Bowling for Rhinos is back! The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden’s chapter of the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) is inviting Oklahomans to help strike out extinction and score a win for rhino conservation at their annual fundraiser, Bowling for Rhinos sponsored by Western Door & Plywood Inc., Bowlero Edmond and Curbside Apparel. Join us for this in-person bowling event on Friday, July 28 at Bowlero, 3501 S. Blvd., Edmond from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Since 1995, the OKC Zoo’s AAZK chapter has hosted this beloved bowl-a-thon, inspiring Oklahomans to take action for protecting rhinos and their habitats by enjoying a favorite pastime, bowling! Bowling for Rhinos is perfect for wildlife fans of all ages. Families, teams and individuals are welcome to participate.

Bowling for Rhinos is a largescale fundraising event hosted annually by more than 85 AAZK chapters throughout the United States and Canada. Coming together for a common goal, rhino conservation, these chapters champion fundraising events in an effort to create a unique opportunity for individuals to help protect and secure habitats for rhinos and other wildlife in Asia and Africa. Why save rhinos? This iconic species has inhabited our planet for over 50 million years, but the future of rhinos is uncertain unless conservation efforts are made to protect them. All five rhino species – Black, Indian, Javan, Sumatran and White – are endangered making fundraising and awareness efforts such as Bowling for Rhinos critical.

Since 1990, Bowling for Rhinos has raised more than $8 million with all proceeds directly benefiting rhino and habitat conservation. The OKC Zoo’s AAZK chapter continues to earn the recognition of “Top Ten Bowling for Rhinos Chapters” and has successfully raised more than $373,000 through its fundraising efforts making it one of the largest contributors to this program.

The OKC Zoo is home to three female Indian rhinos; Shanti, 36; Niki, 16, and Niki’s calf Yabi, 2, who reside at Sanctuary Asia. Native to India and Nepal, Indian rhinos, also known as greater one-horned rhinos, can weigh more than 3,000 pounds. These impressive animals are known for their single horn and tough skin that resembles body armor. 

The fee per individual bowler is $30 (plus fee) which includes three games of bowling, shoe rental, and pizza. There is also a spectator ticket available for $15/person (plus fee) that includes pizza. Participants will also enjoy opportunities to win wild door prizes and a prize for the top team. For more information or to purchase event tickets, go to www.ozsgiving.org/bowling-for-rhinos. Can’t make it in person? Wildlife fans are encouraged to make a donation to Bowling for Rhinos through the Oklahoma Zoological Society

Spare a night to support Bowling for Rhinos and help protect rhino populations around the world! The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily with the last entry at 4 p.m. Purchase advance Zoo admission tickets at okczoo.org/tickets and avoid the entry lines. Located at the crossroads of I-44 and I-35, the OKC Zoo is a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the American Alliance of Museums, Oklahoma City’s Adventure District and an Adventure Road partner. Regular admission is $16 for adults and $13 for children ages 3-11 and seniors ages 65 and over. Children two and under are admitted free. Stay connected with the Zoo on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Linktree and TikTok, and by visiting our blog stories. Support your love and passion for wildlife and wild places with a ZOOfriends Membership Passport to the OKC Zoo. These 12-month memberships provide general admission year-round and exclusive offers while supporting the Zoo’s ongoing animal care and conservation efforts. Memberships can be purchased at okczoo.org/membership.