BILLINGS, MONTANA -- Every once in a while a region pulls together to create something wonderful, something worthwhile. ZooMontana is the result of this effort. Although still in the early stages of development, ZooMontana's vision is to become one of the world's outstanding zoological institutions specializing in northern latitude temperate species. ZooMontana's exhibits and facilities offer a unique venue for group tours travelers and as an off-site meetings destination.

ZooMontana is demonstrating the commitment to quality exhibits by opening five new species exhibits throughout 1999 and 2000. ZooMontana will expand their collection with the addition of flightless Bald Eagles, Red Pandas, Bighorn Sheep, Fishers and Snow Monkeys. ZooMontana presents their collection with natural cageless animal habitats. The zoo's goals is to present large spacious settings that meet the animals' psychological and social needs. The unique environment allows visitors to admire animals in natural settings.

For example, the Snow Monkey exhibit represents the only primate group in the ZooMontana collection. These animals are well adapted to the harsh cold winters of Japanese mountains and will be seen daily at ZooMontana. Their natural habitat will feature grass, trees, rock outcropping and space for the monkeys. This species will serve to introduce the visitor to the world of primates. Interpretive signage depicting the variety of primates from less complex to more advanced will be designed for this location to educate visitors on primates. The target opening date of the Snow Monkey exhibit is Spring 2000.

Zoo Montana is a regional zoological/botanical garden, which is the only one of its kind in the Northern Rockies. ZooMontana is located on a 70- acre site on Shiloh Road, at the west end of Billings, Montana. A direct exit to ZooMontana off Interstate 90, called Zoo Drive, will be completed by the Summer 2000. ZooMontana is committed to creating quality, state-of- the-art habitats. They are environmentally focused with educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities.

For more information on ZooMontana or other attractions in and around the Billings area, please contact the Billings Convention and Visitors Council at (406) 245-4111 or 800 711-2630. Visit our web site at: http://billingscvb.visitmt.com.