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}}'''The Zoo Northwest Florida''' (also called '''The Gulf Breeze Zoo''' or simply '''The Zoo''') hosts over 900 animals on more than 30 acres of preservation land. The Zoo is located at 5701 [[Gulf Breeze Parkway]], 10 miles east of [[Gulf Breeze]] and 19 miles west of [[Fort Walton]]. In addition to the animals themselves, the Zoo features amenities such as the Safari Line Train, Jungle Café, Whistlestop Snack Bar, and a gift shop in the main building.
The Zoo was founded in [[1984]] by four businessmen, including [[Pat Quinn]], who became its director. On [[September 1]], [[2004]], weeks after before being damaged by [[Hurricane Ivan]], control was transferred to the non-profit '''Gulf Coast Zoological Society'''. After many years under the leadership of [[Doug Kemper]], inurance executive [[Danyelle Lantz]] was named executive director in October [[2007]].
The Zoo has faced a number of [[#Problems|problems]] in recent years, including extensive damage from [[Hurricane Ivan]], dying animals and dwindling attendance.
