History of Indianapolis Zoo in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 14, 2025

The Indianapolis Zoo is a 93-acre zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden located in White River State Park near downtown Indianapolis. Founded in 1964 and moved to its current location in 1988, the zoo is a non-profit organization and one of the largest privately funded zoos in the United States. It is known for its diverse collection of animals and plants, providing educational and recreational opportunities for visitors.

October 1960: Wynkin, Blynkin and Nod Displayed

In October 1960, the sculptures Wynkin, Blynkin and Nod by artist Arthur Kraft were originally displayed at Glendale Town Center.

January 11, 1993: Wallaroo Escape

On January 11, 1993, a wallaroo named Mookie escaped his enclosure and roamed downtown Indianapolis for about 20 minutes before being recaptured unharmed.

November 8, 1998: Zookeeper Injured by Elephant

On November 8, 1998, a zookeeper was seriously injured by the elephant Cita, suffering broken ribs and unconsciousness after being struck by the elephant's trunk.

1999: Midwestern Panorama Dedicated

In 1999, Andrew Reid's cylindrical mural, Midwestern Panorama, was dedicated inside the Bud Schaefer Rotunda of White River Gardens.

July 18, 2003: Trainer Injured by Elephant

On July 18, 2003, a trainer was injured by the elephant Ivory, who was reacting to a call from her calf Ajani. The trainer required surgery for a leg injury.

July 17, 2005: Stray Dogs Kill Animals

On July 17, 2005, stray dogs breached the Australian Plains exhibit, resulting in the deaths of two black swans, three magpie geese, and three emus. Animal control responded and killed four of the dogs.

August 9, 2006: Penguin Shipment Truck Overturns

On August 9, 2006, a truck carrying penguins and other animals from the Indianapolis Zoo overturned near Marshall, Texas, resulting in the deaths of four penguins and several exotic fish.

November 10, 2007: Fire at Critter Corner

On November 10, 2007, a fire in the zoo's Critter Corner building caused the death of multiple animals, including turtles, birds, an armadillo, and a snake. The fire was likely caused by combustible bedding near a heat lamp.

January 19, 2009: Shark Deaths in Oceans Exhibit

On January 19, 2009, fifteen bonnethead sharks died in the Oceans exhibit due to a failure to reopen a valve regulating ozone levels after routine maintenance.

2014: Skyline Gondola Malfunctions

Since its debut in 2014, the zoo's Skyline gondola lift experienced various technical malfunctions that stranded passengers in midair on a number of occasions. No injuries were reported.

September 6, 2015: Cheetah Escape

On September 6, 2015, a cheetah named Pounce escaped his enclosure, leading to a one-hour lockdown of the zoo. Pounce was subdued with a tranquilizer dart, and no injuries were reported.

July 2016: Wynkin, Blynkin and Nod Loaned to Zoo

In July 2016, the sculptures Wynkin, Blynkin and Nod were loaned to the Indianapolis Zoo by Kite Realty Group after being displayed at Glendale Town Center.

December 14, 2017: Azy Sculpture Unveiled

On December 14, 2017, a limestone sculpture of Azy, an orangutan, created by artist David Petlowany, was unveiled near the zoo's entrance to celebrate Azy's 40th birthday.