Toledo Zoo Closes for 13 Days Due to Bitter Cold

Zookeepers continue caring for animals during the temporary closure.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 6:15pm

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The Toledo Zoo has closed its doors to the public for the last 11 days due to the bitter cold temperatures, but zookeepers continue working around the clock to care for the animals. The zoo is shut down for a total of 13 days this month because of the frigid weather, allowing maintenance and grounds crews to clear the zoo grounds and make it safe for guests.

Why it matters

The Toledo Zoo is a popular attraction that draws visitors year-round, but extreme cold weather can force temporary closures to ensure the safety of both guests and animals. While some animals prefer warmer climates, the zoo is home to several species that thrive in winter conditions, highlighting the importance of specialized facilities and dedicated zookeepers.

The details

Essential staff report to work regardless of conditions, including during level 3 snow emergencies, to ensure animals are fed and monitored. While some animals like African elephants stay indoors during cold weather, others such as Amur tigers, snow leopards, dingoes and brown bears are enjoying the snow days. These cold-weather animals are naturally equipped with physical adaptations like thicker fur coats and layers of blubber to withstand the frigid temperatures.

  • The Toledo Zoo has been closed to the public for the last 11 days due to the bitter cold.
  • The zoo is shut down for a total of 13 days this month because of the frigid weather.

The players

Koral Stoddard

Small mammal area manager at the Toledo Zoo.

Jen Brassil

Director of public relations and communications events at the Toledo Zoo.

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What they’re saying

“We are here 365 days a year, no matter what.”

— Koral Stoddard, Small mammal area manager

“We just don't get a lot of visitors anyway during really, really cold temps and the snow emergencies we've been having.”

— Jen Brassil, Director of public relations and communications events

What’s next

The Toledo Zoo plans to reopen on Monday, when visitors can see the winter-adapted animals.

The takeaway

The Toledo Zoo's temporary closure due to extreme cold weather highlights the importance of specialized facilities and dedicated zookeepers who work year-round to ensure the well-being of the animals, even when the zoo is closed to the public.