Birmingham Zoo, Wildlife conservation park in Birmingham, Alabama
Birmingham Zoo is a wildlife conservation park spanning 122 acres with more than 800 animals representing about 200 species from six continents. The animals live in habitats designed to resemble their natural environments, creating an authentic experience for visitors walking through the grounds.
The zoo started in 1955 as a small menagerie in Lane Park and gradually grew into an accredited facility over the decades. This growth reflects how the institution improved its standards and became recognized by major wildlife organizations.
The zoo helps visitors learn about wildlife protection and the connections between animals and people through direct observation in realistic settings. You'll see how the animals live in spaces designed to match their natural homes, which deepens your understanding of their behavior.
The zoo is open Wednesday through Sunday and located on Cahaba Road, though it requires a short drive to reach from downtown. Plan for several hours and bring water and sun protection, as you'll spend most of your time outdoors walking the grounds.
The zoo runs breeding programs for endangered animals like red pandas, orangutans, and African elephants that are threatened in the wild. Visitors get to see firsthand animals that are part of global efforts to prevent extinction and restore populations.
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