Central Florida Zoo announces partnership with Wekiva Island

Nestled on the serene banks of the Wekiva River, Wekiva Island has long cherished Central Florida’s enchanting river otters. Such is the adoration that their very own wine and craft beer lounge is named ‘The Tooting Otter’ in tribute to these water-loving creatures.

This fondness recently took a significant leap forward. In collaboration with the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Wekiva Island will proudly sponsor the Zoo’s otter enclosure.

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In its role as sponsor, Wekiva Island has made a significant contribution that will sustain the Zoo’s adorable otter, Molly, throughout the year. As a token of appreciation, the Wekiva Island emblem will grace the Zoo premises and its digital portal.

Expressing gratitude, Richard E. Glover, Jr., the Zoo’s CEO remarked, “Wekiva Island has been a pillar of strength and generosity for Seminole County. Their consistent contributions, both in kind and spirit, have been invaluable to our Zoo’s mission. We’re truly honored to have such a committed partner.”

To kick off their official patronage of the otter sanctuary, Wekiva Island is organizing a Seafood Boil fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 21. This delightful event aims to gather funds to ensure Molly’s well-being for the year. Their unwavering support for the Zoo isn’t new; they’ve been integral to events like ‘Brews Around the Zoo’ and even hold esteemed positions on the Zoo board.

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Positioned beautifully in Longwood alongside the Wekiva River, Wekiva Island has been a symbol of community spirit in Seminole County for over a decade and a half. Their ethos revolves around sustainability, creativity, and knowledge dissemination. And in 2023, they’ve chosen the Zoo as their charitable focus.

Bill Weinaug, the visionary behind Wekiva Island, shared, “The ethereal beauty of the Wekiva River was our inspiration. And what better way to honor our roots and support the community than by championing the conservation endeavors of the Zoo, especially concerning a creature symbolic of the Wekiva River.”

Much like the waters of Wekiva River, North American river otters, including the Zoo’s Molly, are native to freshwater and coastal marine territories in North America. They epitomize the biodiversity of Central Florida—a treasure both the Zoo and Wekiva Island pledge to safeguard.

About Wekiva Island

Located on the beautiful Wekiva River, Wekiva Island offers visitors the chance to experience the real Florida. The natural attraction features more than 2,000 square feet of entertainment along the riverfront, including activities from canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding to volleyball and cornhole. Wekiva Island hosts regular monthly events. The Tooting Otter bar offers a selection of craft beer and wine, and Without a Paddle Café serves up a full menu, including for special events. 

Guests can also purchase gifts or souvenirs at the General Store. In addition, Wekiva Island features a unique art gallery that showcases natural works from around the world, as well as offers classes, events and more. Corporate meeting space, event venues and private cabana rentals are available at Wekiva Island. Sustainability and a passion for the environment is at the heart of the organization’s mission. Wekiva Island is located at 1014 Miami Springs Drive in Longwood, Florida. For more information, visit wekivaisland.com or call 407-862-1500.  

About the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens 

The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is home to over 300 animals in Sanford, Florida. As a not-for-profit organization, it is a leader in conservation, creating connections that inspire people to take action for wildlife. More information is available at www.centralfloridazoo.org.

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