Wheaton's Cosley Zoo reopening to all visitors July 8

Cosley Zoo is preparing to reopen with reduced hours and a new ticketing process after a nearly four-month closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Wheaton zoo will first welcome members on July 6 and 7 and then the general public on July 8.

"Our team has worked diligently to put safety measures in place so that guests can enjoy a safe and positive experience as they visit all of their favorite animals," Director Sue Wahlgren said in a statement.

In order to safely limit attendance, the zoo will require all guests to purchase timed tickets in advance of their visits. The passes will provide access to the zoo for a one-hour window.

Tickets will only be available online, with reservations starting July 1 for members and July 3 for the general public at cosleyzoo.org.

The zoo's hours will now run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

Safety measures will include a one-way path through the zoo, signs encouraging social distancing between groups, increased cleaning procedures and the closure of some indoor spaces and high-touch areas.

Masks will be required for all visitors over the age of 2 when a minimum of 6 feet of social distance cannot be maintained. Exceptions will be made for those with medical conditions or disabilities that prevent them from safely wearing a face covering.

The Coyote Cafe will be open from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., weather permitting. Initially, the Wild Side Gift Shop will remain closed and daily education activities are temporarily suspended.

Reopening guidelines are posted at cosleyzoo.org.