Profile Information:
- Address: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 (Map)
- Phone Number: (619) 231-1515
- Email Address: info@sandiegozoo.org
- Hours of Operation: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Date Founded: 1916
- Accreditation: Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)
- Number of Animals: 3,500+
- Number of Species: 650+
- Park Size: 100 acres
- Website Link: https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/
Brief History:
The San Diego Zoo is a world-renowned zoo located in Balboa Park, San Diego, California. It was founded on October 2, 1916, by Dr. Harry M. Wegeforth, who was inspired to create a zoo after hearing a lion roar while driving home from a medical convention. The zoo’s first animal was a bear cub named “Sunshine,” who was purchased for $10.
Over the years, the San Diego Zoo has become a leader in animal conservation, research, and education. It was the first zoo to create open-air, cageless exhibits, and pioneered the concept of zoological parks. In 1923, the zoo opened its first monkey exhibit, which included a moat and island system that became a model for other zoos around the world. In the 1930s, the zoo began to focus on breeding rare and endangered species, and today it is home to over 650 species and 3,500 animals.
The San Diego Zoo has also been a pioneer in animal welfare and research. It has made significant contributions to the field of animal behavior and training, and its researchers have conducted groundbreaking studies on animal communication, reproduction, and genetics. The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which sets high standards for animal care, conservation, and education.
Today, the San Diego Zoo is a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. It continues to be a leader in animal conservation and education and is dedicated to inspiring people to care about wildlife and take action to protect it.
The San Diego Zoo is truly a remarkable place for people of all ages. With its wide range of animal exhibits, educational programs, and conservation efforts, the zoo is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting San Diego. Don’t forget to download the mobile app and plan your visit today!
Quick Facts:
- The San Diego Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world.
- The zoo has been home to over 40 species that are extinct or extinct in the wild.
- The zoo has a botanical collection with over 700,000 plants.
- The zoo is known for its innovative animal exhibits and habitats.
- The zoo has a special area called the Children’s Zoo that is designed for young visitors.
- The zoo has been featured in many films and TV shows, including the movie Anchorman.
- The zoo has a program called the San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy, which supports conservation efforts around the world.
- The zoo has a Skyfari aerial tram that takes visitors on a scenic tour of the park.
- The zoo is home to a diverse range of animals, including elephants, tigers, pandas, and gorillas.
- The zoo has a mobile app that helps visitors plan their visit and learn more about the animals.
Fun Facts:
- The San Diego Zoo was the first zoo in the United States to exhibit a koala.
- The zoo has a team of animal behaviorists who work to understand and improve the lives of the animals.
- The zoo has a program called the “Frozen Zoo,” which stores genetic material from endangered animals for future use.
- The zoo has a program called the “Hoot and Howl” overnight adventure, where visitors can camp out and listen to the sounds of the animals.
- The zoo has a program called the “Inside Look” tour, where visitors can go behind the scenes and learn about animal care and conservation.
- The zoo has a program called the “Keeper for a Day” program, where visitors can shadow a zookeeper and learn about their work.
- The zoo has a program called the “Roar and Snore Safari” where visitors can spend the night in a safari tent and listen to the sounds of the animals.
- The zoo has a program called the “Animals in Action” show, where visitors can see the animals perform behaviors and tricks.
- The zoo has a program called the “Discovery Cart,” where visitors can touch and learn about small animals.
- The zoo has a program called the “Elephant Odyssey,” where visitors can learn about the history and evolution of elephants.
Fun Facts for Kids:
- The San Diego Zoo is home to the largest population of giant pandas outside of China.
- The zoo has a special area called the “Kangaroo Walkabout” where visitors can get up close and personal with kangaroos and wallabies.
- The zoo has a program called the “Animal Ambassadors” where trained animals visit classrooms and community events to teach people about wildlife.
- The zoo has a special area called the “Penguin Beach” where visitors can watch penguins swim and play.
- The zoo has a program called the “Discovery Days” where kids can participate in fun and educational activities.
- The zoo has a program called the “Zoo Camp” where kids can learn about animals and conservation through hands-on activities and games.
- The zoo has a program called the “Animal Play Days” where kids can watch animals play and interact with their keepers.
- The zoo has a program called the “Zoo Corps” where teens can volunteer and learn about animal care and conservation.
- The zoo has a special area called the “Owls and Friends” where kids can meet and learn about owls and other birds of prey.
- The zoo has a program called the “Wild Animal Park Adventure” where kids can explore the park and learn about animals and habitats.
- The zoo has a program called the “Animal Training Adventure” where kids can learn about animal behavior and training from the experts.
Additional Resources:
Video: San Diego Zoo Full Tour – San Diego, California
Video: Zoo Tours: NEW! Wildlife Explorers Basecamp | San Diego Zoo
Video: Zoo Tours: Tiger River at the San Diego Zoo
Video: Zoo Tours: The Monkey Trails & Forest Tales | San Diego Zoo
Live Cam: Live Baboon Cam – San Diego Zoo
Live Cam: Live Polar Bear Cam – San Diego Zoo