The San Diego Zoo is a world-renowned attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to witness the feeding times of various animal species. Whether you’re a seasoned zoo enthusiast or a first-time visitor, understanding the feeding schedules can enhance your overall experience and allow you to plan your visit accordingly.
Feeding Times at the San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is home to a diverse array of animals, each with its own unique feeding requirements. The feeding times for these animals are carefully scheduled to ensure their well-being and provide visitors with the opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures in action.
Herbivores
- Giraffes: The San Diego Zoo no longer offers giraffe feeding experiences, but visitors can still observe these majestic animals from various vantage points within the zoo, such as the African Plains’ Kijamii Overlook, the Africa Tram, or during a Wildlife Safari, Cart Safari, or Ultimate Safari.
- Elephants: The elephants at the San Diego Zoo are typically fed twice a day, with their main feeding times being in the morning and afternoon.
- Zebras: The zebras at the San Diego Zoo are also fed twice a day, with their feeding times typically coinciding with the elephant feeding schedule.
Carnivores
- Lions: The lions at the San Diego Zoo are fed once a day, usually in the late afternoon or early evening.
- Tigers: The tigers at the San Diego Zoo are also fed once a day, with their feeding times typically scheduled in the late afternoon or early evening.
- Polar Bears: The polar bears at the San Diego Zoo are fed twice a day, with their main feeding times being in the morning and afternoon.
Primates
- Gorillas: The gorillas at the San Diego Zoo are fed multiple times throughout the day, with their main feeding times being in the morning and afternoon.
- Orangutans: The orangutans at the San Diego Zoo are also fed multiple times a day, with their feeding times typically scheduled in the morning and afternoon.
It’s important to note that the feeding times for these animals may vary depending on various factors, such as the animals’ health, behavior, and the zoo’s operational schedule. Visitors are encouraged to check the San Diego Zoo’s website or inquire with staff members for the most up-to-date information on feeding times.
Special Feeding Experiences at the San Diego Zoo
In addition to the regular feeding schedules, the San Diego Zoo also offers special feeding experiences that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the animals.
Animals in Action Experience
The Animals in Action Experience is a program that allows visitors to meet animals up close, see exotic cats climb and jump, and learn about wildlife ambassadors from expert wildlife behavior specialists. This experience costs $95 per person and is subject to change based on the animals’ health and safety needs.
Giraffe Feeding (Discontinued)
Unfortunately, the San Diego Zoo no longer offers the opportunity to feed the giraffes. The page dedicated to this experience is no longer available on the zoo’s website. However, visitors can still admire the giraffes from various locations within the zoo.
San Diego Zoo Membership Benefits
Becoming a member of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance can provide visitors with a range of benefits, including discounts on food and merchandise, complimentary general parking, and donor club entrance for easier access to the zoo and safari park. Members also receive Wild Perks℠ discounts, which can be used for 50% off discount admission coupons and complimentary guest passes.
Conclusion
The San Diego Zoo is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife and animal conservation. By understanding the feeding times and special experiences available, visitors can plan their visit to maximize their opportunities to observe these fascinating creatures in action. Whether you’re interested in the regular feeding schedules or the special feeding experiences, the San Diego Zoo has something to offer for every zoo enthusiast.