Monterey Zoological Society

The Monterey Zoological Society is a nonprofit organization located in Salinas, California. It operates the Monterey Zoo, formerly known as Wild Things Animal Rentals, Inc., which is situated on the 51-acre Vision Quest Ranch.

History

The society's origins are deeply rooted in the passion of its founder, Charlie Sammut. His early life included a variety of pets, from boas and pythons to horses, which developed his love for animals. A notable turning point was his acquisition of a pet cougar, which marked the beginning of his involvement with exotic animals. Charlie's life significantly changed with the arrival of a lion cub named Josef, who became famous for starring in commercials and movies, including The Lion King. This success led Charlie to purchase the Vision Quest Ranch in 1994, establishing the Monterey Zoo as a place to educate people about animal conservation and welfare.

Mission

The Monterey Zoological Society aims to provide an entertaining, educational, and conservation-focused experience for the public. It fosters awareness and respect for wildlife by offering educational programs that reach thousands of children and adults annually. The organization is dedicated to maintaining exemplary animal care while promoting wildlife conservation.

Operations

The Monterey Zoo is home to over 100 exotic animals, including African elephants, white rhinos, lions, and bald eagles. It operates on a daily schedule, excluding major holidays like Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. The zoo features large animal enclosures and offers interactive experiences with some animals. Additionally, the Vision Quest Ranch B&B provides a unique overnight stay option for visitors, allowing them to immerse themselves in a safari-like environment surrounded by the zoo's animals.

Conservation Efforts

Monterey Zoological Society is accredited by the Zoological Assoc. of America (ZAA) and has received notable awards for its conservation efforts, including the ZAA Exhibit Award for its "Insert Rhino" exhibit and the ZAA In-Situ Conservation Award for contributing to global rhino conservation.

Financials and Support

The organization receives financial support through grants, fundraising events, and community contributions. In its fiscal year ending 2022, it reported total revenues of over $1.45 million. The society benefits from partnerships with various grantmakers and participates in community-driven initiatives to support its mission.

Governance

The Monterey Zoological Society is led by a dedicated board of directors, which includes representatives from diverse fields. The board composition ensures diversity of thought and leadership, aligning with the organization's goal of fostering inclusivity and community engagement.