The Zoo Tycoon 2 Website lists "Now Available" as the release date for the zoological simulation sequel, though apparently the fervor surrounding the big America's Favorite Zoo Contest extravaganza has kept this changed release information, which happened Monday, from hitting the newswires (thanks Frans). Here's the deal on the game:

Zoo Tycoon 2 cranks up the excitement, challenge and fun of building the ultimate zoo with 30 animals in incredible detail with more fun animations, a dazzling array of building tools and objects, including themed-buildings, moats, photo mode options, easier terrain altering options and rivers. Gameplay has been enhanced from the original title, with a new zoom mode and 3D graphics that allow players to keep an even closer eye on the action and craft more creative zoos.