Miller Park Zoo reopens Katthoefer Animal Building, four big cats have recovered from COVID-19

Posted on December 22, 2021
The Miller Park Zoo is located at 1020 S. Morris Ave. in Bloomington. (WJBC file photo)

By Neil Doyle

BLOOMINGTON – The Katthoefer Animal Building at the Miller Park Zoo will re-open Wednesday, Dec. 22, after several animals tested positive for COVID-19.

The building was shut down last month after a tiger and four snow leopards started showing symptoms. Testing confirmation did not come until Dec. 14 from the national laboratory.

Miller Park Zoo Superintendent Jay Tetzloff said all animal care staff and interns tested negative, so no source was determined. The zoo collaborated with county and state health officials.

“Four of the five cats are doing really well and definitely have recovered,” said Tetzloff. “Rilu, a male snow leopard, is still showing some symptoms. You hear about people who have some lingering effects from COVID, we think that is what he is having.”

Masks are required in all indoor spaces at the zoo.

Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]

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