ASHEBORO, N.C. – The Asia section of the North Carolina Zoo is set to open on March 1, 2027, marking the first significant expansion of the facility in over three decades. The last major development was the North America Continent section, which opened in 1994.
Governor Josh Stein expressed excitement about the upcoming addition, stating in a press release, “The experience for North Carolina families is going to be even more magical with the new Asia habitat opening next spring. This world-class expansion will bring more visitors to our state, support local businesses, and foster state pride for generations to come.”
According to Pamela Cashwell, Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR), the Zoo attracts more than a million visitors annually due to its unique blend of nature, art, history, and wildlife conservation. Cashwell emphasized that the Asia expansion will enhance the Zoo’s educational programs and create new opportunities for residents to engage with this state resource.
The new 12.5-acre Asia region will showcase innovative habitat designs, introducing nearly 50 new species, including critically endangered Malayan tigers, Visayan warty pigs, white-cheeked gibbons, and Chinese alligators. Bird and reptile fans can look forward to glimpses of Komodo dragons, demoiselle cranes, blue-crowned laughingthrush, king cobras, and crocodile monitors, among others.
Zoo Director and CEO Dr. Mark Penning noted the significance of the Asia section in the Zoo’s 52-year history, stating, “We can’t wait for guests to meet these enchanting residents, learn from them, and discover ways to protect their wild habitats and cousins.” He added that the expansion will include the Zoo’s most extensive botanical garden, featuring over 6,000 new plants, and new pathways for visitors to explore.
Although much of the groundwork for the new section has been completed, the official opening was postponed pending the passage of the state budget, which was necessary to secure funding for hiring and training staff.
