Zoo near Lake Norman and its exotic animals listed for $16M
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Photo: Courtesy of National Land Realty
Zootastic Park, a privately owned zoo near Lake Norman, is listed for $16,000,000.
Why it matters: The zoo has a controversial history regarding its facility maintenance. The U.S. Department of Agriculture cited the zoo for cleanliness in some of its closures and habitats.
Catch up quick: The 186-acre property in Troutman is known for its exotic animal interactions.
- In 2021, it was cited for its failure to provide animals with adequate veterinary care, according to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).
- A 2022 inspection, reported by WBTV, lists several infractions, from the failure to document the purchase of animals to suspected black mold in an enclosure area.
- A recent inspection showed three animals had "frostbite injuries", according to Queen City News.
Zoom out: North Carolina is one of the few states without laws regulating the ownership of exotic animals.
What to expect: The listing price includes over 600 exotic animals such as lions, tigers, monkeys, bears, giraffe goats, donkeys and birds.
- It also includes the business' gift shop, holiday light display, carousel, train plus multiple residences that were used for housing staff onsite.
- An interested buyer must obtain a license to continue the zoo's operation.
What they're saying: "The owner is selling because he is ready to retire and pass the torch to the next animal lover. Scottie (Brown) has a passion for educating people about animals while providing a kid-friendly, fun, and exciting atmosphere," a zoo spokesperson said in a statement to Axios.
Land broker Billy Parker and Peter Mazeine with National Land Realty are managing the listing. Photos are courtesy of National Land Realty.
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