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# Meet Our Animals

Discover over 3,000 animals representing 400+ species from around the world

3,000+ Animals
400+ Species
50+ Endangered Species
7 Habitat Zones
Featured Exhibit
NEW EXHIBIT
Mammals • African Savanna

## African Elephant Habitat

Our stunning new 5-acre elephant sanctuary is home to a multigenerational family of African elephants. This state-of-the-art habitat features natural terrain, a watering hole, and enrichment activities that promote natural behaviors.

Meet the Family 2 adults, 1 juvenile, 1 calf
Keeper Talks Daily at 10 AM & 2 PM
Conservation Status Endangered

### Quick Facts

- Largest land animals on Earth, weighing up to 14,000 lbs
- Can drink up to 50 gallons of water per day
- Live in matriarchal family groups led by the oldest female
- Use their trunks to communicate through touch and smell

## Mammals

From majestic big cats to playful primates, discover the diversity of mammalian life

Vulnerable
Big Cats

### African Lion

The "King of the Jungle" known for its majestic mane and powerful roar.

African Savanna
Vulnerable
Savanna Animals

### Masai Giraffe

The world's tallest animal with distinctive jagged spot patterns.

African Savanna
Endangered
Asian Wildlife

### Red Panda

Adorable bamboo-eating mammals native to the Himalayan forests.

Asian Forest
Critically Endangered
Primates

### Western Lowland Gorilla

Our closest relatives, known for their intelligence and family bonds.

Primate Paradise
Endangered
Big Cats

### Bengal Tiger

Powerful striped predators native to the forests of South Asia.

Asian Forest
Critically Endangered
Primates

### Bornean Orangutan

Highly intelligent great apes known for their red hair and tree-dwelling lifestyle.

Primate Paradise
Vulnerable
Arctic Animals

### Polar Bear

Magnificent Arctic predators adapted to life in extreme cold.

Arctic Adventure
Vulnerable
Big Cats

### Cheetah

The world's fastest land animal, capable of 70 mph sprints.

African Savanna

## Birds

Soar through our aviaries and discover colorful species from tropical rainforests to arctic tundras

Parrots

### Scarlet Macaw

Brilliantly colored parrots known for their intelligence and long lifespan.

Tropical Aviary
Birds of Prey

### Bald Eagle

America's national bird, a powerful raptor and conservation success story.

Raptor Ridge
Wading Birds

### Caribbean Flamingo

Elegant pink birds that get their color from their shrimp-rich diet.

Flamingo Lagoon
Endangered
Seabirds

### African Penguin

Charismatic flightless birds from the coasts of South Africa.

Penguin Coast

## Reptiles & Amphibians

Explore the fascinating world of cold-blooded creatures in our Reptile House

Endangered
Lizards

### Komodo Dragon

The world's largest lizard, native to Indonesian islands.

Reptile House
Snakes

### Green Anaconda

The heaviest snake in the world, an apex predator of South American waters.

Amazon Rainforest
Vulnerable
Tortoises

### Galapagos Tortoise

Ancient giants that can live over 100 years and weigh 400+ pounds.

Tortoise Trail
Vulnerable
Crocodilians

### American Crocodile

Prehistoric predators that have survived for millions of years.

Swamp Trail

## Aquatic Life

Dive into our Ocean Discovery center and meet incredible marine animals

Endangered
Marine Reptiles

### Green Sea Turtle

Graceful ocean wanderers that travel thousands of miles during migration.

Ocean Discovery
Marine Mammals

### California Sea Lion

Playful pinnipeds known for their intelligence and acrobatic displays.

Sea Lion Cove
Invertebrates

### Moon Jellyfish

Ethereal ocean drifters with translucent bodies that pulse through the water.

Jellyfish Gallery
Vulnerable
Sharks

### Sand Tiger Shark

Impressive but docile sharks with rows of jagged teeth.

Shark Tunnel

## Conservation Status Guide

Understanding IUCN Red List categories

Critically Endangered (CR) species face an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. These species have experienced severe population declines and face ongoing threats. At Metro Zoo, we participate in Species Survival Plans (SSPs) for many critically endangered species including Western Lowland Gorillas and Bornean Orangutans.

Endangered (EN) species face a very high risk of extinction in the wild. These populations have declined significantly but may still recover with conservation efforts. Examples at Metro Zoo include African Elephants, Red Pandas, and Green Sea Turtles.

Vulnerable (VU) species face a high risk of extinction in the wild. While not as immediately threatened, these species require monitoring and conservation action. Lions, Giraffes, and Polar Bears are examples of vulnerable species at Metro Zoo.

Metro Zoo contributes to conservation through multiple initiatives:

- Species Survival Plans (SSPs) - Managed breeding programs for endangered species
- Field Conservation - Funding research and habitat protection in the wild
- Education Programs - Teaching visitors about conservation challenges and solutions
- Sustainable Operations - Reducing our environmental footprint through green practices

Every ticket purchased supports these vital conservation efforts. Learn more about our conservation work.

## Ready to Meet Our Animals?

Plan your visit today and experience wildlife up close

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