Louisville Zoo Closes Jan. 25–26 as Snow Falls, While Animal Care Continues Behind the Scenes

Winter weather shutters public access while daily operations continue

The Louisville Zoo closed to the public on Sunday, January 25, 2026, and Monday, January 26, 2026, as winter conditions affected travel and day-to-day city operations. While gates were closed, animal care did not pause: staff remained on-site to feed animals and maintain habitats on the same schedule as any other day.

The closure aligns with broader storm-response steps across Louisville, where agencies outlined service adjustments and safety messaging tied to hazardous conditions. Zoo leadership and animal care teams have previously described winter weather planning as a routine part of operations, built around ensuring animals receive continuous care even when road conditions deteriorate.

How zoos manage animal welfare during snow and extreme cold

Zoo operations during winter storms typically prioritize staffing, reliable utilities and flexible habitat access. At Louisville’s facility, preparations described in prior winter weather coverage have included increasing the number of staff members who stay overnight when snow is forecast, reducing the risk that travel conditions prevent critical animal care.

Infrastructure planning is also central. Backup generators and heating systems are part of readiness to keep indoor habitats stable, particularly for animals accustomed to warm climates. Staff also monitor doors, shifting systems and other moving components that can freeze, with the goal of maintaining safe options for animals to move between indoor and outdoor areas when conditions allow.

“We’re always going to be here because the animals can’t leave,” Zoo Director Dan Maloney said in earlier remarks about winter operations.

Which animals tend to be most active in snowy conditions

Snowfall can lead to visible changes in behavior for cold-adapted species. In previous Louisville cold-weather periods, staff have highlighted that animals such as polar bears, seals, sea lions and snow leopards may remain active outdoors, using snow-covered habitats in ways that resemble conditions found in parts of their natural ranges.

At the same time, winter weather increases energy demands for many species. Keepers may adjust diets and feeding routines during cold snaps as animals burn more calories to maintain body heat. These changes are made within established husbandry protocols and are tailored to species needs and individual health.

What visitors should know when the Zoo reopens

Outside weather-related closures, the Louisville Zoo generally operates daily with seasonal hours. During the current winter schedule, posted hours run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with guests exiting by 5 p.m. Visitors planning a return after the January 25–26 closure are advised to check updated operating information before arrival, as winter conditions can affect access, pathways and select seasonal attractions.

• Closure dates: Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, and Monday, Jan. 26, 2026
• Animal care: staff remained on-site to feed and care for animals
• Winter operations: staffing, backup power and temperature management are key priorities