Adelaide Zoo is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It covers an area of approximately 8 hectares and provides a beautiful and engaging environment for animal lovers of all ages.
Adelaide Zoo is Australia’s second oldest zoo (after Melbourne Zoo), and like other leading zoos in Australia, including Melbourne Zoo, Taronga Zoo, and Perth Zoo it is operated on a non-profit basis. It is located in the parklands just north of the city centre of Adelaide, South Australia. It is administered by the Royal Zoological Society of South Australia Incorporated (trading as Zoos SA) which is a full institutional member of the Zoo and Aquarium Association (ZAA) and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). and which also administers the Monarto Zoo near Murray Bridge.
Animals in Residence at Adelaide Zoo
One of the main attractions at Adelaide Zoo is the Giant Panda Exhibit, home to Wang Wang and Fu Ni, the only two giant pandas in the Southern Hemisphere. Visitors can observe these charismatic animals in a specially designed enclosure and learn about their conservation status and the efforts being made to protect them.
The zoo is also known for its diverse range of animals from around the world. You can encounter fascinating creatures such as lions, tigers, giraffes, orangutans, meerkats, lemurs, and a variety of reptiles and birds.
There is an Australian Native Animal section. It is called the “Conservation Station: Australian Native Animals.” This section of the zoo showcases a variety of native Australian mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish. The Conservation Station aims to educate visitors about the importance of conserving and protecting Australia’s unique wildlife.
In addition to the animal exhibits, Adelaide Zoo offers various interactive experiences and presentations. You can join daily keeper talks, where knowledgeable staff share insights about the animals’ behaviors, conservation efforts, and interesting facts. These talks provide a deeper understanding of the species and their habitats.
If you’re interested in getting up close with some of the animals, you can book special encounters such as the “Meet the Primates” experience, where you can interact with lemurs, or the “Giant Panda Insights” tour, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at the panda exhibit.
Conservation Foremost
The zoo is committed to conservation and education. It participates in breeding programs for endangered species and supports various local and international conservation initiatives. Visitors can learn about these efforts and how they can contribute to wildlife conservation.
Adelaide Zoo is family-friendly and offers amenities such as cafes, picnic areas, and playgrounds for children to enjoy. There are also wheelchair-accessible facilities and services to ensure an inclusive experience for all visitors.
It’s worth noting that Adelaide Zoo is a not-for-profit organization, and the funds generated through ticket sales and donations go towards animal welfare, conservation projects, and ongoing improvements to the zoo’s facilities.
Australian Native Animals at the Zoo
- Koala: Koalas are iconic Australian marsupials known for their cuddly appearance and love for eucalyptus leaves.
- Kangaroo: Kangaroos are large marsupials that are native to Australia. They are known for their powerful hind legs and ability to hop.
- Emu: Emus are flightless birds native to Australia. They are the second-largest bird species in the world and have a distinctive appearance.
- Tasmanian Devil: Tasmanian Devils are carnivorous marsupials found in the wild only in Tasmania. They have a stocky build and are known for their aggressive behavior.
- Wombat: Wombats are sturdy marsupials that are native to Australia. They have a stocky build, short legs, and are known for their burrowing abilities.
- Platypus: Platypuses are unique egg-laying mammals found in Australia. They have a duck-billed snout, webbed feet, and a beaver-like tail.
- Echidna: Echidnas, also known as spiny anteaters, are egg-laying mammals found in Australia. They have spiky spines and a long snout.
- Cockatoo: Cockatoos are large parrots native to Australia. They are known for their distinctive crests and ability to mimic human speech.
- Kookaburra: Kookaburras are native Australian birds known for their loud, laughing call. They are often referred to as the “laughing kookaburra.”
- Wallaby: Wallabies are small to medium-sized marsupials that are closely related to kangaroos. They are found throughout Australia
Remember to check the official website of Adelaide Zoo for the latest information on opening hours, special events, and ticket prices.
Adelaide Zoo is open from 9:30am – 5pm every day of the year, including Christmas and all public holidays.
Please note the opening times for the following areas:
- Panda Habitat 9:45am – 4:45pm
- Zoo Shop 9:30am – 5pm
- Panda Shop 11am-3pm (11am-4pm during school holidays and on weekends)
- Reptile House 10am – 4:30pm (4:45pm weekends and public holidays)
- Nocturnal House 10am – 4:30pm (4:45pm weekends and public holidays)
- Walk-through Rainforest & Wetlands Aviary 9:30am – 4:30pm (4:45pm weekends and public holidays)
- Walk-through South East Asian Aviary is currently CLOSED for redevelopment
- Envirodome 10am – 4:30pm (4:45pm weekends and public holidays)
Please note the above list is indicative only and the mix of species may change from time to time.
