Abilene Zoo will officially break ground in 2026, the year of its 60th anniversary, for Phase 1:
“Wild Encounters and Ferocious Eats” of its major expansion project: A Bold Adventure. This project is a transformative vision that will bring new, world-class habitats and experiences to Abilene.
Among the most exciting features of Phase 1 is a brand-new lion habitat unlike anything seen before —featuring a Lockheed C-130E Hercules aircraft as a centerpiece. This C-130E model, previously displayed at the entrance of Dyess Airforce Base, is being relocated to Abilene Zoo as part of a collaborative effort between Abilene Zoo, Dyess Air Force Base, and Abilene Wrecker Service, which has generously donated its hauling services. Dyess will replace the aircraft on display to a newer C-130H model.
With the addition of the C-130, Abilene Zoo will become the only AZA-accredited zoo in the nation — and the world — to feature an aircraft of this size as part of an animal habitat. The wings and tail of the aircraft have already arrived, with the fuselage expected to arrive later this month.
Half of the plane will extend into the lion habitat, offering guests a unique, ADA-accessible experience.
Visitors will be able to enter the aircraft through the cargo ramp, where they’ll discover interactive displays highlighting the fascinating history of C-130 missions that have transported large animals such as elephants and bison across the world. Beneath the aircraft, glass viewing panels will give guests an up-close look into the lion habitat that will also allow special lion keeper chats to inspire guests about lion conservation and the importance of protecting these magnificent species.
The inclusion of the C-130 also celebrates Abilene’s unique history: the land where the zoo sits today was once an airport. The partnership between Abilene Zoo and Dyess Airforce Base pays tribute to that legacy while looking forward to the future.
“This project embodies everything Abilene Zoo stands for — education, conservation, and community,” said Jesse Pottebaum, Abilene Zoo director. “We’re honored to work alongside Dyess Airforce Base to integrate this plane into our zoo and honor the service of Air Force men and women, connecting the city’s aviation heritage with the Zoo’s mission to inspire people to protect wildlife.”
A Bold Adventure will officially break ground in early 2026, with Phase 1 expected to be completed by summer 2027. For more information and updates on A Bold Adventure, visit abilenezoo.org or follow Abilene Zoo on social media.
