Philly Zoo's Big Cat Crossing named 'Best Zoo Exhibit': USA Today

The Philadelphia Zoo's Big Cat Crossing exhibit was named "Best Zoo Exhibit" of the year by a USA Today and 10Best readers' poll. 

After the initial 20 nominees were chosen by experts, the top 10 winners were determined by popular vote.

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Big Cat Crossing is part of the zoo's Zoo360 plan, a campus-wide system of trails that allows animals more freedom to roam around and above zoo grounds.

Big Cat Crossing is a 330-foot mesh overhead passageway that extends above the main visitor path. The trail encourages the zoo's large felines — lions, tigers, pumas, jaguars and more — to explore. 

Best Zoo Exhibit Top 10:

1. Big Cat Crossing - Philadelphia Zoo
2. Arctic Ring of Life - Detroit Zoo
3. Giants of the Savanna - Dallas Zoo
4. Museum of Living Art - Fort Worth Zoo
5. Russia’s Grizzly Coast - Minnesota Zoo
6. Sea Lion Sound - St. Louis Zoo
7. Congo Gorilla Forest - Bronx Zoo
8. Desert Loop Trail - Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
9. African Elephant Crossing - Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
10. Animal Care Center - Busch Gardens Tampa

On March 4, the Philadelphia Art Commission unanimously approved the concept for the Philadelphia Zoo’s African Plains project, which will expand the existing exhibits.