Bracket Fever at the Zoo: Uproar Conservation Challenge
March Madness is taking over Indy, and the excitement isn’t just happening on the basketball court. This spring, the Indianapolis Zoo is bringing its own bracket-style competition to town with the brand-new Uproar Conservation Challenge, a fun and meaningful way to celebrate the Final Four while supporting wildlife conservation.
Running March 16 through April 4, the challenge invites the public to vote for their favorite species in a head-to-head, tournament-style bracket featuring 64 at-risk animals, plants, and fungi from around the world.
It’s a creative twist on March Madness that perfectly captures the spirit of competition while shining a spotlight on conservation.
A Tournament for the Planet
Much like the NCAA tournament, the Uproar Conservation Challenge is all about advancing through the bracket. Fans vote online as species go head-to-head until one champion emerges.
Behind the friendly competition is an important mission. Nearly 50,000 species around the world face extinction, and the Indianapolis Zoo designed this initiative to raise awareness and inspire action.
Through the program, the Zoo will award more than $50,000 in conservation funding to support scientists and conservationists working to protect these species.
The winning species earns a $10,000 grand prize that goes directly to the experts working to safeguard its future.
The Championship Celebration at the Zoo
Just like the Final Four, every tournament needs a championship moment.
The challenge wraps up with a Celebration for Conservation on April 4 at the Indianapolis Zoo, featuring music, games, local sports mascots, and the live announcement of the winning species.
Guests can enjoy family-friendly activities like basketball games, cornhole, and other interactive challenges before the champion is revealed.
he event is free for Zoo members and included with Zoo admission, making it an easy add-on to a day exploring one of Indy’s top attractions.
