Platypus Cam
You're watching a live stream of the Safari Park's platypuses—the only ones in the US. These special animals serve as ambassadors for the species outside of their native Australia and communicate the importance of fresh water for both humans and wildlife, and we’re honored to be entrusted with their care.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park – What You’ll Want to Do & See – 2024
How to do San Diego Safari Park from Africa Tram to zebras. Here’s a gorilla-sized tips guide to animal exhibits, shows & tours. A day planner’s included with animal encounters and entertainment events pre-loaded. You’ll know what you want to do, and when to do it to have a great day.
At San Diego Zoo Safari Park you can have an African Safari experience without going to Africa. Walk and see wild animals in large natural field enclosures and exhibits like Lion Camp. Enjoy activities like Africa Tram, Cheetah Run, overnight camping, ziplining, ballooning, playgrounds, and shows.
* Save with a secret promo code on each San Diego Zoo or Safari Park 1-Day Pass. Go any day. Go directly to the gate. Click HERE to get your code, instructions & discounted tickets by email. By clicking the link above you agree to receive an automated email message. Valid only at aRes Travel , San Diego’s local authorized ticket seller. Read my full privacy policy .
If you make purchases through the links in this post, I may be compensated. Read my Advertising Disclosure for more info. Thanks! ~ Nancy
That’s the quick summarized version of what there is to do at Safari Park. But there’s a lot more to discover below. Also, check out my Safari Tours reviews to discover how much time each takes to make organizing your day easier.
What Can You Do At San Diego Zoo Safari Park?
At safari park you’ll walk…a lot .
You’ll be getting your steps in during your day at San Diego Safari Park. It was designed first as a breeding facility for rare and endangered species. Because of this, the animal exhibits have more room here than at a ‘normal’ zoo. And thus you’ll be strolling a bit further between them.
Safari Park is 1800 acres large. But the area that is open to general admission ticket holders is only about 80 acres ( Link to my page with the maps ). Still, that’s a lot of ground to cover.
If you have limited mobility there are wheelchairs and electric scooters for rent. There’s also an ADA (American With Disabilities Act) shuttle bus to get you around the park. Those who have difficulty with standing in line may request an “Easy Access” pass at the entrance to Safari Park. The pass offers you and 3 more members of your group preferred boarding and seating if needed. Download the park’s “ Guests With Disabilities ” guide for more information.
You Can Take a Safari Tour
There are 9 different types of Safari add-on experiences, and 27 different variations.They range from animal photo and feeding opportunities to sleepovers and activities like zip lining that will get your adrenaline going. You’ll need to make reservations well in advance. They fill up quickly and you can plan your day around them.
TIP: Make sure that you arrive at least 10 minutes early for your Safari. If you’re late or miss it you will not be given a refund or a raincheck in most cases. Cancellations for full refunds must be done 5 days in advance.
Below you’ll find quick summaries of all 9 Safari tours. For detailed information including how much time you’ll need, costs and other requirements see my page on Safari Park Tours .
Caravan Safari Is the Most Popular Paid Tour at San Diego Safari Park
This is our favorite Safari, we’ve taken it several times. You ride a flatbed truck out into the wild animal herds in their large field enclosures. These include even the dangerously unpredictable cape buffalo who are sometimes called “ the black death ”. Fortunately, you will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide familiar with their behavior to keep you out of trouble. The guides also point out other (safer) animal behaviors and answer your questions.
They’ll also help you feed the giraffes and sometimes rhinos if the critters are feeling curious and hungry. There are always so many great photo opportunities on this trip it’s sometimes hard to choose where to point your camera.
Roar & Snore Safari Is More Than Just Camping Overnight
Experience the sights and sounds of an African safari without the killer plane ticket cost. You get to fall asleep to the sounds of elephants snorting and giraffes walking by. And the sounds of lions roaring may wake you the next morning. You get a tasty, filling dinner and a hearty breakfast. There’s also a night campfire where you can make gooey s’mores. There are guided night walks through some behind-the-scenes areas and a morning keeper presentation.
Behind-the-Scenes Safari Shows You San Diego Safari Park’s Secret Places
Explore behind the scenes into areas not accessible to the general public. This guided safari’s a great way to get an insider’s view of some of the animals at safari park and the organization’s conservation efforts. You’ll also get a chance to meet and maybe feed some of the Safari Parks animal ambassadors. There are 7 different types of Behind-the-Scenes safari; platypuses, elephants, tigers, rhinos, kangaroos, cheetahs or butterflies.
Cart Safari is a Relaxed Tour Around the Large Field Enclosures
On the Cart Safari tour you get a chance to observe herds of giraffes, rhinos, antelope and other animals in a natural setting. Your driver is also an experienced guide. They’ll point out significant behaviors and would love to answer your questions about what you’re seeing.
It’s a more relaxed trip than the Caravan Safari and offers lots of photographic opportunities.
Flightline Safari -Fly Over San Diego Safari Park
Get your pulse pumping, and feel the wind in your face as you fly 2/3rds of a mile over herds of antelope, rhinos and giraffe.
You’ll get a training session from professional staff and take a short practice flight to get your landing technique down. Then you’ll take a truck up to a high ridge above the park and fly down.
TIP : Pay the little extra for a helmet camera to record your trip down. Using your cell-phone to make your own live video is not possible. You’ll need your hands free to hold your harness when you land.
Cheetah Safari – Meet the Spotted Speedsters
Watch the Cheetah Run at speeds close to 70 miles per hour from a prime reserved trackside spot. Then meet the speedy sprinter afterward for an exclusive close-up experience.
There will be plenty of opportunities to take amazing cheetah close-ups. But don’t waste your time trying for the perfect selfie with a cheetah. The Safari Park employees will make sure that you get a great shot with the big cat.
Another African animal ambassador will also be brought out for you to meet before the run. This Safari is relatively inexpensive so it fills up fast. Make your reservations early.
Balloon Safari – Get Above It All
Soar 400 feet above the scenic San Pasqual Valley and the herds of wild animals below. This is a tethered ride, so you don’t have to worry about floating away and landing within Lion Camp. This safari is very dependent upon favorable weather conditions.
Try to schedule your ride between 9 AM and noon. Winds tend to pick up speed in the valley during the afternoon. And the balloon safari does not fly during the Cheetah Run. It can spook the cats.
Ultimate Safari – Wish Fulfillment for Animal Lovers
Build yourself a custom safari experience with the assistance of the Safari Park’s professionals. Visit off-exhibit areas. Have close encounters with the animal ambassadors that interest you most. Make it as adventurous as you wish, zipline, balloon ride and rope courses, cape buffalo, feeding an elephant. Dream big. Explore Safari Park with your personal tour guide for up to 8 hours.
Board These Safari Park Rides
Africa tram is a must-do safari park activity.
Africa Tram is a must-do activity especially if you aren’t going on one of the paid safaris. When you hop aboard it’s like you’ve been transported to the plains of Africa. You’ll see herds of giraffe, rhino, antelope and birds living together just as you would there. The tour guide drivers are very knowledgeable and quite often funny. They’ll point out unique animal survival tactics and adaptations and new babies in the large field enclosures.
TIP: The animals are most active when it’s coolest. On hot days try to catch the earliest tram rides or the latest ones. The tram starts running at 10 AM. It stops 45 minutes before the park’s closing. I’ve written an in-depth review with extra tips on my Safari Tours page .
Conservation Carousel
Have your kids (or you) ever dreamed of riding a tiger, a bear, or maybe even a zebra? You can do it on this merry-go-round. It features 60 endangered animals and was opened in 2005 . There’s a $6 fee to ride the carousel. (open 10 AM to closing).
Watch Shows and Keeper Talks at San Diego Safari Park
Shiley’s cheetah run is a must-see at safari park.
Don’t even THINK about visiting San Diego Safari Park without attending Cheetah Run . See one of these leggy cats explode out of its carrier and sprint after its prey (a stuffed animal on a motorized tether) at speeds close to 70 miles an hour. Six or 7 seconds later it comes to an abrupt halt at the end of the 100 meter run. It’s long tail whips around for balance and dirt goes flying as its feet dig into the turf. Spectacular. Hang around. Depending upon how the cheetah feels they sometimes run the course twice.
TIP : Get to the Shiley’s Cheetah Run track at least 30 minutes ahead of time. Good viewing areas are on the bridge close to Savannah Cool Zone and on the walkways closest to it. The entire presentation lasts about 20 minutes and usually starts at 3:30 PM. Confirm the time when you arrive at Safari Park.
Tiger Keeper Talk
Get close-up views of tigers and inside information on how they’re cared for at Safari Park. The keepers use this time to provide enrichment to the tigers as well as give them a quick physical exam. The Sumatran tigers are the smallest tiger. But they’re still intimidating as you see them stretch up on their hind legs to reach a meaty treat.
TIP : Arrive at least 20 minutes early for the 11:45 AM Tiger Keeper Talk. The 15-minute tiger training session is very popular.
Frequent Flyers Bird Show
(Temporarily canceled due to avian flu)
This is an entertaining show, perfect for an afternoon sit-down break. You’ll experience exotic birds like owls, parrots, and large vultures flying just inches above your head. They’re close enough to reach up and touch (but don’t).
They’re not caged or tethered in any way. It’s an impressive example of the power of positive behavior conditioning and the patience and kindness of the keepers. The 20-minute show is presented twice, once at noon and again at 2:00 PM.
Animal Ambassador Stage
Get within a couple of feet of various Animal Ambassadors here. You never know what the keepers will bring out. I’ve gotten up close to tiny Kestrel hawks, echidna (an Australian spiny anteater which has spines like a porcupine, a beak like a bird, a pouch like a kangaroo, and lays eggs like a reptile) to a golden eagle and African serval cats.
Training Talk
Get an up-close look at free-flight bird training. Most people don’t bother with this presentation. That’s what makes it so good. You can often sit in the front row and see firsthand how expert animal trainers establish trust with their charges. Aside from being able to view exotic birds up close, it’s easier to ask questions in this forum. If you pay attention you can pick up tricks that can be applied to your cats, dogs, and maybe even kids to encourage them to do what you want them to.
Talk with Robert the Zebra
Chat with a digital, interactive zebra. He’s snarky, and clever and will keep your children occupied for 20 minutes with stories about what it’s like to be a zebra. Kids are fascinated by this cartoon zebra that carries on a conversation with them from a large-screen TV. You can talk to Robert every hour on the hour from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
Visit These Can’t-Miss Safari Park Animal Exhibits
The platypus are a must-see at safari park in san diego.
These are the only platypus on exhibit outside of Australia…anywhere. So go see them. Give yourself some time and exercise a bit of patience in this exhibit.
First, it’s dark and you’ll need to let your eyes adjust to the bright San Diego sun.
Second, platypi move fast and rarely stay put in one spot. Getting a good photo can be a challenge. Just have fun looking at these energetic creatures.
Gorillas have always been one of the most popular animals at Safari Park and the Zoo. Go anytime. They are fed five or six times per day with leaves, stems, fruit, seeds, and roots. Be sure to check out the Gorilla Activity Center. Compare your arms to those of an adult male gorilla on a drawing, listen to their vocalizations, and watch a video on how the keepers care for them.
Elephant Valley
(Elephant viewing may be limited due to the construction of the new, larger ‘Elephant Valley’ exhibit.)
There are few things as wonderful as seeing elephants playing in the water. There are two swimming pools for the San Diego Safari Park herd in this 5-and-a-half acre habitat.
There are two main yards. One is usually open while the other is being cleaned of copious amounts of elephant dung and stocked with treats. In most cases, the Elephant Viewing Patio will be the best place to watch them.
NOTE: Open observation points may differ during the construction of the new Elephant Valley exhibit.
The lion exhibit at San Diego Zoo is justifiably famous for its design. It’s both visitor friendly and great for the lions themselves. There are many places to view lions from the large windows by the air conditioned rocks, to rock piles and an ‘abandoned’ jeep that sometimes hosts a very large sleeping feline. The lions have wonderful views of the large field enclosures filled with tasty meals on the hoof. Think of it as must-see cat TV.
Tiger Trail Sambutan Longhouse
If you love tigers, you’ll love Tiger Trail. It’s green and lush and the perfect place to watch tigers watching you. For more information on what’s there and why you should go there, check out my “ 11 Coolest Reasons to See San Diego Safari Park Tiger Trail ” page.
Kangaroo Walk in Walkabout Australia
At Kangaroo walk you can go inside the exhibit and see wallabies and kangaroos go bounding by on all sides. And if you’re lucky, maybe one will stop within petting distance. They’re super soft and feel like they’re covered is fuzzy wool.
Petting Kraal
Kids love brushing and petting the three types of small African goats here. One word of caution. Goats will try to eat ANYTHING. So make sure that your cameras, purses and wallets are tucked away safely. Any children that are intimidated by the rambunctious kraal critters can relax next door at the Village Playground. Because of their proximity, it’s easy to keep an eye on both areas.
Kids Love These Playgrounds At San Diego Safari Park
Samburu jungle gym .
This will be your favorite playground at Safari Park. Your kids can climb on a rhino or pretend to be driving a jeep across the African plains. And you can watch their antics while relaxing in the shade at Samburu Terrace. Sip a cold one and have lunch while your offspring work off their excess energy.
Savanna Cool Zone
Your kids can have a wet and wild time here while you sit in the shade and keep an eye on them from tables by Lion Camp Slush and Snacks.. It’s perfect for hot summer days. There are play statues shaped like lions and tortoises with squirt fountains coming from their heads on a soft spongy play surface.
Camp Play Area
Kids climb, slide and run on tree trunks in a simulated logging camp hidden within the lush wooded landscape of Tiger Trail. There are also statues of a tiger mom and her cubs where you can take memorable photos of the kiddos.
Village Playground
KIds have fun experiences in this interactive play area designed as an African Village. It’s located next to the Petting Kraal in Nairobi Village. This is great planning because some children are frightened by the curious goats poking their noses everywhere looking for treats. It’s much easier for parents with several kids to keep an eye on everyone here.
Jameson Research Island
Your kids will have buckets of wet fun here…literally. Buckets periodically dump cooling water in one of the play areas on the island. Even though the African Loop that goes past the flamingos and colobus monkeys goes over water, the path can get very warm in the summer and early fall.
Explore These Gardens at San Diego Safari Park
Bonsai pavilion is the best garden at san diego safari park.
The Bonsai Pavilion at San Diego Safari Park is fascinating even to those who aren’t into gardening. These aren’t just plants, they’re art.
Bonsai is a Japanese word that roughly translates into “tree in a tray”. Ordinary young trees are shaped by pruning and cutting to mimic the natural effects of centuries of wind and weather on a small scale.
Baja Gardens, Old World Succulent Gardens, and California Nativescapes Garden
Take a walk on the wild and spiky side in the World Gardens. These three gardens will amaze you with the wide variety of plant shapes, colors, and sizes found in the world’s arid areas. It’s like a journey through a Dr. Seuss book with elephant trees , euphorbias , and over 200 boojums .
TIP: Bring a water bottle. These gardens are located at the highest elevations in the park that are open to the public. They can be physically challenging, especially during the hot afternoons in August and September. The best time of the year to see these exhibits is early May when many of the plants are blooming.
Epiphyllum Trail
The blooms in this garden are spectacular from April through early July. At other times this garden is rather boring.
Epiphyllum are cacti indigenous to central America and Mexico. They live in the crooks of trees and get water from the moisture in the air. Almost all of the plants are hybrids that combine the characteristics of several different naturally occurring species.
Herb Garden
Give your nose a treat. Take the thyme to smell the roses, it won’t cost you a mint because entry to this garden comes with your San Diego Safari Park admission, Herbs have been used for centuries to flavor food, treat illnesses and make us smell good. There are over 20 different species of herbs here.
Hidden Jungle
Wander through a tropical rainforest complete with towering trees, flowering vines, and exotic birds. Many of the birds are named for their colors like the blue-capped cordon bleu, pink pigeon, and purple grenadier.
In springtime, half of this exhibit is home to Butterfly Jungle and you’ll see many more colorful wings than usual. The other half of Hidden Jungle is reserved for birds that eat butterflies and other insects. It’s a natural way to keep the butterflies inside.
TIP: Visit this exhibit in the morning or late afternoon. This is an enclosed greenhouse. It can be hot and humid.
Mombasa Lagoon
Even though this area is listed by Safari Park as a garden, the major attraction here is the birds, not the plants. At any given time there are over 150 avians here from about 25 different species. There are cormorants fishing, storks, ducks, and my favorite, the shoebill. It looks like something out of Jurassic Park.
If you see some of the birds taking off and flying away, don’t worry. They’re most likely local freeloaders like great blue herons, egrets or migratory birds like mallards.
Additional Tips for Visiting San Diego Zoo Safari Park
How long does San Diego Zoo Safari Park Take?
People in online forums say that it’s possible to see Safari Park in two hours. They’re wrong.
San Diego Zoo Global recommends allocating at least 4 hours . The only way to “do” Safari Park in 2 hours is to just walk to Africa Tram to ride it and then walk back to the parking lot. Keep in mind that the park is at least 45 minutes of travel time from downtown San Diego…each way. Then add another 30 minutes for parking and walking to and from the entrance.
If you’ve only got 2 hours and you’re near downtown San Diego, just go to the Zoo in Balboa Park. Take the money that you’d have spent for getting to Safari Park and buy a nice dinner with some wine at Albert’s Restaurant .
What’s the best day to go to San Diego Safari Park?
The best days to visit Safari Park are typically Tuesdays and Wednesdays on weeks without a major holiday. The park is less crowded on these weekdays . If you’re going on a holiday weekend, get there at 9:00 AM when it opens .
Click HERE to check your date(s) to see if Safari Park will be crowded.
Safari Park can get very warm in late August and September. These are the days when temperatures can be over 100°F (38°C). It doesn’t happen very often, but make sure that you’ve packed hats and refillable water bottles if you decide to go then.
Don’t let a bit of rain keep you from going to Safari Park. It can be a delightful experience. Here’s a page that I wrote giving you tips and hints for enjoying Safari Park in the rain .
What’s the Best Time to Arrive at San Diego Safari Park?
It’s best to arrive at San Diego Zoo Safari Park just before opening at 9:00 am. Many of the animals at Safari Park will be more active when it is cool. Also, keepers generally put out enrichment and treats first thing in the morning. That encourages the animals’ natural foraging behaviors and keeps them from getting bored.
Where’s the Best Place to Eat in Safari Park?
The best restaurant in San Diego Safari Park is The Watering Hole at Kijamii Overlook. But it may not be the best for you. So I’ve written an entire page about all the restaurants and eateries at and around Safari Park . Chow down!
7 Things You Should Wear to San Diego Safari Park
Closing thoughts.
I hope that you’ve found this post on what to do at San Diego Safari Park useful in planning your day. Because this attraction is not your ordinary zoo, some people can get overwhelmed by all the options and just decide not to go. I didn’t want this to happen to you. Let me know if you have questions on any of the Safari tours, rides, activities, play areas or if you know of a great tip for visiting San Diego Safari Park.
Nancy Ulrich
I'm nuts...about animals, polymer clay, mixed media art & husband Bob. Happily planted in San Diego among good friends, family that I would have chosen if given the choice and optimism for a bountiful future for us all.
Recent Posts
Best San Diego Zoo Ticket Deal for Anyone
How does aRes manage to provide discounted tickets? Their collaboration with the San Diego Zoo dates back to 1996, aiding in the establishment of the zoo's inaugural online ticketing system. This...
What's the Best San Diego Zoo Tour? Prices Chart & Reviews
I've been on a few amazing San Diego Zoo tours and couldn't resist diving deeper to find our next one! This friendly guide compares prices, lengths, and who they're best for, spiced up with feedback...
- Help Center
- Plan Your Visit
- Places To Stay
- Special Experiences
- Youth Programs
- Student & Youth Groups
- Events & Catering
- Live Cameras
- Our Mission
PREFERRED HOTELS
Picture Your Special Day at the Park!
Save the Chubby Unicorns
Gorilla Shadow
Flutter by a beautiful ‘Butterfly Jungle Safari' at San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Roam "a world of color" and learn about these enchanting insects at the escondido animal park., by alysia gray painter • published february 23, 2024 • updated on february 23, 2024 at 5:53 pm, what to know.
- Butterfly Jungle Safari tickets go on sale the week of Feb. 26, 2024
- March 18 through May 14 (daily)
- $15 per person (ages 1 and up); admission to San Diego Zoo Safari Park is separately priced and is required
THE FABULOUS FLYERS... that whimsically wing their way through an ethereal aviary at San Diego Zoo Safari Park each spring boast names that sound as if they hail straight from a magical poem: There's the Orange Julia (the butterfly's bright hue backs up this marvelous moniker), the Zebra Longwing (stripes do add visual razzmatazz), and the Paper Kite (a complex pattern lends this little critter so much loveliness). Really, though, there are no prosaic labels in the realm of butterflydom, for each butterfly wears their hallowed handle as lightly as they land upon a leaf. If you're ready for a season that is inherently woven through with poetic moments — that would be soft and sweet springtime, of course — then you're likely ready to join the Butterfly Jungle Safari , which alights in Escondido around mid-March, fluttering for a nearly two-month engagement in the Hidden Jungle.
EVEN THE FLOWERS... have fanciful names in the aviary — you may come across wallflowers and pincushions, if you keep your peepers peeled — but it isn't all about being under a storybook-like spell. The amazing science behind how butterflies pollinate, and the important roles they play in the natural world, will also be front-and-centered during the popular event. It's an experience that runs for a tantalizing 20 minutes, and snapping pictures is what plenty of visitors do, though some come just to bask in the beauty. Note that your $15 ticket doesn't also include admission to Safari Park; that is separately priced, so be sure to book both if you plan to soar by this seasonal safari, a favorite of flutterby, er, butterfly fans near and far.
Get Southern California news, weather forecasts and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC LA newsletters.
This article tagged under:
Five burrowing owls are holed up in new homes on Ramona Grasslands
The owls were released back into the wild as part of an ongoing conservation effort to save the rare species
- Show more sharing options
- Copy Link URL Copied!
Five small but mighty owls were introduced to their new home on the Ramona Grasslands Preserve Tuesday — part of an ongoing effort to reverse the rare species’ shrinking population.
At just a few ounces and less than a foot tall, with long legs and big yellow eyes, these pint-sized raptors are one of the smallest owl species in the nation. They nest in elaborate underground burrows excavated by ground squirrels and other animals in native grasslands.
Although burrowing owls are native to San Diego, they have all but disappeared in recent years as more and more of their natural habitat is lost to development. Now the county’s western burrowing owl population is at risk of going extinct locally.
That’s why the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance partnered with the San Diego Humane Society’s Project Wildlife, the San Diego Habitat Conservancy and other local agencies to set the next generation of owls up for success.
Three of the owls released Tuesday had spent the last eight months being nursed back to health after zoo scientists rescued them in the wild last year.
Abundant rain had made for taller grass growing at the owls’ nesting site in Otay Mesa last year, making it harder for their parents to forage for food, explained Colleen Wisinski, conservation program manager at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. Two brother owlets and a female in a separate nest had each lost one of their parents.
“The idea was to basically save them from a pretty certain fate of death,” Wisinski said. “They are kept within human care for a certain period of time so they can get past the highest mortality part of their lives and become adults.”
The owlets were transferred to Project Wildlife.
Dr. Alexis Wohl, a wildlife rehabilitation veterinarian there, said the male owlets came in looking very thin, dehydrated and full of parasites. But they all made a speedy recovery. “They were able to really pack on the weight really easily, so we had to put them on little diets,” Wohl said, chuckling.
After a few months, the owls were transferred to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s bird conservation center, where they were eventually paired with the other two owls that were released Tuesday — older birds that acted as mentors, Wisinski explained.
Those two owls, a female from the Living Coast Discovery Center and male from the Safari Park, had both been hatched in captivity as the local conservation breeding program was halted due to an outbreak of a highly contagious strain of avian flu .
As rain fell steadily Tuesday morning, researchers and biologists carefully placed each owl into its new burrow on the Ramona grasslands. The three younger ones were split into breeding pairs, one of which was paired with the older female. The older male owl was placed on his own.
Researchers had built artificial burrows within temporary aviaries, which the birds will remain enclosed in for a month. The aviary will protect the owls from predators like skunks and weasels while they acclimate to their new surroundings, and also give them time to mate within the safety of their enclosure.
The aviaries are placed near enough to one another on the preserve that the burrowing owls can hear each other vocalize. Researchers also play recordings of burrowing owl calls, so the social animals can start to feel at home until they colonize.
The owls will be given food and monitored closely over the next month using cameras installed in the burrows. Then, once they hopefully have a clutch of eggs, researchers will remove the aviary and let the owls explore their new home.
The owls are among various raptors that call the over-3,000-acre preserve in Ramona home. It is also host to other raptors, including golden and bald eagles, as well as a herd of cattle, which help keep the grass short enough for the owls to hunt for prey — mostly insects, small lizards and rodents — while also hiding from predators.
For years, the Otay Mesa site was the only burrowing owl breeding site left, but due to rapid development in recent years, researchers began working to reclaim other suitable habitats across the county to expand fledgling colonies. They have since reintroduced burrowing owls to the Ramona grasslands and the Rancho Jamul Ecological Reserve.
Burrowing owls have a homing instinct that gives them a tendency to return to where they were born, explained Christina Schaefer, a private biologist and conservancy board member.
“Once they have a brood, they will stay,” Schaefer said. “And the adults may leave once their chicks are fledged … but the hope is that the brood that fledged, or was born at the site, will return every breeding season.”
For Wohl, releasing the owls back into the wild is the best part of her job.
“That’s the main goal of wildlife rehabilitation,” she said. “Getting them back out into the wild is always the best part.”
Get the Ramona Sentinel in your inbox
Top news from Ramona, in your inbox every Thursday for free.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Ramona Sentinel.
Emily Alvarenga is the community reporter for The San Diego Union-Tribune. She previously covered features and business as a senior staff writer at The Signal in the Santa Clarita Valley and is a San Diego State alum.
Support local journalism
At a time when local news is more important than ever, support from our readers is essential. If you are able to, please support the Ramona Sentinel today.
More from this Author
State of the County: Vargas addresses homelessness, housing and inequities
Feb. 27, 2024
New water tank at San Diego Zoo Safari Park will help helicopters fight wildfires
Jan. 3, 2024
To reunite lost dogs with their owners, the Humane Society turns to texting
Feb. 7, 2023
Florida safari park welcomes first baby ape in nearly 28 years
The Lion Country Safari drive-through safari park in the South Florida city of Loxahatchee welcomed a new and rare endangered ape, park officials announced on Thursday. The new white-handed gibbon was born on Feb. 17.
It is the first ape to be born at the park in nearly 28 years. Park officials said the ape will cling to its mother until it matures and begins to explore on its own. The baby's parents, 23-year-old Tamatha and 36-year-old Larry, are visible to visitors on their habitat islands in the last section of the park's tour, officials said.
White-handed gibbons are a lesser ape species native to the rain forests of Asia.
SEE MORE: Fans mourn death of Flaco, beloved owl who escaped Central Park Zoo
They are generally monogamous and produce one offspring after a gestation period of approximately seven months. The average life expectancy for a white-handed gibbon is 25-30 years in the wild and approximately 44 years under human care, park officials said.
The apes are on the endangered species list, and populations are decreasing in the wild due to habitat loss and illegal wildlife trafficking, officials said .
This story was originally published by Aja Dorsainvil at Scripps News West Palm Beach .
Trending stories at Scrippsnews.com
- Invisible injury: NCAA basketball player reveals mental health battle
- Nearly 30 million Americans are impacted by a rare disease
- Study finds 1 in 10 US children don't have a primary care doctor
Sign up for the Breaking News Newsletter and receive up to date information.
Now signed up to receive the breaking news newsletter..
Read more about Scripps News here
“A unique odyssey into the untouched wilds”
-screen comment, “visually stunning”, -great day washington, “explores the transformative power of nature”, - sunset magazine.
Narrated by Morgan Freeman
Now playing in imax ® and giant screen theaters.
In Search of the Hidden Wonders of Nature
Step off the beaten path and connect to your inner trailblazer in this cross-country journey to some of the most beautiful but little-known landscapes of north america. from the wilds of alaska and the lush coastline of oregon, to the ancient canyons of the southwest and the rolling hills of the appalachian trail, into america’s wild is a non-stop ride via kayak, train, bike, hot air balloon and more that explores the transformational allure of wild places and the human connection we all share with the natural world., in the wildest places, we can still find that connection we all need., – john herrington, pioneering native american astronaut.
Filming America’s Wild
Learn more about the making of the film in this behind-the-scenes interview with the filmmakers., meet the trailblazers, what is it about untamed places that fires our curiosity, cleanses our spirits, sparks new ideas and so often brings us together the trailblazers who guide into america’s wild share a passion for connecting people with experiences in the wild. meet pioneering native american astronaut, john herrington. alaskan bush pilot and youth advocate ariel tweto. and record-breaking, long-distance hiker jennifer pharr davis..
Find A Theater
International, for educators, films for exhibition in imax and giant screen theaters are designed to educate and enlighten as much as they are to entertain. take your students on a field trip to see into america’s wild and inspire them with a renewed appreciation for nature and time spent in the wild, even if it’s in their own backyard. the film is aligned with next generation science standards (ngss) for grades k through 12. book your field trip today by contacting your local imax or giant-screen theater for information about special group programs., a macgillivray freeman film produced in association with brand usa. presented by expedia and united airlines..
Things to Do in Mono Hot Springs, CA - Mono Hot Springs Attractions
Things to do in mono hot springs.
- 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
- Good for Couples
- Budget-friendly
- Good for Kids
- Good for Big Groups
- Honeymoon spot
- Good for Adrenaline Seekers
- Hidden Gems
- Adventurous
- Good for a Rainy Day
- Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.
1. Black Point Fissures
2. Mono Hot Springs
3. Tule and Doris Lakes
What travelers are saying.
- Black Point Fissures
- Mono Hot Springs
- Tule and Doris Lakes
Mono Hot Springs Attractions Information
- Blog Archives
- Copyright | Cookie policy
- Literature
- (V)IPs Zoos
- Rest of the World
- Endangered Species
- Species Classification
- (V)IPs Evolution
- Latest Newsletter
- Newsletter Archive
- Subscription
- Video Gallery
Select a Zoo
Reviews — zoos in europe, history description, history documentary.
During the second half of the nineteenth century the first menageries in Moscow were established as entertainment facilities. The first was founded in 1855 by two Frenchmen (names unknown), while the Kreuzberg family owned a private menagerie that opened its door to the public in 1862 . Together these animal collections formed the heart of the Moscow Zoological Garden founded by the Society for Acclimatization of Plants and Animals, which was established by professors of the Moscow State University. The initial idea for such a zoological garden came in 1857 , but it took the Society, including one of its founding fathers professor Anatoly P. Bogdanov, until 1863 to be able to buy property for the future zoo. The Zoo was opened to visitors on 13 February 1864 at the location where it still exists until this very day. On opening day 287 animals were on display, of which 134 were domestic animals, while the others were exotic specimens such as tigers, lions, jaguar, leopard and rhino.
In those days it was an unique experiment to create “a living museum outdoors,” as professor Bogdanov said, in such severe climatic conditions of central Russia. The primary purpose of the Zoological Garden according to the members of the Society was:
to collect alive specimens of higher vertebrates ( firstly — the animals of Russian fauna) for scientific observations;
to establish a collection of typical animals that could serve educational purposes, i.e. distribution of zoological knowledge among the wide public communities;
to carry out scientific experiments and observations of important animals, especially domestic animals of Russian breeds.
The Zoo was financed by the entrance fees and private donations, including contributions by members of the imperial family. In the first years the annual number of visitors grew up to ten thousands. Nevertheless, the incomes did not cover the expenses and the Moscow City Council refused to give financial support. So, the Zoo went into private hands of the Ryabinins’ family in 1874 . They transformed the Zoo into an amusement park and in three years time ruined the place. In 1878 the Zoo was run by the Society for Acclimatization of Plants and Animals again, including fund raising activities. This time the Society was able to manage the Zoo successfully, and even to buy a number of animals. But in the turmoil of the Revolution of 1905 the Zoo was severely damaged: the buildings were ruined, the library was set on fire, many animals perished. So, for the second time the Society was forced to turn over the Zoo to private owners.
Then in 1914 World War I broke out. For the Zoo this meant that in the autumn of 1914 the only building that remain to this day was transformed from the director’s premises to a hospital for wounded WWI soldiers. The WWI impact compounded Russia’s suffering from a number of economic and social problems, which resulted first in the 1917 February revolution followed by the October revolution. In the aftermath of the Great October Socialist Revolution of 1917 and the fall of the Russian Empire, the Society ceased to exist, and in 1919 the Zoological Garden was declared national property and transferred under the responsibility of the ministry of Culture of the communist Moscow parliament, the Mossovet. In 1922 it was transferred to the authority of Moscow City Council and since then it has been supported by the City Authorities. Construction work began on the Zoo grounds. The Zoological Garden premises almost doubled in size with the establishment of the ‘New’ territory on the opposite side of Bolshaya Gruzinskaya street. New exhibits, which followed the principle of Carl Hagenbeck’s bar-less enclosure design were established. One of the most interesting exhibits of the Zoo called ‘Animal Island’ still exists. It was a high stony rock surrounded by a deep water ditch that separated the visitors from bears, tigers, lions and other large predators on the ‘Island’. The total size at the time was nearly 18 hectares.
In 1926 the Zoological Garden was renamed ‘Zoological Park’. At that time the range of activities extended, the animal collection increased considerably with expeditions collecting wildlife in Central Asia, the Far East and the Caucasus. New departments were established, focussed on for instance scientific research, education, veterinary science and nutrition. In those same years Moscow Zoo was the first zoo in the world where educational activities were the main priority.
In 1924 the Zoo had established the Young Biologists Club that gathered like-minded young people that joined in real scientific research. Many of them became a Zoo employee. The Club was founded by Petr Manteifel, who also was the pioneer father of the science called ‘zoo biology’. Manteifel and his young biologists discovered a way of artificial breeding sables (Martes zibellina), which were on the verge of extinction due to man’s insatiable pursuit for its expensive fur. In the 1930 s during Stalin’s great purge many members of the Young Biologists Club were arrested accused of spreading anti-soviet propaganda and liberal-minded ideas and having contact with German colleagues at Berlin zoo, some were even executed as foreign spies. The Club was considered a non-governmental organisation beyond the direct control of the authorities, which in fact was partly true because the Club was a real democracy, with membership available to all.
Although many animals were evacuated and many of the zoo staff were called to arms at the beginning of World War II the Zoo was kept open. Of the 750 employees at autumn 1941 only 220 remained on the staff, most of them women. Getting enough food for the animals was a constant challenge, for instance carcasses of killed horse at the battlefield around Moscow were brought to the zoo. More than six million people visited the Zoo from 1941 to 1945 to enjoy the sights of animals that had remained.
At wartime the scientific work proceeded, perhaps even more intense than before or after the war. The scientific staff worked especially on development of antibiotics. But the most important mission of the Zoo during the war was to give people hope. It produced the illusion of a peaceful life until people survived through the desperation of the war with the Red Army soldiers as the most frequent visitors of the Zoo. Which were given the pleasure of watching newborn offspring even during the war.
During the soviet union period ( 1922 − 1991 ) not many highly ranked people cared about the zoo — no soviet leader had any interest in it. The city encroached on the zoo premises, while the zoo needed additional space for the ever expanding zoo population of animals. Because the breeding results were still excellent.
The Zoo lived up to the goal it had set for itself and made educational activities the main priority. Zoo staff distributed knowledge in the field of natural history and tried to raise the public awareness and concern about the necessity for wildlife conservation. The zoo assisted schoolchildren and students with studying biology, actively participated in scientific research, and actively contributed to scientific publications. So, the Zoo became one of the larger scientific institutions in Moscow. And of course it still was the favourite recreational place for Moscow citizens and those who visited the city.
As off 1974 when Igos Sosnovsky retired as director and his successor Vladimir Spitsyn took over Moscow Zoo became part of the international zoo community again. Sosnovsky as a WWII veteran hadn’t been able to brush aside the fear of repression and avoided all international contacts for some reason. Spitsyn restored all international activities from before the war and the Zoo became member of many European and International Breeding Programmes in which it exchanged its rare and endangered animals, shared experience and information.
Although already in the 1970 s improvement of all zoo facilities was needed and ideas of a new zoo in another region of Moscow were launched, nothing happened due to local economical and social problems. By the end of the 1980 s the Zoo’s condition became alarming. Facilities were deteriorating, enclosures were dilapidated and technical equipment needed to be replaced as well. And while a few improvements had been achieved — such as a partial renovation of the main entrance, the monkey house and lion house — urgent measures were still needed.
Then, in 1992 the new Moscow government made a decision to start the most ambitious reconstruction project in Moscow Zoo’s history with the first stage of the project to be completed by 1997 , when the 850 th anniversary of the City would be celebrated. Anatoly A. Andreev who had been involved in the Zoo’s design and architecture since the 1970 s headed the team of architects. The project’s renovation objectives were focussed at (a) preservation or partial renovation of the historically valuable buildings and existing pools, (b) reduction of the noise from the surrounding streets, © connection of the Old and the New territory via a footbridge, and (d) expansion of the Old territory by incorporating adjacent areas and buildings.
Besides the preservation and renovation of almost all important zoo constructions, including the ones that actually were dilapidated, many new enclosures and facilities were built. Already in 1993 the footbridge that connected the Old and New territory was completed. It allowed visitors to avoid crossing the busy B. Gruzinskaya street with its heavy traffic. In 1993 other constructions were completed as well, such as an enclosure for large birds of prey and a complex of enclosures for feline species, including leopards, Pallas’ cats and lynx. Next, the Hagenbeck-style ‘Animal Island’, one of the most remarkable exhibits in the New territory, was renovated. The historic appearance with enclosures that resembled the natural habitats of Amur tiger, striped hyena, African wild dog and Asian black bear was preserved. Later they introduced Asian lions in one of the enclosures around the large rock in the centre of the ‘island’. During the renovation they created the Exotarium, which held several aquariums, inside the rock on the second floor.
The following years many more enclosures were renovated, besides the new research and veterinarian facilities that were put into operation in 1994 . In 1996 , the main entrance itself (featuring a small artificial waterfall) was reconstructed. The same year the old, dilapidated elephant complex was demolished and a new elephant house was erected at the same spot, while the inhabitants (four African elephants and four Asian elephants) were temporarily moved to a a former tram depot that was completely renovated and specially equipped. A new children’s zoo was opened in the New territory, including a children’s theatre that organises shows with educational elements. And besides several aviaries, a pavilion for water birds was built on the shore of the large pond in the New territory.
Although in those days 4 additional hectares of space was added to the former existing 18 hectares, the Zoo still lacked space to create favourable conditions for their species to breed. And its location in the centre of Moscow didn’t contribute to the favourable breeding conditions they wanted of course. Therefore, the 200 hectares area near the city of Volokolamsk (about 100 km from Moscow) that was given to the Zoo in 1996 for the establishment of a breeding station was very much welcomed (see also Breeding Centre ).
The first major stage of the general reconstruction of the Moscow zoo represents a unique event. Not only over 50 facilities have been renovated ( 90 % of all existing facilities) and newly built, but it was achieved in such a short period of time. But maintenance and small and larger refurbishment is ongoing business in a zoo. So, i n 2002 , the Moscow City Government and the City Council allocated the necessary funds to start construction of a new pavilion for the Asian elephants. In 2003 the three elephants could move house already, and in spring 2009 , the first newborn elephant calf was welcomed.
The Moscow Zoological Park has come a long way from the small zoological garden it was to the large institution of scientific research, education, conservation and recreation it is today. And due to the dynamics of the standards used in the zoo community regarding animal health and welfare, Moscow Zoo is constantly improving its facilities, also during 2014 celebrating its 150 th anniversary.
(Source: Moscow Zoo website; Zoo with a Human Face, to the 150 th anniversary of the Moscow Zoo — a documentary by Darya Violina and Sergei Pavlovsky, 2014 ; Zoo and Aquarium History by Vernon N. Kisling, Jr., 2001 ; Wikipedia)
An account of 150 years of history of the Moscow Zoo
(A documentary by Darya Violina and Sergei Pavlovsky)
The history of Moscow Zoo shown through the perspective of the lives of the people who have been important to the Zoo’s development and continuous progress over those many years since 1864 . Thousands of photographs, hundreds of chronicles, accounts and recollections that have preserved the story that began so long ago, against all odds, and lasts uninterrupted to this day. A documentary about those who have devoted their lives to serving a noble and rewarding cause, those who have started from scratch, those who maintained that work and about those who revive the Zoo as off today.
(Source: sdpavlovskiy YouTube channel)
20 . 06 . 2014
Finally, Moscow Zoo is paid a visit. I have been looking forward to this for quite some time. It has been on my to-do list since I learnt about the large collection of feline species on display at the Zoo. So, I am here on this sunny day in June to satisfy my curiosity, in the year they celebrate the Zoo’s 150 th anniversary.
I am entering as one of the 1 , 5 million paying attendance yearly. Which is not even half of the total number of visitors a year. This is about 4 million, because there are specific categories (e.g. disabled, pensioners, children, students, etc.) for whom the admission is free.
OLD TERRITORY
I turn left after the main entrance to visit the large predator section of the Old territory. Not that only here you will find predators, but the greatest part of their predator collection is grouped in this section. I will come back to the grouping of Moscow Zoo’s animal collection later. After having walked along a fence that blocks most of the views on the work in progress at the lake I arrive at what they call here the ‘tropical cats’ section: Bengal tiger (unfortunately the genetically aberrant version — a white tiger), jaguar and cheetah. Both the tiger and the jaguar have their indoor enclosures in the same house built at the perimeter of the premises. The cheetahs have their shelter for the night and bad weather in their outdoor paddock, so that cannot be visited. The tiger and the jaguar however have interesting housing that serves the needs for both the cats and the visitors. The latter are pleased with Asian and South American (Inca) ornaments to make sure they understand the geographical origin of the species. While the walls have murals representing the species’ original habitat … Machu Pichu for the jaguar. The animals themselves have various enrichment features at their disposal, including high level observation posts, in rather small exhibits. The outdoor facilities for these two species are accessible from the indoors. It has natural vegetation, but not a lot. Likewise there are not a lot of options to shelter from extreme weather or loud crowds. Although the cats have access to several resting posts at different levels, these enclosures can do with some improvements — at least more vegetation — to make them better fit for purpose, in my opinion. The enormous exposure of the cats is also due to the fact that they use windows to separate animal from man along almost the total length of the enclosures.
When I walk the few steps to the entrance of the Bear House, which is like the jaguar and tiger indoor enclosure built at the edge of the Zoo grounds, I pass in between the Pallas’ cat exhibit and a second jaguar exhibit. The Pallas’ cat has a flat grassy area with three large trees, some shrubs and a potential pond (when filled with water) available in its outdoor enclosure. Windows all around and a wire mesh roof prevent the cat from fleeing this scenery that doesn’t resemble the cat’s original Himalyan habitat. Across the footpath there’s a jaguar enclosure that’s more interesting than the one directly neighbouring the tiger. This one has a small stream and loads of vegetation and a multilevel resting platform. Still the animal is quite exposed.
The Bear House provides a nice and secluded area where three adjacent bear enclosures houses sloth bear and spectacled bear. As a visitor you walk via a roofed corridor more or less in the dark along the enclosures having good views on the exhibit via man-sized windows. The enclosures have a dry shallow moat at the visitor’s side, but I don’t think this withhold the bears from coming close to the windows. The enclosures are small but almost completely filled with enrichment features including various platforms, a tree trunk structure, rubber hammocks and natural vegetation. Considering the design I think these enclosures offer peace and quiet for the bears, unless people start banging the windows of course.
In slightly larger enclosures they keep Amur leopard, snow leopard and cougar ( Puma concolor ). At all of these felid species enclosures the distance between the public barrier and the fence does allow contact when people lean far forward.
Further along the footpath around the corner the arctic fox and the dhole are housed in enclosures that have a similar interior design as those for the felids. Despite the fact that these species live under different natural circumstances in the wild (forest and tundra habitat respectively).
When I walk back to have a look at the large birds of prey aviary I cannot prevent myself to have a brief look at the giraffe enclosure as well. It’s obviously a relic of the past that is not fit for purpose anymore. Still they have one reticulated giraffe on display at a saddening small area. It loves to be fed by the public that doesn’t care about the warning not to feed the animals. On the other side of the building a similar pitiful situation for the single white-tailed gnu can be seen.
One of the most extraordinary group of species brought together on display can be found right after the row of predator enclosures. The maned wolf from South America has the red-necked wallaby and emu from Australia as neighbour. But also in the same area the African wild dog is on display as well as white-tailed gnu (Africa) and kiang (Asia) in the row of stables along the rim of the premises.
The raccoon exhibit is worth mentioning considering the aforementioned accident risks. It has a very typical enclosure design with electrical wire on top of windows surrounding the entire exhibit. The electrical wire is within reach of the public. So, there are numerous warning signs! But why they installed electrical wire on top of windows that are unclimbable for raccoons? To keep out the public perhaps?
In the bird house, in the far end corner from the main entrance, birds from all geographical regions are grouped together, including Humboldt penguin and African penguin. The house consists of two part with one part half empty, and has also very common species on display, such as wild turkey, common pheasant and European hedgehog. Outside this building several aviaries comprise a large array of parrot species (South America and Australia).
Proceeding with my tour around the Old territory I have a look at the Asian elephant house and its surrounding grounds. The fancy steel with blue details of the elephant house doesn’t appeal to me, but that is just a matter of taste. It is definitely the most modern exhibit in the Zoo I’ve seen yet, in style and in size, with a nice pool at the visitor’s side.
I skip the reptile house to save some time, and money too, because an additional fee complies. So I walk straight to another modern enclosure — the bar-less and moated wolf exhibit. Although it has a Hagenbeck-style design, the space available for the wolves is ridiculously small. The wolves will never be able to cross the water-filled moat and climb the wall and thus break out, still there is impressive electrical wiring in place on top of the wall. Again, probably to keep out the public.
Making my way to the footbridge that connects the Old and New territory I pass along a very old-fashioned row of enclosures built in a semicircle in front of the 16 metres high sculpture by Zurab Tsereteli called ‘Tree of Fairy Tales’, 1996 . The enclosures house several species of mustelidae (sable, European polecat, stone marten), as well as African wild cats. Then followed by several aviaries again. At this point I am really lost regarding the way they group the Zoo’s animal collection.
NEW TERRITORY
Proceeding clockwise I find the doors of the Tropical House closed for renovation. So, no butterflies for me this time. But in one of the two spacious aviaries around this house I discover several ducks, such as the mandarin duck and the black-bellied whistling duck, together with the common kestrel ( Falco tinnunculus ), though neither rare nor endangered.
Then a rather special exhibit appears, the Animal Island, which was developed in the 1920 s as one of the first Hagenbeck-style enclosures in the New territory. Although it took some renovation activities it still exists to this very day. In the centre of this moated area they have erected a fake ruined fortress, which serves as the background for the species in the surrounding exhibits. These bar-less exhibits have a more modern appearance but it isn’t necessarily an improvement for the animals. For instance the Asian black bear has a bare environment with minor enrichment available and no vegetation, but the brown bear is even worse off in a similar enclosure but next to nothing of enrichment features. The tundra wolf ( Canis lupus alba ) and the striped hyena have a little better place at their disposal, but the Asian lions have by far the best enclosure. They have several resting platforms, trees and a stream that ends in the moat. Again to save time I skip an exhibit. This time the Exotarium with its aquariums that has been created inside the ruined fortress and by the way requires an additional fee to get in.
One of the rare areas in Moscow Zoo where you find mixed-species exhibits is called ‘Fauna of the Savannah’. It has a South American section with capybara vicuna and guanaco, and — very importantly — a large pool at the disposal of the largest rodent on earth. Though absolutely not endangered, these water-loving capybaras should have access to water at all times, in my opinion. The real savannah area with African species has several enclosures. A mixed species exhibit with sable antelope and dikdik. And Grevy’s zebra together with ostrich and giraffe. Also this time there’s only one giraffe in the paddock. The location of the meerkat enclosure is well chosen, because when they sit on top of one of their hills they can watch the other animals. Although it is the largest and probably the most modern facility at the Moscow Zoo I still think it is disappointingly mediocre compared to other zoos I have seen in Europe and North America.
Before I go to the primate section I buy myself an ice cream and walk along the horse stables on the eastern edge of the New territory premises. Looking for an answer to the question “why are there horse stables at this place?” The question still waits for an answer.
At Moscow Zoo they keep both Sumatran as Bornean orangutans, which is quite unusual. The outdoors for the five individuals, including 2 young, of the Sumatran species looks impressive due to the enormously high rock face at the rear. The wall looks extra impressive because it is rather close to the viewing windows. Unfortunately, the exhibit lacks trees and vegetation other than grass while the enrichment is scant and I don’t see puzzle feeders. The Bornean orangutans have a similar outdoor enclosure, but it is suggested that olive baboons ( Papio anubis ) are on display here as well. It could be that they alternate in the same outdoor enclosure, but this is not very clear.
The western lowland gorillas also have a similar outdoor enclosure design due to which the animals are enormously exposed to the inquisitive public. Considering the number of youngsters Moscow Zoo appears to be having good results breeding orangutans and gorillas.
Indoors, all the great ape exhibits have much enrichment and jungle-like murals, but the agile gibbon has even more enrichment inside. I haven’t seen a specific outdoor enclosure for the agile gibbon but it could be possible that it alternates with the Sumatran orangutans. Only this enclosure lacks high trees or other options for the gibbon to brachiate, which is its natural behaviour in the canopy of the gibbon’s native habitat, the rainforests of southeast Asia.
The terrarium building, located behind the Primate House, is beautifully decorated with little mosaic tiles. They have the usual row of exhibits, but in this case especially the larger reptiles and tortoises (python, crocodiles, alligator, tortoise) are kept. And outside they have two giant tortoise species, the Aldabra and the Galapagos tortoise.
On my return to the exit I pass the exhibits of a few of the many predator species they have on display at Moscow Zoo. The polar bear is provided with a big heap of artificial ice, but that’s about it when it comes to enrichment, though there are some plastic drums to play with. The enclosure as such is the prototype of polar bear enclosures worldwide, rear wall of cement and large bricks, concrete floor, large and deep water-filled moat. Unfortunately, again here the annoying reflecting windows. The yellow-throated marten I do not see, and the same counts for the Eurasian otter in its large elongated outdoor exhibit with a shallow pool along the whole length. It must be great to see the submerged otters swim in this pool.
Conclusion There are several ways to group a collection of animals which can support a zoo’s educational efforts. Of course, some people just come to the zoo to be entertained, but when an individual is ready to learn some things the worst thing you can do is confuse him or her. And to be fairly honest, confusing it is. Sometimes they group the collection according their taxonomic tree, which is the case with the felids, the bird species and the primates. Then again they have decided to present the collection by geographical origin, like in the ‘Fauna of the Savannah’, or according original habitat like the mountain-dwelling tur and markhor. And at some point they just make a mess of the grouping, for instance in the area with the maned wolf, the red-necked wallaby and others. In the end it seems the Zoo just want to have on display as many species as possible, because all species that live in herds they keep them in small numbers. I do understand that it is not easy, requires tough decisions and certainly is not cheap to rearrange your entire collection, especially when it is that huge as it is here at Moscow Zoo. Anyway, further renovation is foreseen and probably some rethinking as well.
I hope that they get rid of all these windows they have at so many exhibits. For some situations it is inevitable I understand, but I sincerely hope they will return to the original Hagenbeck idea of bar-less enclosures, taking into account modern husbandry standards of course. As the position of the sun makes it sometimes hard to get even the slightest glimpse of the animals due to the reflections in the windows. And last but not least they have the tendency to have windows all around or at more than 50 percent of the perimeter of an enclosure. Most of the time leading to more exposure of the animals to the public and possible unrest.
Sumatran orangutan youngsters at Moscow Zoo
Just another day at the zoo for these orangutans ( Pongo abelii ) — nothing much exciting going on in this safe and secure environment. But wouldn’t it be nice to see them swinging and romping in the forests of Sumatra.….
Raccoons at Moscow Zoo
Raccoons are known for their habit to clean their food in the water before eating it. It seems they also want to have a clean ball before playing with it.
Breeding Centre
Information and education, zoo details, breeding farm.
The Moscow Zoo has always been trying to create the most favourable conditions for their animals to fulfil their basic needs. Not only for animal health and welfare purposes but also to breed the animals successfully. These specific breeding conditions could not be achieved due to its location in the City centre and the lack of space. In 1996 the Zoo came into possession of an area of 200 hectares near the city of Volokolamsk (about 100 km from Moscow). In this picturesque hilly area of the former quarries of the Sychovo mining factory, with streams, springs and artificial ponds better opportunities were available for breeding various — predominantly rare — species of animals.
The main goals of the Breeding Centre, besides maintaining rare and endangered species of animals, are establishing breeding pairs and groups and developing new husbandry methods. Since excessive disturbance is likely to have adverse effect on the breeding efforts, the actual Breeding Centre is not open to the public.
The construction of the Breeding Centre started in March 1996 . The first inhabitants of the Centre were birds of prey and waterfowl and they have been successfully breeding birds ever since. The collection of waterfowl has grown notably since the beginning. Apart from the numerous mallards and ruddy shelducks, the inhabitants of the ponds include pintails, pochards, tufted ducks and black geese of the genus Branta. Bewick’s swans are thriving, raising their chicks every year. Japanese, white-naped and Siberian cranes are also breeding successfully and many other species, including parrots. The breeding centre for birds of prey is continuously expanding, with Himalayan griffon vultures, golden eagles, imperial eagles, Steller’s sea eagles, and black vultures among its most prominent inhabitants. Regular breeding has also been achieved in saker falcons ( Falco cherrug ).
They keep carnivorous mammals as well at the Breeding Centre. These include endangered species such as Amur leopard, Pallas’ cat, cheetah, Amur tiger, dhole, wolverine, and yellow-throated marten. Of these species the Amur leopard is listed Critically Endangered according the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™ , with about 45 individuals left in the wild. The Zoo’s track record says they have produced offspring from Pallas’ cat, dhole, yellow-throated marten, and Amur tiger.
For the ungulates that are kept at the Centre the environment is almost ideal. There are bactrian camels as well as kiangs, Saiga antelopes, blue sheep and vicunas. Hoofed animals originating from mountainous areas have large paddocks at their disposal that are situated on the slopes of the surrounding hills, more or less similar to their natural habitat.
Besides the more rare and endangered species the Centre also has an interesting collection of domestic hens, a horse stable and a dog-breeding centre, mainly for the breeding of Central Asian sheep dogs. Furthermore, there is a small quail farm and a poultry farm with layer hens.
Moreover a subsidiary farm in Lotoshino houses some cattle, smaller livestock, and the main herd of bactrian camels and yaks. The area of the subsidiary farm is about 51 hectares and it comprises hayfields, pastures, a sheepfold and an apiary. Most importantly it provides the Moscow Zoo with ecological feed for its animals.
The Breeding Centre’s collection comprises 10 species of carnivores, 6 species of ungulates, 74 species of birds and a great number of domestic animals, but the collection is expanding constantly. Although it is still closed to visitors, the Zoo’s goal is to open part of the farm (as they call the Breeding Centre themselves) to outside visitors soon. They plan to create an additional safari park at the location of the Breeding Centre.
(Source: Moscow Zoo website; Zoo with a Human Face, to the 150 th anniversary of the Moscow Zoo — a documentary by Darya Violina and Sergei Pavlovsky, 2014 )
Information panels and Education at the Zoo
First thing to be noticed of course is that the information on the panels around Moscow Zoo is given in the Russian language. And no other language. This is not unexpected as most of the information provided in Moscow is only in Russian. Fortunately, the name of the species on display is given in English as well, together with its scientific name. As far as I can tell and understand no information is provided on the species conservation status (or IUCN Red List status). On the new revamped website this information is available but only in Russian and no icons or logos are used, so you have to rely on machine translation services. The panels show geographic maps of the species distribution and sometimes the IUCN status and if the species is part of EEP /ESB, as well. But this is not done consistently, and I am not sure how reliable the information is. Nevertheless I have been able to find on the internet a list of species that represent the Moscow Zoo contribution to the European Endangered species Programmes (EEPs).
There is also a zoo school that is primarily focussed on children, and I assume that the Young Biologists Club still exist. Foremost because it has been very successfully delivering a range of important staff members over the years.
- Directions
directions to Moscow Zoo
Address : B. Gruzinskaya 1 123242 Moscow Russia
public transport
The metro system can be quite intimidating for foreigners because of the language issue, but I can assure you it is the best way of navigating the city. The metro stations are the most beautiful I’ve ever seen and buying tickets can be done using sign language (see the tripadvisor website how it is done). When you are not able to decipher the Cyrillic alphabet on the fly it is best to prepare your metro trip beforehand and make sure that you know how many stops you have to travel from the departure station to your destination, including transfer stations. Another way of travel support is the Art-Lebedev metro map , which has the names of the stations both in Russian and English mentioned. The most fancy way however is by using the Russian metro app on your smartphone. The Yandex.Metro app — provides a bilingual metro map which can even build connection routes for you and estimate travel times.
Moscow Zoo’s main entrance is conveniently located right across from the Krasnopresnenskaya metro station on the Brown Circular line (no. 5 ). Also the Barrikadnaya metro station is rather close to the main entrance, Purple line (no. 7 ).
by bicycle
As mentioned already Moscow is a very large city. So, it really depends on how close you already are to the Zoo if cycling could be an option. The obvious challenge is the traffic which has grown dramatically in recent years — the centre of Moscow is a non-stop traffic jam. Furthermore the poor driving habits of Moscow motorists are notorious, from road rage to rear-ending. In addition, knee-deep snow and the grimy slush that inevitably follows during the long and fearsome winters doesn’t make cycling in Moscow a very attractive mode of transport. Nevertheless the City Council tries to make the city more bike-friendly with a bike rental scheme like in many major cities around the world. I decided to use the metro.
There is no dedicated parking available at the Zoo, but if you really want to drive yourself you can get directions below by providing your point of departure.
From : -- Choose source -- Moscow Zoo or
Download the zoo map here .
Goal: 7000 tigers in the wild
“ Tiger map” ( CC BY 2 . 5 ) by Sanderson et al., 2006 .
Latest Additions
Tallinn zoological gardens, tallinna loomaaed, stadt haag zoo, tierpark stadt haag, salzburg zoo, krefeld zoo, cerza zoo, cerza parc zoologique lisieux, bratislava zoo, rheine zoo, naturzoo rheine.
- Help Center
- Plan Your Visit
- Places to Stay
- Youth Programs
- Student & Youth Groups
- Dining Programs
- Events & Catering
- Live Cameras
- Our Mission
Safari Park Single Day Tickets
Buy online and save, seniors free in february.
February 1-29, 2024, Senior 65+ entrance is free, no ticket required. Parking is not included. Learn More
1-Day Pass – Any Day
Includes: One visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park®, Africa Tram, and all regularly scheduled experiences. Experiences above subject to availability.
1-Day Pass Any Day tickets valid any day within one year from date of purchase. Cannot be exchanged for Value Days ticket. No reservation required.
$74 $72
$64 $62, 1-day pass – value days.
1-Day Pass Value Days tickets valid on any Value Day (see calendar) within one year from date of purchase. Cannot be combined with any other discount/offer/promotion. No reservation required.
$74 $68
$64 $58, multi-day / multi-park tickets, 2-visit pass.
Includes: One visit to the San Diego Zoo and one visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park -or- Two visits to the San Diego Zoo -or- Two visits to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Two total visits by the same person on any and all days.
2-Visit Pass tickets valid on any day within one year from date of purchase. Tickets cannot be combined with any other discount/offer/promotion. 2-Visit Pass cannot be exchanged for Value Days tickets. No reservation required.
San Diego 3-for-1 Pass
Enjoy visits to the San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and SeaWorld® San Diego. The San Diego 3-for-1 Pass is valid for one visit per attraction—three total visits—by the same person on any and all days. Valid for seven consecutive days from the first visit.
Go San Diego Pass
Discover 55+ top San Diego attractions and enjoy incredible savings with Go City. Meet wildlife at the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, spend the day at SeaWorld®, explore the USS Midway, cruise the bay with Speedboat Adventures, and more!
San Diego CityPASS®
One easy purchase saves big on admission to San Diego's top attractions and theme parks, including San Diego Zoo Safari Park, SeaWorld®, and LEGOLAND®.
No need to decide now, choose which attractions as you go. Visit the attractions at your own pace, in any order, over a 9-day period. No reservation required.
Membership offers a variety of ways to visit both the Zoo and Safari Park all year long. Please visit our membership pages for more details.
Starting as low as $95 per person
San Diego Zoo Gift Cards make the perfect gift! A gift card is valid toward San Diego Zoo and Safari Park admission packages, gift shop and food-stand purchases, tours and education programs, Zoo memberships, and more!
IMAGES
COMMENTS
Facebook - facebook.com/sdzsafariparkInstagram - instagram.com/sdzsafariparkTwitter - twitter.com/sdzsafariparkTumblr - sdzsafaripark.tumblr.comPinterest - p...
What to expect at the Safari Park featuring a comprehensive guide to the exhibits, attractions, animals, with tips and information. We start with 10 things y...
Cams at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and San Diego Zoo. SAFARI PARK Platypus Cam. VIEW CAM. SAFARI PARK Giraffe Cam. VIEW CAM. SAFARI PARK Tiger Cam. VIEW CAM. SAFARI PARK Burrowing Owl Cams. VIEW CAMS. SAFARI PARK Condor Cam. VIEW CAM. ... Videos; Shop; Our Mission; Support Us;
The Safari Park is the San Diego Zoo's sister park located about 35 miles to the northeast in Escondido from the main San Diego Zoo park. About 20 times the...
Cams at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and San Diego Zoo. SAN DIEGO ZOO Koala Cam. VIEW CAM. SAN DIEGO ZOO Baboon Cam. VIEW CAM. SAN DIEGO ZOO Polar Cam. VIEW CAM. SAN DIEGO ZOO Penguin Cam. VIEW CAM. SAN DIEGO ZOO Ape Cam. VIEW CAM. ... Videos; Shop; Our Mission; Support Us;
Picture Your Special Day at the Park! LEARN MORE. Join the web's most supportive community of creators and get high-quality tools for hosting, sharing, and streaming videos in gorgeous HD with no ads.
Platypus Cam. You're watching a live stream of the Safari Park's platypuses—the only ones in the US. These special animals serve as ambassadors for the species outside of their native Australia and communicate the importance of fresh water for both humans and wildlife, and we're honored to be entrusted with their care. You're watching a ...
San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Escondido, California. 718,373 likes · 43,874 talking about this · 841,603 were here. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located 30 miles north of downtown San Diego and is...
There are two swimming pools for the San Diego Safari Park herd in this 5-and-a-half acre habitat. There are two main yards. One is usually open while the other is being cleaned of copious amounts of elephant dung and stocked with treats. In most cases, the Elephant Viewing Patio will be the best place to watch them.
Prowl around with the Sumatran tigers of the Safari Park! Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SanDiegoZoo/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sandiegozoo/ ...
Videos. Learn More. Creature Comforts. PREFERRED HOTELS. LEARN MORE. Wild Weddings. Picture Your Special Day at the Park! ... Visit; San Diego Zoo; San Diego Zoo Safari Park; News & Resources; Journal; Podcasts; Animals & Plants; Press Room; Discover; Academy; San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers; Adventure Travel; Get Involved; Jobs; Volunteer ...
Day and Night. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time, you're watching the live cam from the Safari Park. From 5 p.m. to 9 a.m., we rebroadcast the morning and afternoon stream. Learn About Tigers Tiger Blog.
A young male lion might have a less developed and lighter-colored mane compared to older males. It could be more of a tuft or fringe around the neck rather than a full, robust mane. Video by San Diego Zoo Safari Park #wildlife #wildlifephotography #animalphotography #lion
Flightline Safari. Ages 8 & up. $81 & up per person. Soar as high as 130 feet above the ground, with a spectacular bird's-eye view of rhinos, giraffes, and other wildlife in the savanna habitats below you. READ MORE.
What to Know. Butterfly Jungle Safari tickets go on sale the week of Feb. 26, 2024. March 18 through May 14 (daily) $15 per person (ages 1 and up); admission to San Diego Zoo Safari Park is ...
Colleen Wisinski, conservation program manager at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, releases a burrowing owl into a habitat at the Ramona Grasslands Preserve on Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024. Three of ...
The new white-handed gibbon was born on Feb. 17. It is the first ape to be born at the park in nearly 28 years. Park officials said the ape will cling to its mother until it matures and begins to ...
481 likes, 4 comments - 619_zoogramma on February 25, 2024: "Winston's Girls! 轢 Beautiful video this morning from San Diego Safari park. 轢 ..." Gramma Kiki on Instagram: "Winston's Girls! 🙌🦍 Beautiful video this morning from San Diego Safari park. 🦍🌟🌥️🌥️ My girl Leslie is getting so big!
For the latest videos, visit @San Diego Zoo. As of January 2022, this account is no longer active and serves as an archive. For the latest videos, visit @San Diego Zoo. ...
Tours, things to do, sightseeing tours, day trips and more from Viator. Find and book city tours, helicopter tours, day trips, show tickets, sightseeing day tours, popular activities and things to do in hundreds of destinations worldwide, plus unbiased tour reviews and photos of tours and attractions from thousands of travelers
From the wilds of Alaska and the lush coastline of Oregon, to the ancient canyons of the Southwest and the rolling hills of the Appalachian Trail, Into America's Wild is a non-stop ride via kayak, train, bike, hot air balloon and more that explores the transformational allure of wild places and the human connection we all share with the ...
Less than 5 days, payment is non-refundable. Wildlife Safaris are an all-weather event, however during periods of inclement weather please call 619-718-3000 to check the status of your tour. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park reserves the right to cancel or reroute a tour due to inclement weather, animal health, and/or safety concerns.
Video de TikTok de Roberto Delgado (@robertoalonsodq): «Un día de trabajo en el @San Diego Zoo Safari Park 🦏🐴🦒 #sandiego #zoo #safaripark #horse #caballo ...
A visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a safari into adventure where guests can see herds of African animals (rhino, giraffe, antelope and gazelle) roam...
1. Black Point Fissures. 6. Geologic Formations. By KonstantinS862. Found a 4WD trail from the west, which ends with 2-slot parking about 500m away from the fissures. Right after the... 2. Mono Hot Springs.
2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101. The San Diego Zoo is the Safari Park's sister park to the southwest in San Diego. Distance between the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is 35 miles. Please allow 45 minutes to 1 hour travel time. Purchase a two-park pass here.
So, the Zoo went into private hands of the Ryabinins' family in 1874. They transformed the Zoo into an amusement park and in three years time ruined the place. In 1878 the Zoo was run by the Society for Acclimatization of Plants and Animals again, including fund raising activities. This time the Society was able to ...
Are you ready to explore with Blippi! Join Blippi in this very special episode as he visits San Diego Zoo Safari Park! Join Blippi as he visits one of the wo...
1-Day Pass - Any Day. Online offer only; advance purchase required. Includes: One visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park®, Africa Tram, and all regularly scheduled experiences. Experiences above subject to availability. 1-Day Pass Any Day tickets valid any day within one year from date of purchase. Cannot be exchanged for Value Days ticket.