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Jack Hanna

American zookeeper and wildlife conservationist.

Not to be confused with Jack Hannah.

Jack Bushnell Hanna (born January 2, 1947) is an American retired zookeeper and director emeritus of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Commonly nicknamed "Jungle Jack",[3] he was director of the zoo from 1978 to 1992, and is viewed as largely responsible for elevating its quality and reputation. His media appearances, particularly with David Letterman, James Corden, Good Morning America, and Maury Povich made him one of the most notable animal experts in the United States.

Early life

Hanna was born in Knoxville, Tennessee.[1] He grew up on his family's farm and volunteered for the family veterinarian, Dr. Roberts, when he was 11. He attended The Kiski School, an all-boys boarding school in Saltsburg, Pennsylvania, for high school, graduating in 1965.[2] He majored in business and political science at Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio, where he got in trouble for keeping ducks in his dorm room and a donkey in a shed behind his fraterni

Jack Hanna's long goodbye: How Alzheimer's is stripping away the man the world once knew

BIGFORK, Mont. – As a sunset paints the sky pink on his Montana family farm, Jack Hanna sneaks a chunk of pizza to his golden retriever when a man approaches to greet him.

“Hi Jack,” the family guest says. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

The longtime zookeeper’s famous smile fades into curiosity.

“Where are you from?” Jack asks between bites.

“Columbus, Ohio,” the family guest says.

Jack Hanna built the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium into one of the nation's best. He then captivated national audiences on David Letterman’s late-night talk show, "Good Morning America" and a number of his own Emmy-winning animal series that still run in syndication. He traveled the globe as a leading animal conservationist promoting Columbus. It was his home for decades. It’s even where he once said he wanted his ashes spread whenever he passes away.

But in this moment, none of that history feels familiar.

Jack pauses, then asks a question. “Have I ever been to Columbus, Ohio?”

The Jack Hanna the world once kn

Jack Hanna’s Zoo Legacy

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium to Continue Jungle Jack Hanna’s Legacy of Connecting People and Wildlife As He Approaches Retirement After 42 Years

Powell, OH – How do you begin to celebrate and say thank you for a life-changing 42-year career? Jungle Jack Hanna has used his down-to-earth humor, keen interest in education, and genuine enthusiasm and passion for wildlife to inspire millions to care about—and be amazed by—the wonders of wildlife.  

While his retirement from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium officially begins on January 1, 2021, the contributions he has made to the organization after serving as both director and director emeritus for 42 years will have long-lasting, positive impacts. His vision and leadership helped transform the Zoo into one of the world’s most beloved, innovative, and influential zoos.

A Tribute to Jack Hanna

“Jack Hanna has made an incredible difference for wildlife across the globe and is a true inspiration to our Central Ohio community and most certainly our staff. Throughout the 25 years that

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