her financial logic and vision for the zoo. However, some concerns were raised about the current zoo staff and whether they could transition into positions with the new Amarillo Zoo and Sanctuary. This would be for the benefit of the employees' continued employment as well as the relationships the staff already have with the animals.

They requested that Brady meet with each staff member and share her vision and return with a transition plan for those employees.

By the end of the presentation, the Amarillo City Council appeared to favor the transition, once staff-transition concerns are addressed.

Next Steps: Council Vote and Community Impact

A decision about the Amarillo Zoo should be made during the next city council meeting on November 18, 2025.

This new proposal for the Amarillo Zoo and Sanctuary could transform our local zoo into a must-visit destination. It will also give residents an incredible place to learn about both exotic species and the wildlife native to our region.

Will the Amarillo Zoo and Sanctuary Add New Animals?

One of the points Brady made during the proposal was that they don’t buy animals. Many of the exotic animals that come to the sanctuary are already available across the country and in need of permanent homes, and Amarillo can be that sanctuary.

Read More: The Amarillo Zoo Welcomes New Sloth to the Mix

The vision for the new Amarillo Zoo and Sanctuary focuses on conservation, community connection, and ensuring that future generations of Amarilloans can experience wildlife up close and learn from it.

You can watch the proposal presentation here, starting at 2:27.