Birch Aquarium at
Scripps
IO, UCSD
9500 Gilman
Drive
La Jolla, CA 92093-0207
Tel: (858) 534-4086 Fax:
(858) 534-7114
Set against a
breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean, the Birch Aquarium at Scripps is
home to more than 350 species of marine life found in waters from the cold
Pacific Northwest to the warm tropical reefs of the South Pacific. Forty-six
tanks range in size from a 70,000-gallon re-created kelp forest to small
nursery tanks. The aquarium also features a man-made tide pool that
stimulates an awareness in visitors of the fragility of San Diego's
intertidal environments. The Birch Aquarium provides ocean science
education, interprets research conducted at Scripps Institution of
Oceanography, and promotes ocean conservation. This coastal facility is also
home to the country's largest oceanographic museum. Hands-on exhibits
educate visitors about the ocean, earth sciences, and historical and current
oceanographic research. Other interesting exhibits include a simulated
submersible ride, and up-to-the-minute earthquake data center, and an "Ocean
Supermarket," where visitors can scan grocery items to learn what
ingredients come from the sea. Classes and programs for all ages provide
visitors opportunities for more in-depth interaction with marine life at the
aquarium and in the wild. The Birch Aquarium also hosts annual events that
educate the public on various marine animals, such as gray whales and
sharks.
Chaffee
Zoological Gardens of Fresno
894
West Belmont Ave
Fresno, CA 93728-2891
Tel: (559) 498-4692 Fax:
(559) 264-9226
Chaffee Zoological
Gardens is home to the world's first computerized Reptile House. Environment
chambers inside our Reptile House control temperature, humidity, and light
cycles to create an environment that is as close to each species' natural
habitat as possible.
Since the building
opened in 1979, the zoo has had considerable success in both maintaining and
breeding reptiles and amphibians in captivity. Reproductive research is
being conducted on several endangered species in an effort to enhance
captive propagation. The first captive reproduction of Rattleless
Rattlesnakes occurred here in 1980, and the Madagascar Ground Boas were
first born here in 1985.
The newest
addition to the zoo is the South American Tropical Rain Forest Exhibit. The
exhibit is a unique structure which covers 20,000 sq. ft. and is completely
enclosed by a fine mesh screen suspended from towering poles which soar
create a free flowing and natural environment. The rain forest contains
plants and animal species found primarily in South American regions. There
is a breathtaking array of flowering plants as well as vibrantly colored
birds that are flying freely for the visitor to observe and enjoy. The
exhibit is not only a beautiful addition to the zoo but is a source of
education and information on the destruction of the world's rain forests and
how the conservation of these very unique ecosystems is important to man and
his future.
Charles Paddock Zoo
9305 Pismo Avenue
Atascadero, CA 93422
Tel: (805) 461-7603 Fax:
(805) 461-7625
Discover over 100 animals in 5
park-like acres. Observe them up close and personal in naturalistic
habitats. Picnic area and refreshments are available. A nominal fee is
charged for admission.
The Zoo belongs to the City of
Atascadero, and is part of the Community Services Department. Virtually all
of the Zoo's funding goes into basic care and feeding of the animals which
include: Bengal Tiger, Red-Ruffed Lemur, Sumatran
Tiger, Asiatic Black Bear, White-Fronted Marmoset, Titi Monkey,
Two-Toed Sloth Blue, Gold Macaw, Salmon-Crested Cockatoo, Scarlet Macaw,
Capybara Prehensile-Tailed Porcupine, Serval Cat. African Grey Parrot,
Caribbean Flamingo, Greater Currassow, Masai Ostrich, American Alligator and
much more.
Coyote Point Museum for Environmental Education
1651 Coyote Point Drive
San Mateo, CA 94401-1097
Tel: (650)342-7755 Fax:
(650) 342-7853
Exotic
Breeding Feline Compound
Rosamond,
California
661-256-3793
Home to over 50 of the
world's most endangered felines, EFBC/FCC is recognized by state and federal
agencies as a zoo, wildlife museum, and licensed research facility. Funds
received are used for the care and support of the compound's animals and
long-term goals, which include a research clinic facility, a natural history
museum, and public education programs. The older cages are slowly being
replaced by large natural habitat enclosures that rival those found at the
best zoos.
Dedicated to the
preservation of endangered cats, the zoo acts as a modern-day ark in the
face of human overpopulation and mass extinction of animal species.
Cooperative breeding projects with other zoos for purebred animals
that are registered within the Species Survival Plan (SSP) for each cat
species. Cubs born at the FCC are often sent to other zoos for their
breeding programs. Open to the public Thursday to Tuesday, 10 am-4 pm
(closed Wednesdays and Christmas day). Admission is free, with donations
gratefully accepted. However, photographic privileges are reserved for
members only. Beginning in 2001, there will be an admission charge; at that
time, everyone can use cameras, and members will get in free. Unlike a zoo,
the FCC has no moats between you and the animals.
Visitors can get as close as 5 feet away from these beautiful (but
dangerous) cats. Some parts of the compound are not open to the public. Wear
comfortable walking shoes for your visit. Summer temperatures can reach 120
degrees Fahrenheit. In the winter, it sometimes snows. The cats are more
active in cooler weather, and at Twilight Tours.
From Los Angeles -Take the
5 or 405 north to where the 14 (Antelope Valley Freeway) begins, just south
of the Valencia area. Take the 14 north about 60 miles to Rosamond (which is
about 10 miles north of Lancaster). There is only 1 Rosamond exit, which is
also the exit for Edwards Air Force Base. Exit Rosamond Blvd. and go west
(left turn, from LA). Go 3.5 miles to Mojave-Tropico Road; there is a light
green EFBC sign on the corner. Turn right, go about 1 mile to Rhyolite, and
turn left. EFBC's driveway begins where Rhyolite ends.
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo
1300 Senter Road
San Jose, CA 95112
408-295-8383
Located in Kelley Park,
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo has been providing affordable family entertainment,
education and fun since 1961. The Park is a peaceful, creative and safe
place for children of all ages, with the main focus on "little ones" between
the ages of 2-10. There are creative play areas, children's rides, hand
puppet and marionette shows, special events, and birthday areas.
The Zoo is an
accredited institution that participates in conservation and propagation of
rare and endangered species while at the same time offering children the
opportunity to see wondrous animals such as the ruffed lemur or the pygmy
hippopotamus. It also gives hands on experience with many animals and the
education that is needed to secure the future of endangered species. The
petting zoo features llamas, goats, guinea pigs and miniature horses.
Lindsay Wildlife Museum
1931 First Avenue
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
510-935-1978
This wildlife rehabilitation and
educational center focuses on native California wildlife and natural
history. The museum exhibits live, non-releasable native wildlife in Walnut
Creek, California. Founded in 1955, the museum operates the oldest and one
of the largest wildlife rehabilitation hospitals in the United States,
treating more than 6,000 injured and orphaned wild animals each year.
Lindsay Wildlife Museum fosters a
living connection between people and wildlife in order to create a deeper
commitment to the welfare of the natural world. Call for hours and
admission prices.
The
Living Desert
47-900 Portola Avenue
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Tel: 760-346-5694
Discover The Living
Desert's 1,200 acres of blooming, scampering, flying, howling fun.
Native & exotic animals from the world's deserts, botanical gardens,
Wildlife Wonders animal shows and Hands-on Discovery Room in one
of the most successful zoological parks in the country.
Within its 1,200 acres
you will discover nearly 400 fascinating desert animals representing over
150 species including coyotes, bighorn sheep, oryx, zebras, cheetahs and
meerkats. There are lush botanical gardens representing 10 different desert
ecosystems and a journey to "Eagle Canyon," with its streams, mountain
lions, bobcats, Mexican wolves and golden eagles is a definite "must see."
Wilderness hiking trails, Native American exhibits and special events
attract over 275,000 visitors annually, making The Living Desert one of the
Coachella Valley's top tourist destinations.
Location:
Coachella Valley, just minutes from Palm Springs and Indio. From Hwy. 111 in
Palm Desert, turn south on Portola Ave., go 1 1/2 miles, follow signs to
main entrance.
Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific
Shoreline Drive at 100 Aquarium
Way
Long Beach, CA 90802
Tel: (562) 590-3100
The recently built aquarium features
nearly 50 living exhibits requiring more than a million gallons of
Pacific seawater. It is the only aquarium in the world to focus on the
Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy 550 species, 17 living habitats and
30 exhibits which take them on a journey throughout the Pacific Ocean's
three regions: Southern California/Baja, the Tropical Pacific and Northern
Pacific.
Los Angeles Zoo
5333 Zoo Dr
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Tel: (323) 644-6400 Fax:
(323) 662-9786
E-Mail:
webmaster@lazoo.org
The Los Angeles Zoo is located in the heart of the nation's
second-largest city. Each year 1.3 million visitors pass through the gates
to view a collection of 1,200 animals from around the world.
When the Los Angeles
Zoo opened in November 1966, 80,000 Angelenos attended the grand opening.
Several of the animals that were in the Zoo on opening day are with us
still: elephant Gita, alligator Methuselah, Indian rhino Herman. The L.A.
Zoo was the first major zoo in the United States to bar visitors from
feeding the animals.
Today the Zoo
is optimistic about new exhibits that will provide better living conditions
for the varied and magnificent animals that live here, and provide a more
interesting experience for visitors. The Zoo continues to participate in
conservation programs to preserve native habitats and ensure that animals
can continue to live in the wild. All over the Zoo there is a spirit of
optimism about the future as we look ahead to being one of the best zoos in
the nation, and a zoo that the people of Los Angeles can truly be proud of.
Micke Grove Zoo
11793 N Micke Grove Road
Lodi, CA 95240-9499
Tel: 209-953-8840
Micke Grove Zoo is a five-acre AZA
accredited Zoo with mammals, birds, reptiles, and invertebrates. Micke Grove
Park also features a Japanese Garden, San Joaquin County Historical Museum,
Rides, and picnic areas in a beautiful oak grove setting.
Location: Micke Grove Zoo is located
between Stockton and Lodi, California, off I-5 or Highway 99 @ 11793 N.
Micke Grove Road Lodi, CA 95240
Monterey Bay Aquarium
886 Cannery Row
Monterey, CA 93940
Tel: (831) 648-4800 Fax:
(831) 648-4810
Every day, our actions affect the marine
world. And changes there can have profound effects on our daily lives.
The aquarium tells the
stories of life in the bay in order to stimulate a sense of stewardship
towards the bay and the oceans beyond. These are things we care deeply
about. We encourage you to get involved in marine conservation issues. It's
up to each of us to work to ensure that tuna continue their wondrous
journeys, that the oceans remain healthy and full of life. The future of our
planet--our future--depends on it.
Our mission is
to stimulate interest, increase knowledge and promote stewardship of
Monterey Bay and the world's ocean environment. In doing so, we adhere to
principles of environmental responsibility in our own operations, and have
adopted policies to put these principles into practice. We endeavor to
maintain high standards that can serve as a model for other businesses.
Oakland Zoo
9777 Golf
Links Road
Oakland, CA 94605
510-632-9525
The Oakland Zoo is
home to over 375 animals from 125 different species living in lush,
naturalistic settings. The collection is organized in biomes, geographic
regions that represent the ecosystem of that area. From Africa, to Asia, to
Australia, to future California 1820 Region.
For a fun-filled view of the Zoo, take
a ride on the new "C.P. Huntington" miniature train, a two-thirds size
replica of the Civil War-era locomotive. Then soar high over the hills on
the Sky Ride to view American bison and tule elk grazing below on the "North
American Range". This 15 minute chair lift ride also offers a panoramic view
of the San Francisco Bay. Fun continues with a ride on the old-fashioned
carousel and other children's rides in The Rides Area. Call for hours
and admission prices.
Sacramento
Zoo
3930 West Land Park Drive
Sacramento, CA 95822-1123
Information: 916-264-5888
Two new female Grevy's zebras,
Red Panda Forest with Maggie, Ashia and Huan-Huan, three Himalayan monal
pheasants, a new baby bongo, Mi-Shan, the one-year-old female snow leopard
and beautiful flamingos are but a few of the colorful animals and birds you
will see.
Safari
West Wildlife Preserve
3115 Porter Creek Road
Santa Rosa CA 95404
707-579-2551
Safari West Wildlife Preserve
is nestled on 400 acres in the heart of California's wine country in Santa
Rosa. Safari West is home for over 400 exotic mammals and offers lodging in
unique cabins shipped from Africa and re-assembled on the property.
San
Diego Wild Animal Park
15500 San Pasqual Valley Road
San Diego Zoo
Escondido, CA
92027-7017
Tel: (760) 747-8702 Fax:
(760) 746-7081
Located 32 miles northeast of the Zoo, the
Wild Animal Park is 20 times larger and an entirely different experience!
This 1,800-acre wildlife preserve was established in 1969 under the
directorship of Dr. Charles Schroeder. It opened to the public in 1972, and
allows visitors to view herds of exotic animals s they might occur in their
native homelands of Africa or Asia. The Wgasa Bush Line, a silent electronic
monorail, skirts the edge of the Savannah and offers five miles of
unobstructed views of elephants, antelope, rhinos, and giraffes. Soon to
open is Heart of Africa which will offer guests the opportunity to take a
walking safari for an even closer view.
San Diego Zoo
PO Box 120551
San Diego, CA 92112-0551
Tel: (619) 231-1515 Fax:
(619) 231-0249
The 100-acre Zoo was founded in 1916, by a
colorful and extremely enterprising local physician, Dr. Harry Wegeforth. He
gathered a collection of 50 animals from various local menageries and hired
a single keeper named Army, "who had one arm but it was all he needed."
Today the Zoo cares for 3,800 animals (800 different species) and employs
115 individuals to care for them. The total staff numbers more than 1,000.
The Zoo has
opened several new natural habitats in recent years: Tiger River, Sun Bear
Forest, Scripps Aviary, Gorilla Tropics, Pygmy Chimpanzees, Raptors,
Australasian Birds, Hippo Beach, and Polar Bear Plunge. And of course you'll
want to see the two important visitors that now reside at the Panda Research
Station.
San Francisco Zoological Gardens
1 Zoo Road
San Francisco, CA 94132
Tel: 415-753-7080 Tel: 415-753-7161
The major zoological
park in Northern California and one of the Bay Area's most popular cultural
and recreational attractions, the San Francisco Zoo is home to over 250
species of exotic and domestic mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and
invertebrates.
The focus of
the San Francisco Zoo is wildlife conservation. Through our naturalistic
exhibits, field conservation projects, and educational programs, we are
building a center for conservation and education. Come
visit us anytime, 365 days a year.
Santa Ana Zoo
1801 E. Chestnut Avenue
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Tel: 714-836-4000
Today the Santa Ana Zoo
at Prentice Park is a nationally accredited public zoological garden
occupying a unique urban site in the heart of Orange County. Situated on
approximately 20 acres, it hosts more than 270,000 people annually.
Over the years the
zoo's original acreage increased to its present size. The zoo has developed
a 10-phase, 10-year master plan that will transform the zoo into an intimate
urban oasis for animals and people. It will feature South American plants
and wildlife; the only zoo in the country to focus exclusively on this
region.
The Santa Ana
Zoo at Prentice Park is committed to providing recreation and education
while bringing the message of conservation to the zoo's many visitors. It is
a place to have fun, a place to learn, and a place that can be enjoyed by
people of all ages every day of the year.
Santa
Barbara Zoological Gardens
500 Ninos Drive
Santa Barbara, CA 93103-3798
Tel: 805-962-5339
The beginning was modest
with only a few animals - a llama, two sheep, a goat, a turkey and a pair of
spider monkeys - but the potential was there in an incredibly beautiful
location. The Zoo grew, always emphasizing quality rather than quantity, and
soon became one of the most popular attractions in the City of Santa
Barbara. Building the Zoo was a community effort. Masses of volunteers
dedicated their time while local businesses contributed materials and
supplies for everything from pathways to paperwork. Many of the original
volunteers and contributors are still very much involved with the Zoo today.
Also during the
decade of the 70's, landscaping material, much of it donated, continued to
be added to the park and zoo areas. Beautiful gardens were emerging. The Zoo
took on a tropical atmosphere, highlighting some magnificent specimen
plantings, especially palm trees. The entire lower end of the park had been
marshy and only one lone eucalyptus tree grew there when the Zoo was opened.
Now visitors wind their way through coral trees, jacarandas, silk trees,
bananas and giant bird of paradise. Plantings in and around exhibits
compliment the animals.
SeaWorld San Diego
500 Sea World Drive
San Diego, CA 92109-7904
Tel: (619) 222-6363
SeaWorld®
San
Diego
ranks in the top 10 theme parks in California. SeaWorld not only features
thrill rides and amusements, it also offers many family fun shows with sea
mammals, oceanic creatures and lots of things for kids to enjoy in a
kid-friendly, vacation destination theme park in San Diego, California.
SeaWorld sits next to Mission Bay with many attractions, shops and
restaurants overlooking Mission Bay. The setting is spectacular for this
family fun attraction.
Sequoia Park Zoo
531 K Street
Eureka, CA 95501-1165
Tel: 707-441-4203
In operation since 1907,
The Sequoia Park Zoo has long been considered one of the most important
cultural facilities in the area. The Zoo is committed to providing a high
quality facility that offers not only the care of a variety of animals, but
also an opportunity for visitors to experience a greater appreciation of the
value and diversity of our planet's life forms.
The Zoo serves
as a valuable resource for more than ten counties located in the Shasta
Cascade and North Coast Regions of California. Although the Zoo is small in
relation to most facilities of this nature, it is the only municipal
zoological gardens on the Pacific Coast between San Francisco and Portland.
As such, it serves a wide and diverse population. Sequoia Park Zoo provides
a facility that would otherwise not be available to more than a half million
people. The Zoo's goals include conservation, education and recreation.
Six Flags Marine World
2001 Marine
World Parkway
Vallejo, CA 94589
Tel: 707-644-4000
An amusement park with thrill rides, it
is billed as the only theme park with a marine section and a zoo,
complete with bengal tigers.
Steinhart
Aquarium
Golden Gate Park
San Francisco, CA 94118-4599
Tel: 415-750-7247
Imagine 600 different
kinds of fish from the size of a child's pinkie to as large as five feet,
from as close as our own San Francisco Bay to as far away as the Amazon.
Nowhere else can you see such diversity than at the California Academy of
Sciences' Steinhart Aquarium. You may see garden eels peep up out of their
sand hideouts, a freshwater polka-dotted stingray soar through the water, or
a pack of hungry piranhas circle in wait of mealtime. And lets not forget
what else sets the Steinhart Aquarium apart — lizards scurrying on rocks,
snakes coiling around branches, and alligators lounging in the swamp.
