The Smithsonian National Zoo was founded in 1889 by an Act of Congress for “the advancement of science and the instruction and recreation of the people.” Located in Washington, D.C. the National Zoo, free to visitors, is set on 163 acres of Rock Creek Park and is now home to 2000 individual animals of 400…
Passing the colobus with their rock star capes fluttering in the breeze as they perched in their trees, we came upon the African wild dog enclosure. Also known as the painted dog for their splotched coat that looks like a modern artist’s canvas if one could get past their comically large ears. Running around his…
With the many animals I’ve worked with – reptiles, insects, mammals or birds – I must admit I’ve always found that birds easily show their unique personalities. I mention this because of one of the birds we met along a path at the Philadelphia Zoo that caught my eye. Strutting along the fence of its…
After lunch by Philadelphia Zoo’s Bird Lake, a large “lake” in the middle of the zoos grounds where visitors can ride in swan paddle boats, we strolled into Big Cat Falls. An award winning exhibit, Big Cat Falls houses twelve big cats from around the world. Walking along winding paths you pass spacious enclosures filled…
The PECO Primate Reserve is where you will find most of the Philadelphia Zoo’s beloved primates. Here you’ll find ten species of primates including; gibbons, tamarins, gorillas, lemurs, and orangutans. Approaching the building you’ll pass a mini island of sorts where you’ll find the Buddhist-like ring-tailed lemurs sun worshiping amidst the trees. Within the PECO Primate…
Exiting the Rare Animal Conservation Center we headed for the Reptile House. Housing over 125 species of reptiles and amphibians and on the day we went probably equal the amount of excited screaming children, the Reptile House is also home some giants, Aldabra and Galapagos tortoises. It was truly a gift to see these gentle giants…
Amidst Fairmount Park, the largest city park in the country sits the oldest zoo in America, Philadelphia Zoo. Walking up to the entrance from the bus stop across the street you pass by some of Philadelphia’s famed murals, these litter the walls and columns of the rail bridge, depicting many of the animals you’ll see at…
Lady of the Zoos 