Walter Palmer's dental practice in Bloomington reopened Monday, weeks after closing amid animal rights protests and a storm of questions about Palmer's now-famous lion hunt in Zimbabwe.

About nine cars were parked in the River Bluff Dental parking lot, and a black-clothed security guard stood watch outside the front door. Reporters were restricted to a sidewalk and not allowed to approach the brick offices just off Old Shakopee Road.

A statement was handed out that said "Dr. Palmer is not on site." The statement went on to say that staff "wish to get to business as usual to serve our clients and patients, and maintain the jobs of dedicated professionals."

The statement requested that members of the media refrain from contacting employees.

JENNIFER BJORHUS