About Twin Falls Zoological Center
More than a zoo. A place of rescue, responsibility, and discovery.
Where Stewardship Comes First
Founded in 2019 as Southern Idaho Reptile Rescue, Twin Falls Zoological Center has grown into a community-supported zoological facility caring for over 100 animals from around the world.
Every animal here has a story. Many arrived because they had nowhere else to go—surrendered pets, rescued wildlife, or animals transferred from other facilities. All are cared for with intention, consistency, and respect.
Encountering animals up close should inspire curiosity—and understanding. Caring for wildlife is not entertainment alone. It is a commitment. We exist to provide lifetime homes for animals that cannot be released to the wild and to educate our community about responsible stewardship.
What We Stand For
Rescue & Responsibility
Every animal in our care arrived because they had nowhere else to go. We provide lifetime homes, not temporary solutions.
Education First
We believe understanding creates respect. Every encounter is an opportunity to learn about wildlife and stewardship.
Community Connection
As a nonprofit, we exist because of community support. Every visit, donation, and membership sustains our mission.
Thoughtful Care
Animal welfare is not negotiable. We provide species-appropriate environments, enrichment, and veterinary care.
Inspiring Responsible Stewardship
"Our mission is to inspire responsible stewardship of the natural world through education, hands-on experiences, and thoughtful animal care."
Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors serves the organization by providing governance oversight and fiduciary care, helping ensure Twin Falls Zoological Center remains mission-focused, responsible, and sustainable.
Joshua Dowding
Joshua Dowding serves as Executive Director of Twin Falls Zoological Center and has been deeply involved in building the zoo from the ground up through hands-on work, long hours, and a shared commitment to animals and community. His role focuses on daily operations, long-term planning, and ensuring the zoo remains a welcoming, educational space rooted in care and responsibility.
Rachael Dowding
Rachael Dowding serves on the Board as Secretary and functions as the zoo's General Manager, supporting both governance and day-to-day operations. She has been instrumental in building and sustaining the zoo through hands-on leadership, organization, and a deep personal commitment to animal care, staff support, and program continuity.
Jonny Carlson
Jonny Carlson serves as Director of Animal Health and brings decades of professional experience in animal care to the zoo. His work centers on maintaining high standards of welfare, thoughtful habitat planning, and practical care practices that support both animal wellbeing and meaningful public education.
Advisory Board
Members of our Advisory Board share their experience, insight, and community perspective to support specific programs and initiatives as the organization grows.
Facility Veterinarian
Dr. Bryan Johnson — Facility Veterinarian
Dr. Bryan Johnson of Fairview Veterinary Center has been with Twin Falls Zoological Center since its early days and has been an invaluable resource for our team. He plays a critical role in ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of our animals and is always willing to answer the call — whether the patient is a tortoise, a parrot, or an alligator.
Staff
Our staff team supports the daily care of our animals and the programs that serve our community, helping bring the mission of Twin Falls Zoological Center to life each day.
Visit Us
Twin Falls Zoological Center
Magic Valley Mall
1485 Pole Line Rd E, Suite #151
Twin Falls, ID 83301
Get DirectionsTeam roles reflect the organization's current structure and may evolve as programs and community needs grow.