Classic Birmingham Zoo attraction reopening soon

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) - The endangered species carousel at The Birmingham Zoo will soon welcome riders back.

The carousel first opened in 2002, but was later closed in 2024. After the zoo partnered with Protective to refurbish the ride, a whole new generation can make lasting memories.

“Some kids have ridden it. Now they might be bringing their kids,” said Chris Pfefferkorn, CEO at the Birmingham Zoo. “Here at the zoo, we create memories for generations, like with our train and just the experience of the zoo. The carousel is an important part.

David Loper at Protective said the company is proud to play a small role in the success of the zoo.

“Protective has been headquartered here in Birmingham for 100 years and the zoo’s been here for 70. We’ve been partnering on all sorts of projects over the years,” Loper explained. “Supporting a wonderful carousel like this that brings families together is just a great opportunity for us. We love this community. It’s our home, and we’re happy to be a part of it.”

The carousel itself features 36 animals, all listed as endangered.

Pfefferkorn said part of the zoo’s mission is to conserve, protect and educate people about endangered species.

“So now you can have a little bit of fun and hopefully learn a little bit something about these really incredible animals,” he said.

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