A series of habitat upgrades and concessions improvements are underway at the Houston Zoo.

The multi-year Africa habitat improvements include a renovation of the white rhinoceros habitat, new features for the Masai giraffe herd and enhancements to Shani Market, a retail space.

“These upgrades reflect the Zoo’s ongoing commitment to providing the highest standard of care for animals while creating meaningful connections for guests,” Zoo officials said in a press release.

Here are the upgrades at a glance:

White Rhinoceros Habitat

• Construction kicked off earlier this month and is expected to be completed in early 2027.
• The comprehensive renovation will support expanded species care, long-term habitat health and will welcome zebras and an additional rhino.
• In addition to more shade, a covered viewing shelter will also be added, allowing guests to get closer to the animals.
• New animal care features include heaters, fans and feeders, as well as a new water feature that aims to support animal health while still encouraging natural behaviors of the African species.

McGovern Giraffe Habitat 

• Home to five giraffes: Zawadi, Asali, Gigi, Kamili, and Tino.
• Renovations are scheduled for completion in spring 2026 and aim to improve comfort for the giraffes and enhance the guest experiences.
• Improvements include a shade canopy to reduce heat exposure, more drinkers, fans and feeders for the animal’s wellbeing, as well as additional habitat adjustments.
• Funded as a gift from Jo Collier Hart Estate.

Shani Market

• Being transformed into a grab-and-go concept store and expected to open summer 2026.
• Will offer self-checkout stations for retail, food and drinks.
• Guests will have the opportunity to purchase products from the Zoo’s conservation partners.

The Houston Zoo attracts roughly 2 million visitors each year. According to visitor location data analyzed by Houston First, in 2025 most of the out-of-town visitors to the Houston Zoo came from elsewhere in Texas, followed by Louisiana, California, Florida, and New York. The top out-of-town Texas markets that drew visitors to the zoo were Beaumont-Port Arthur, Austin, Harlingen-Weslaco-Brownsville-McAllen, and San Antonio.

Written by Norma Salcedo 

Photos: Houston Zoo