SALISBURY, Md. – The Salisbury Zoo’s new director brings nearly 40 years of experience in animal care to the position. And he’s not new to the Salisbury Zoo, either.
After a national search, Chuck Eicholz, who had served as the acting zoo director since former Director Leonora Dillon’s retirement at the end of June, was selected for the role. Prior to that, he had served as the Zoo’s curator since January 2021.
As director, Eicholz will make sure the Zoo is running efficiently and ensure compliance with animal care standards. Among his other duties will be increasing fundraising and growing the Zoo’s pool of volunteers.
One major goal for Eicholz in his new position is to lead the Salisbury Zoo in regaining accreditation with the Association of Zoos & Aquariums.
“The park has a great history, and we just want to make sure it continues,” Eicholz said, also praising the Zoo’s great team.
Eicholz started working in the animal care field in 1984, and in 1985, he became a trainer at SeaWorld working with killer whales, dolphins, sea lions, otters and walrus. He’s also worked at the National Aquarium, the Irvine Nature Center, and other small zoos. He used to run his own animal sanctuary, Misfits Animal Sanctuary.
Allen Swiger, director of the Arts, Business and Culture Department, of which the Salisbury Zoo is a part, is glad to have Eicholz in this role.
“I am optimistic about the Salisbury Zoo’s future with Chuck as our Zoo director,” Swiger said. “His unwavering perseverance, zoological knowledge and commitment to serving our community elevated him above all other candidates during our national search. I know he’ll do a great job.”
