Vulnerable
Big Cats
African Lion
The "King of the Jungle" known for its majestic mane and powerful roar.
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
Vulnerable
Savanna Animals
Masai Giraffe
The world's tallest animal with distinctive jagged spot patterns.
Endangered
Asian Wildlife
Red Panda
Adorable bamboo-eating mammals native to the Himalayan forests.
Critically Endangered
Primates
Western Lowland Gorilla
Our closest relatives, known for their intelligence and family bonds.
Endangered
Big Cats
Bengal Tiger
Powerful striped predators native to the forests of South Asia.
Critically Endangered
Primates
Bornean Orangutan
Highly intelligent great apes known for their red hair and tree-dwelling lifestyle.
Vulnerable
Arctic Animals
Polar Bear
Magnificent Arctic predators adapted to life in extreme cold.
Vulnerable
Big Cats
Cheetah
The world's fastest land animal, capable of 70 mph sprints.
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.
Birds of Prey
Bald Eagle
America's national bird, a powerful raptor and conservation success story.
Wading Birds
Caribbean Flamingo
Elegant pink birds that get their color from their shrimp-rich diet.
Endangered
Seabirds
African Penguin
Charismatic flightless birds from the coasts of South Africa.
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.
Snakes
Green Anaconda
The heaviest snake in the world, an apex predator of South American waters.
Vulnerable
Tortoises
Galapagos Tortoise
Ancient giants that can live over 100 years and weigh 400+ pounds.
Vulnerable
Crocodilians
American Crocodile
Prehistoric predators that have survived for millions of years.
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.
Marine Mammals
California Sea Lion
Playful pinnipeds known for their intelligence and acrobatic displays.
Invertebrates
Moon Jellyfish
Ethereal ocean drifters with translucent bodies that pulse through the water.
Vulnerable
Sharks
Sand Tiger Shark
Impressive but docile sharks with rows of jagged teeth.
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