Interactive play area part of support for pygmy hippo habitat, environmental water conservation and adaptability.

Consumers Credit Union is excited to support John Ball Zoo through a 10-year sponsorship of its new, state-of-the-art pygmy hippo habitat. You can become a hippo hero, too, by financially supporting the zoo’s Time to Soar capital campaign.

The centerpiece of the zoo’s campaign, the pygmy hippo habitat will be ready for the public in 2023 with an expansive outdoor area featuring a large pool for the hippos with underwater viewing, educational areas and an indoor observation area which will allow guests to enjoy the hippos year-round.

An important and revolutionary aspect of the habitat will be the new, sustainable water filtration system, which will collect the area’s stormwater to fill and refresh the hippo pools. This technology will be the first of its kind utilized to maintain a hippo habitat in the country.

With less than 3,000 of these animals left in the wild, pygmy hippos are one of the most exotic and endangered animals in John Ball Zoo’s expansion plans. The new exhibit will bring the first pygmy hippos to John Ball Zoo and will be the only pygmy hippo habitat in the state of Michigan.

“It’s the generosity of our community partners, like Consumers Credit Union, that helps drive our conservation efforts,” explained Peter D’Arienzo, chief executive officer at John Ball Zoo. “We are beyond grateful for their partnership and we look forward the positive impact this will have on the West Michigan community for years to come.”

“We are thrilled to partner with community treasures like the John Ball Zoo,” said Consumers President & CEO Scott Sylvester. “The fact that there will be a new family friendly habitat and adaptable zoo areas along with the environmental impact focus is why we believe our partnership will make a difference. We are looking forward to bringing member perks and community events to zoo-goers throughout the year.”

Become a Hippo Hero today by donating to support the John Ball Zoo and the upcoming innovative pygmy hippo exhibit.

During the month of August, take advantage of the John Ball Zoo member perk – purchase a family four-pack for the price of three, daytime admission only.

Federally insured by NCUA