Zoos in the South
As the summer wraps up and Labor Day approaches, many people are looking for that last outdoor adventure. One perfect option for enjoying those summer rays is to spend the day at the zoo. But, how do you know which ones are worth visiting and which ones you need to go out of your way for? Here is my opinion on those “must see” zoos in the south:
- The Audobon Zoo in New Orleans is considered one of the top zoos in the country. It is home to over 1,800 animals, lush vegetations, an impressive swamp filled with alligators, a jaguar jungle and ‘hands on’ animal exhibits. In addition to the impressive collection of exotic animals, the zoo is home to an endangered species carousel, a simulator and swamp train and a marketplace. While you are visiting the zoo, make sure to save time for the Aquarium of the Americas, the Insectarium and the Entergy IMAX Theatre.
- The Dallas Zoo was founded in 1888. With over 95 acres to explore, you will be entertained for hours. Although the Dallas Zoo is known for their wide variety of animals, they are best known for the children’s zoo, the Wilds of Africa exhibit, the Gorilla Conservation Research Center and the giant 67 1/2 giant giraffe sculpture that marks the zoo’s entrance. For those who wanted a deeper look into what happens at the zoo, be sure to experience The New Zoo RangerTM. This portable device fits into the palm of your hand and is filled with audio, video, text and pictures that tell the story of the people and animals at the zoo. The Dallas Aquarium shouldn’t be missed either as it contains a seahorse rodeo, the world of aquatic diversity and a rare and endangered species breeding lab.
- The National Zoo in Washington D.C. has received international attention for being the home to the giant pandas. Besides the panda exhibit, this zoo had demonstrated leadership in animal care, science and education. Their 163 acre landscape resembles the natural habitat of many of the animals it houses, and over 5,000 animals call The National Zoo their home. Everyday, there are programs that give visitors a more in depth understanding of what takes place at the zoo. These educational programs range from Bird Interpreters, Giant Octopus Feeding and Seal or Sea Lion Training.
- The Miami Metrozoo is home to over 1,000 animals and 400 species. Owned and operated by the Miami-Dade County Park and Recreation Department, they have developed a close relationship with the Miami-Dade Public School system. Together they work to enhance the science curriculum at the schools and offer educational enrichment programs for the students during and after school hours. The Miami Metrozoo is also well known for the Wings of Asia exhibit, the largest open air Asian aviary in the Western Hemisphere with over 300 exotic, rare and endangered birds. Whether you want to take a ride on the camels, visit Diego in the discovery den or learn on your own through the guided cell phone tours, you are sure to find something to catch your interest.
Photo Credit: top - Vincent Escudero @ flickr, panda - Amanda Galiano @ flickr
Tags: animals, Aquarium, Audobon, Dallas, endangered, IMAX, Metrozoo, Miami, National Zoo, species, Wings of Asia, ZooRelated Stories
POSTED IN: Outdoors, Things to See in DC, Things to See in Florida, Things to See in Louisiana, Things to See in Texas, Zoos, attractions
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