Written by: Victor Malone

Jack Hanna: The Zookeeper Who Brought Wildlife to the World

Jack Hanna is a renowned American zookeeper and director emeritus of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, known for his charismatic personality, infectious enthusiasm for wildlife, and numerous media appearances that have made him a household name.

Early Life and Career

Born on January 2, 1947, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Hanna grew up on his family's farm, where his love for animals was nurtured from a young age. He volunteered for the family veterinarian, Dr. Roberts, when he was just 11 years old. Hanna attended The Kiski School, an all-boys boarding school in Saltsburg, Pennsylvania, for high school, graduating in 1965.

He majored in business and political science at Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio, where he got into trouble for keeping ducks in his dorm room and a donkey in a shed behind his fraternity house, The M.A.C.E. Club. In his senior year, Hanna married Suzi, a cheerleader at Muskingum, and graduated in 1968.

The Rise to Fame

Hanna's passion for wildlife led him to open a pet shop and petting zoo on his family's farm. However, a tragic incident in 1972, where a three-year-old boy was mauled by a lion, forced Hanna to shut down the petting zoo and move his family to Florida.

From 1973 to 1975, Hanna worked for a wildlife adventure company and directed the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens. In 1978, he became the director of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, a position he held until 1992. During his tenure, Hanna transformed the zoo, elevating its quality and reputation, and making it a beloved institution in Ohio.

Media Appearances and Television Shows

Hanna's charisma and love for wildlife made him a natural on television. He has appeared on numerous shows, including The Late Show with David Letterman, The Late Late Show with James Corden, Good Morning America, and Maury Povich.

Hanna's own television shows, such as Jack Hanna's Wild Adventures, Jack Hanna's Into the Wild, and Wild Countdown, have been broadcast globally, entertaining and educating audiences about the wonders of wildlife.

Controversies and Criticisms

In 2021, a documentary titled The Conservation Game alleged that Hanna participated in the mistreatment and private trade of exotic and endangered animals. Hanna has denied the allegations, stating that he has always prioritized animal welfare and conservation.

Awards and Honors

Hanna has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to wildlife conservation and education, including the Henry Doorly Zoo Conservation Award, the Columbus Zoo Conservation Award, and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Conservation Award.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Hanna has been married to Suzi since 1968, and they have three daughters, Kathaleen, Suzanne, and Julie. Hanna has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including supporting conservation organizations and charities that benefit children's health and education.

Legacy

As a pioneering zookeeper and conservationist, Jack Hanna has left an indelible mark on the world of wildlife education and conservation. His tireless efforts to promote animal welfare, conservation, and education have inspired generations of animal lovers and conservationists.

Love him or criticize him, Jack Hanna remains an icon in the world of wildlife, a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and a lifelong love for the natural world.