ABQ BioPark Unveils Running Wild: Cheetahs and More

The ABQ BioPark invites guests to experience wildlife in an enhanced new way with Running Wild: Cheetahs and More. This refreshed area of the BioPark transforms the former Catwalk into a journey focused on how animals are built to survive. A favorite for decades, the Catwalk has been rejuvenated for guests and animals alike.

Anchored by cheetahs, the fastest land mammal, Running Wild features a new 14,000 square foot habitat designed to support the dynamic movement and natural behaviors of this incredible feline.

The experience also brings together a range of species that showcase amazing animal adaptations, including agile climbers (a mountain lion and coatimundis), masters of the night (ocelots), as well as animals whose stories highlight extraordinary resilience such as Dash, a blind snow leopard who navigates by sound and memory; and Ben, the Andean bear who climbs confidently with three paws. Throughout the corridor guests encounter animals whose resilience helps them thrive in a changing world.

“Running Wild helps our guests see wildlife through a new lens,” said ABQ BioPark Director Brandon Gibson. “Through habitat improvements and new interpretation, we’re highlighting traits like speed, strength, endurance, and behavioral flexibility, and building deeper connections that support our conservation mission.”

Running Wild also reflects the BioPark’s commitment to optimal animal wellbeing through more dynamic spaces. Interconnected “flex” habitats give animals more options for where to spend their time and let them to experience different environments and stimulation. All habitats have been reworked with appealing platforms, passageways, and climbing structures to take advantage of vertical space.

“This project continues the BioPark’s transformation by taking one of the oldest parts of the Zoo and elevating it,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “This is entirely thanks to the community’s support.”

This $2.4 million project is funded by the voter-approved ⅛-cent gross receipts tax (GRT). The GRT has also funded the award-winning Asia habitats, the renovation of the Heritage Farm, and the transformation of the Australia section of the zoo.

Featured results of the renovation include:

• 14,000 square feet of new cheetah habitat
• Platforms for resting and lounging
• “Flex” habitat capabilities
• Transfer passageways through and above habitats
• Larger guest walkways with shaded viewing areas
• Expanded views into habitats
• Improved backstage homes for animals
• ADA accessibility

New animal residents include:

• Bobcats Ruckus and Maxi
• White-nosed coatis Goose and Acacia
• 4-month old fennec foxes Rocket and Comet

Come experience Running Wild: Cheetahs and More and meet some of the BioPark’s most dynamic animals. The ABQ BioPark Zoo is open daily 9 am to 5 pm, with last entry 30 minutes before closing. Online advance ticket reservations are strongly encouraged.

MEDIA: Link to photo and video b-roll.