The Gladys Porter Zoo is proud to announce the official completion and grand opening of Phase II of El Mundo Huasteco y Totonaco, marking another major milestone checked off the Zoo’s ambitious Master Plan.

While Phase I debuted in 2017 with capybaras, capuchin monkeys, and custom regional architecture, Phase II dramatically expands the realm, delivering state-of-the-art, immersive habitats for a diverse group of tropical American wildlife.

Many of these incredible animals, including howler monkeys, cotton-top tamarins, white-faced saki monkeys and prehensile-tailed porcupines were previously tucked away in the rear section of the Zoo’s Small World area. For years, most guests spent their time enjoying the popular nursery and Nigerian dwarf goat yard, rarely venturing far enough into the back to discover these species. Now, these animals take center stage in lush environments designed to mimic their native rainforest habitats.

The new phase offers unprecedented visibility for visitors of all ages, with the new ocelot exhibit serving as one of its key features. One of the exhibit’s premier highlights is an overhead Ocelot Skywalk, an elevated mesh walkway allowing guests to look up and spot the notoriously elusive native cat prowling directly above the public path.

“Watching these animals step into their expanded homes has been incredible,” said Dr. Pat Burchfield, Zoo Director. “Species that were once hidden away in the back of Small World are now thriving in dynamic, open habitats. Our guests will get an entirely new perspective on these animals, especially with the ocelots crossing right over their heads.”

El Mundo Huasteco y Totonaco seamlessly blends wildlife conservation with a deep celebration of regional history. As guests walk through the exhibit, they are transported south of the border into the ancient Mesoamerican landscape. Surrounded by native plant species, visitors will marvel at intricate, custom-built structures inspired by the grand stone pyramids and urban centers constructed by the Totonac and Huastec civilizations in what is now modern-day Veracruz.

To cap off the immersive experience, guests can snap a memorable photo on a monumental, custom-carved giant stone throne measuring 15 ½ feet tall by 22 feet wide, designed to make every visitor feel like Mesoamerican royalty.

The completion of Phase II is not just a win for El Mundo Huasteco y Totonaco, it represents tremendous momentum for the Zoo’s overarching Master Plan. By successfully transitioning these animals into their new homes, the Zoo clears the way for its next major project: a completely reimagined and modernized Small World exhibit. In addition to highlighting some of the Zoo’s cutest residents, the newly designed Small World will feature inclusive play areas for children of all ages and abilities.

Phase II of El Mundo Huasteco y Totonaco was made possible through the visionary generosity of key foundations, corporate sponsors, and dedicated individuals whose support and commitment helped bring this extraordinary project to life.

With the assistance of the City of Brownsville, Gladys Porter Zoo was able to secure a significant gift of $1.59 million from the Musk Foundation. We extend our deepest gratitude for this extraordinary contribution, which played an instrumental role in bringing this project to life.

Special thanks to the Robert J. Kleberg, Jr. and Helen C. Kleberg Foundation, AZA SAFE Ocelot Program, Roberto Ruiz, Catherine Young, South Texas Palms, Palm Dominion, and Just a Closet Self Storage.

Special recognition and gratitude go to lead artists Don Breeden, Mark Clark, Carol DeMoss, Trudy Garza, Mario Godinez and Gustavo Gonzalez for their extraordinary craftsmanship in bringing the ancient Mesoamerican pyramids, stonework and sculptures to life.