Bramble Park Zoo Advances Accreditation Goal with Major Habitat Upgrades, Announces Tiger Relocation
- Steve Jurrens
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Bramble Park Zoo (BPZ) announced today that Ursula, its resident Amur tiger, will be relocated to another facility to allow the Zoo to move forward with critical habitat improvements. The move is a necessary step as BPZ undertakes major renovations designed to meet full accreditation standards.
Due to the close connection between the tiger and black bear exhibits, the relocation of Ursula—who will not be returning due to her age—is required before modernization can begin on the linked carnivore areas. The Zoo has committed to these upgrades as a central part of its Pathway Toward Membership with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), with a five-year plan to achieve full accreditation.
The need for these improvements was a contributing factor in the Zoo’s denial of AZA reaccreditation last year, which cited several habitats, including the wolf and carnivore areas, that required modernization.
Since then, BPZ has begun implementing its plan for the future. Construction is already underway on the grey wolf habitat, which is expected to be completed by next summer, and a separate project is slated to modernize the black bear habitat.
Zoo Superintendent Stacy Plocher stated that the decision was made with animal well-being as the primary focus.
“It’s always hard to say goodbye to animals we’ve loved and cared for,” said Plocher. “We know this move is best for Ursula and the rest of our carnivores. Our goal every day is to provide the best possible well-being for our animals, and sometimes that means making tough decisions to improve their lives.”
BPZ is focused on creating safe, comfortable, and engaging spaces for its animals, noting that these upgrades will strengthen the Zoo for the future. While the exact relocation date has not been finalized, Ursula will remain on exhibit until her move, allowing visitors to see her before she departs.
Bramble Park Zoo remains open year-round from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for visitors.
