History:

The manifestation of their deep devotion to all creatures large and small,the Cougar
Mountain Zoo was founded by Peter and Marcie Rittler in 1972.The fledging Zoo’s
initial collection was comprised of 53 specimens of exotic and domestic birds,
mammals and reptiles. During the first fifteen years of operation admission was
offered free to general public and area school children. In 1987 the Zoological
Society of Washington, became the fundraising arm of the Zoo. The Cougar
Mountain  Zoo has grown into one of the major institutions in the State in the
field of  wildlife conservation and education. With the passing of years the
story thus  unfolds to the present day.

Mission:

The Cougar Mountain Zoo is dedicated to increasing the understanding and appreciation of the earth’s wildlife and the role of humanity in nature through education, research, captive breeding, conservation, exhibition and recreation.

The Mission of the Cougar Mountain Zoo is to heighten the appreciation of the immense beauty, mysteries and importance of the world’s wildlife and develop in people of all ages a deep concern for the natural world on a local, regional, national and worldwide level.

To serve as a rallying point and a common denominator where people with differing environmental views can find a common cause and neutral ground.

To be an important recreational asset for all ages and socio-economic levels.

To represent a greenbelt in the sea of development for the Puget Sound Region.

To serve the surrounding schools and communities as a Living Classroom through a broad array of specialized educational programs.

To give every Zoo visitor individual attention and a special experience.