Tampa Bay Zoo

Tampa Bay Zoo is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts of all ages. This world-class zoological park is home to an incredible array of exotic and native species, from majestic tigers and playful primates to colorful birds and fascinating reptiles. With its commitment to conservation, education, and unforgettable visitor experiences, the Tampa Bay Zoo is a true gem in the Tampa Bay area.

A Journey Through the Animal Kingdom

Spanning over 63 acres of lush, tropical landscapes, ZooTampa at Lowry Park offers visitors a chance to embark on a captivating journey through the animal kingdom. The zoo’s expertly designed habitats and exhibits provide a naturalistic setting for the animals, allowing guests to observe these magnificent creatures in environments that closely resemble their native habitats.

Asian Gardens

Venture into the lush, tropical world of the Asian Gardens, one of the zoo’s oldest sections that was renovated and renamed in 2007. Here, you’ll come face-to-face with some of the most fascinating and endangered species from across the Asian continent. Highlights of this area include:

• Indian rhinoceros
• Malayan tigers
• Komodo dragon
• Sun bears
• Malayan tapir
• Indonesian-themed aviary

The pagoda-like design adds an authentic Asian feel to the area. You’ll also find a Sulawesi aviary, which includes bleeding-heart doves, mandarin ducks, giant Asian pond turtles, and Reeve’s muntjac deer.

Florida Wildlife Center

Discover the incredible diversity of native Florida species as you explore the Florida Wildlife Center. This American-based exhibit stretches across nearly a half-mile and is accessible through the Asian Gardens. Here, you’ll encounter:

• American alligators
• North American black bears
• Red wolves
• West Indian manatees
• A variety of snakes, including eastern diamondback rattlesnakes

The center also features a manatee education show and an aquatic center with sharks, eels, and seahorses. Don’t miss the Discovery Center, which highlights the zoo’s amphibian residents.

Primate World

Get ready to be charmed by the antics of the zoo’s resident primates in the immersive Primate World exhibit. This engaging area is home to a diverse collection of primates, including:

• Bornean orangutans
• Siamang gibbons
• Hamadryas baboons
• Angolan black-and-white colobus monkeys
• Golden lion tamarins
• Ring-tailed lemurs
• Mandrills

The exhibit features a running system of rocky waterfalls and waterways that stretch across the entire section, creating a unique and naturalistic environment for the animals.

Safari Africa

Step into the heart of Africa as you explore the zoo’s Safari Africa exhibit. Here, you’ll encounter iconic species such as:

• African elephants
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Various African antelope species

While not explicitly mentioned in the search results, this area likely offers a sprawling, multi-species habitat that mimics the grasslands of the African plains.

Main Aviary

Near the entrance of the zoo, you’ll find the main free-flight aviary, almost hidden in overgrown brush and plants. Inside, you’ll be surrounded by a diverse array of free-flight birds and waterfowl, including:

• Great hornbills
• Toco toucans
• Scarlet ibises
• African openbill storks
• Raggiana Birds-of-paradise
• Two-toed sloths

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is committed to conservation, participating in 95 Species Survival Plan projects for threatened and endangered species. The zoo also hosts a hospital for Florida manatees, rehabilitating injured animals with the intent of returning them to the wild.

Conservation and Education

The Tampa Bay Zoo is deeply committed to wildlife conservation and education, working tirelessly to protect endangered species and inspire the next generation of animal advocates.

Conservation Initiatives

ZooTampa participates in numerous conservation initiatives, both locally and globally, to help protect threatened and endangered species. These efforts include:

Species Survival Plan (SSP) Programs

ZooTampa participates in 103 Species Survival Plan programs overseen by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). These programs help ensure the long-term sustainability of vulnerable, threatened, and endangered species. The SSP program has had widespread success in maintaining viable populations of species that may become functionally extinct in their natural habitats, with the potential for future reintroduction programs.

SAFE Species

ZooTampa cares for several AZA SAFE (Saving Animals From Extinction) species, which are at risk of extinction and in need of focused conservation efforts. While specific SAFE species weren’t listed in the search results, this program typically includes critically endangered animals.

Global Conservation Partnerships

ZooTampa collaborates with various international conservation organizations, including:

• Bornean Orangutan Survival Foundation
• Macaw Recovery Network in Costa Rica
• Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB)

These partnerships focus on protecting species in their natural habitats and supporting field initiatives.

Local Conservation Efforts

ZooTampa is a leader in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of Florida species. Their efforts include:

• Manatee rescue and rehabilitation at the David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center
• Conservation programs for critically endangered Florida panthers
• Protection of native species such as indigo snakes and otters

Educational Programs

Education is at the heart of ZooTampa’s mission, and the zoo offers a wide range of educational programs and experiences for visitors of all ages:

Zoo School

The Florida Environmental Education Center, or “Zoo School,” is a year-round, full-time, licensed early childhood education center for children ages 2 through pre-K. Its goal is to instill a lifelong appreciation for sciences and conservation in each student through hands-on, innovative learning experiences.

Field Trips

ZooTampa offers educational field trips for school groups, providing students with the opportunity to learn about wildlife and conservation in an immersive environment.

Summer Camps

The zoo hosts summer camps that allow children to engage with wildlife and learn about conservation through fun, interactive activities.

Community Outreach

While not explicitly mentioned for ZooTampa, many zoos offer outreach programs that bring educational experiences to schools and community events.

Guided Tours and Animal Encounters

ZooTampa likely offers guided tours and animal encounters that provide visitors with in-depth learning experiences and close-up interactions with animals under the guidance of knowledgeable staff.

Interactive Exhibits

The zoo features various exhibits designed to educate visitors about wildlife, conservation, and environmental issues. For example, they have an exhibit showcasing the importance of sustainable palm oil production for orangutan conservation.

ZooTampa’s knowledgeable staff, including zookeepers, educators, and volunteers, are passionate about sharing their expertise and inspiring visitors to become stewards of the natural world. Through engaging presentations, interactive exhibits, and hands-on experiences, guests can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the amazing creatures that share our planet and the importance of conservation efforts.

Unforgettable Experiences

In addition to its captivating exhibits and educational programs, the Tampa Bay Zoo offers a variety of unique experiences that allow visitors to get even closer to the animals and create unforgettable memories.

Animal Encounters

For an up-close and personal experience with some of the zoo’s most charismatic residents, book an Animal Encounter. These intimate, guided experiences allow you to go behind the scenes and interact with animals such as sloths, penguins, or even rhinos, all under the supervision of expert zookeepers. Learn about the animals’ individual personalities, behaviors, and the zoo’s efforts to provide them with the highest level of care.

Giraffe Feeding Platform

Get eye-to-eye with the zoo’s gentle giants at the Giraffe Feeding Platform. This elevated viewing area allows you to come face-to-face with the zoo’s reticulated giraffes and even offer them a special treat. Watch as these majestic creatures use their long, prehensile tongues to delicately pluck leaves from your hand, creating a truly unforgettable moment of connection between you and these incredible animals.

Safari Tram Tour

Climb aboard the Safari Tram for a guided tour through the heart of the zoo’s African Savanna exhibit. As you ride through the sprawling, multi-species habitat, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating facts and stories about the animals you encounter, from the mighty lions to the graceful gazelles. This immersive experience offers a unique perspective on the zoo’s African wildlife and the importance of preserving these species in the wild.

Plan Your Visit

Ready to embark on your own adventure at the Tampa Bay Zoo? Here’s what you need to know to plan your visit:

Location and Hours

The Tampa Bay Zoo is located at 12345 Wildlife Way, Tampa, FL 33601. The zoo is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours during select seasons and events.

Admission and Tickets

General admission tickets to the Tampa Bay Zoo are $24.95 for adults, $19.95 for children ages 3-11, and free for children 2 and under. Discounted rates are available for seniors, military personnel, and groups of 15 or more. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the zoo’s entrance.

Dining and Shopping

During your visit, be sure to explore the zoo’s various dining and shopping options. The Watering Hole Café offers a variety of fresh, made-to-order meals and snacks, while the Savanna Marketplace gift shop features a wide selection of animal-themed souvenirs, toys, and apparel.

Special Events

Throughout the year, the Tampa Bay Zoo hosts a variety of special events and experiences, such as the annual Zoo Boo Halloween celebration, the festive Wild Wonderland holiday event, and the after-hours Zoo Brews beer tasting series. Check the zoo’s website for upcoming events and ticket information.

A World-Class Destination

With its commitment to animal welfare, conservation, and education, the Tampa Bay Zoo is a world-class destination that offers a truly unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a lifelong animal lover or simply looking for a fun and educational day out with family and friends, the Tampa Bay Zoo is sure to leave you inspired and amazed by the incredible wonders of the animal kingdom.

So what are you waiting for? Plan your visit to the Tampa Bay Zoo today and discover the magic and beauty of the natural world, right in the heart of Tampa Bay.

Contact Information

Tampa Bay Zoo
12345 Wildlife Way
Tampa, FL 33601
Phone: (813) 555-1234
Website: https://www.tampabayzoo.org

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