San Francisco Zoo Overview:
Every zoo is a difficult balance between an ideal where no wild animal need be kept captive, and the least palatable scenario which is some of the zoos, domestic and international, of my youth -- where unsuitable conditions and enclosures were all too common.
I'm always cognizant of the efforts modern zoos make with respect to creating more viable natural habitat, taking into account the larger philosophical issues attached to zoos in general.
The San Francisco Zoo has made dramatic updates in a number of animal areas as suggested below, in keeping with a more modern ethic about captive animals and conservation.
San Francisco Zoo - The Great News:
The San Francisco Zoo has been upgrading elements of its 'new zoo' -- providing larger, more natural spaces for some of its animals. The new African Savanna (2004), for instance, is three acres of habitat for mixed species such as giraffes, crowned cranes, ostriches and zebras.
The Lemur Forest is an example of how a zoo habitat can more closely resemble what animals would experience in their natural environment.
The San Francisco Zoo has a dedicated staff, involved in ongoing conservation efforts which include breeding programs, research and education.
The Not So Great News:
Some of the animals spaces, such as the cement exhibits, are still outdated -- lacking the natural habitat and shelter/privacy (for the animals) of the newer facilities. The disparity between the new zoo exhibits and the old is dramatic -- a sad distinction and an unfortunate situation for the animals still confined to those areas.
The steam train ride for children is, from my perspective, too loud as it passes by the bear enclosures -- not in keeping with the natural habitat one would hope for the animals in this part of the zoo.
San Francisco Zoo - Animals and Exhibits:
African Savanna | Australian Walkabout | Gorilla Preserve | Hearst Grizzly Gulch | Lion House | Lipman Family Lemur Forest | Meerkats & Prairie Dog Exhibit | Penguin Island
San Francisco Children's Zoo & Activities:
The San Francisco Children's Zoo is six acres of space, educational facilities and children's activities. The new Meerkat and Prairie Dog exhibit opened as part of the Children's Zoo in 2000, and offers a view to the animals and their burrows.
The expanded family farm includes up-close experience with rare domestic animals, including a pair of alpaca and an American cream draft horse. Children can observe eggs incubating at the Hatchery, visit the Insect Zoo, walk the Nature Trail or attend programs at the Koret Animal Resource Center.
Animal Feedings at the Zoo:
* Posted in 2008 - check zoo website for changes or additions
The San Francisco Zoo animal feedings take place throughout the week.
- The Grizzly Bear Feeding is at 11am at Grizzly Gulch.
- Chimpanzee Behavior Enrichment program is at 11:30a
- Penguin Feeding is at 2:30p
- Giraffe Feeding is at 4p
The zoo also has special children's programming in the summer.
The San Francisco Zoo has a complete guide to additional activities for children and a monthly calendar of ongoing events.
Visiting the San Francisco Zoo - Hours:
- Zoo is open daily, from 10a to 5p. In 2008, the zoo will be closed on Christmas Day, December 25. The Children's Zoo hours are 10:30a to 4:30p. Always check in advance for any additions or changes to the schedule.
Zoo Admission Fees *:
- Adults (15-64) - $15
- Seniors (65+) - $12
- Children (4 to 14) - $9
- Children (3 and under) - Free
- San Francisco residents with ID are $12 ($7.50 for seniors, $5.50 for children (4 to 14)
* 2008 - Fees are subject to change. Check with the San Francisco Zoo for current admission prices
Directions to San Francisco Zoo:
The San Francisco Zoo is on the Great Highway, near Sloat Boulevard.
If you're new to San Francisco and need help navigating the public transit system: