Dallas residents have a final weekend to see the African penguins at the Dallas Zoo before the colony is relocated to Cameron Park Zoo in Waco. The move, scheduled for this weekend, is part of the zoo’s African Shorelines renovation, a component of the multi‑year Safari Trail expansion.

Temporary relocation and upcoming expansion

While the penguins are housed at the Waco facility, the Dallas Zoo will remodel their current habitat. The renovation aims to increase the colony from 13 birds to more than 50, providing greater breeding potential and enhanced educational opportunities.

Visitors this weekend will enjoy special keeper talks and other features as a farewell to the penguins. The zoo expects to break ground on the new African Shorelines exhibit in October, with an opening projected for 2028.

Broader Safari Trail project

The African Shorelines upgrade is part of the larger Safari Trail plan, a multi‑million‑dollar effort that will roll out new experiences every 12 to 18 months through 2030. Future phases include a Wild Grasslands area combining cheetah and rhino habitats, a multi‑species aviary, and an Okapi Forest featuring endangered okapi, overhead monkeys, and a treehouse classroom.

Dallas Zoo CEO Lisa New said the project reflects the modern zoo’s mission to blend conservation, education, and visitor experience.

Community members are encouraged to visit the zoo this weekend for the farewell events and to stay tuned for updates on the Safari Trail progress.

Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.