Utica Zoo’s 2026 Prezoodential election has officially come to an end, and they are excited to announce that their fourth ever Prezoodent is SPOT, the Burmese Python! This slimy showstopper won the hearts of Utica Zoo fans and visitors, as all votes for this election came from the public and were tallied at the end of Presidents’ Day.
These elections have been held each winter and have always provided the additional support the zoo needs during that time of year. With less visitors due to cold temperatures, donations to prezoodential campaigns make a valuable difference and are used in the daily care of the animals. The Utica Zoo is very grateful for everyone’s participation in the election this year. Out of 6 worthy candidates from different districts across the zoo, Spot slithered to the finish line despite all odds. The zoo loved all 6 candidates; however, they view Spot’s win as an intriguing opportunity to promote more “non-charismatic” animals.
“Non-charismatic” animals refer to those that society deems “ugly” or even “gross”. Animals that typically fall into this category include snakes, lizards, bats, rats, and most insects. Due to the way they are perceived, they are often overlooked when it comes to many things but including conservation education. Interestingly enough, these “noncharismatic” creatures play some of the most vital roles in our ecosystems! The Utica Zoo looks forward to highlighting Spot throughout the upcoming year and using her “non-charismatic” self to drive the zoo’s mission forward.
Her first family friendly event as Prezoodent is this Saturday, February 21st from 4pm to 7pm. Utica Zoo will be hosting their STOMP, CHOMP, and DANCE Kids’ Party inside their Visitor Center, filled with neon lights, glow in the dark props, inflatables, DJ tunes by Amos Donnell Productions, pizza, ambassador animal appearances, and more! Additional information about this upcoming event can be found at uticazoo.org/events/
The Utica Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is the Best of Mohawk Valley Community Choice Award Winner for 2025. It is a regional destination that inspires and promotes the appreciation of wildlife through education, conservation, and recreation. Situated in the heart of Central New York, the zoo features a diverse collection of animals from around the world and offers various educational programs and events for visitors of all ages. It is home to approximately 200 exotic and domestic animals, welcoming nearly 100,000 visitors annually and is open daily from 10 am to 4:30 pm
363 days a year, with only the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For more information on this, and all things Utica Zoo, visit UticaZoo.org or follow them on Facebook, Instagram
