Brookfield Zoo is a well-known and large city zoo in the United States, but opinions about its quality vary among visitors and experts. This blog post will explore the strengths, weaknesses, and comparisons of Brookfield Zoo to help determine if it is a good zoo for zoo touring enthusiasts.
Strengths of Brookfield Zoo
Wolf Woods Exhibit
One of the standout exhibits at Brookfield Zoo is the Wolf Woods exhibit. This exhibit is highly praised for its naturalistic habitat, providing a large space with varied terrain, trees, and hiding opportunities for the wolves. Visitors can observe the wolves in a setting that closely resembles their natural environment, enhancing the overall experience.
Habitat Africa
Another impressive exhibit at Brookfield Zoo is Habitat Africa. The giraffe exhibit in this area is notable for its spacious and naturalistic environment, recreating an African woodland habitat. Visitors can observe the giraffes in a setting that closely resembles their natural habitat, providing a more immersive and educational experience.
Conservation Efforts
Brookfield Zoo is known for its commitment to animal welfare and conservation efforts. The zoo takes excellent care of its animals and is recognized for its contributions to various conservation programs. This aspect of the zoo is appreciated by visitors who value the importance of protecting and preserving wildlife.
Weaknesses of Brookfield Zoo
Limited Animal Variety
One of the main criticisms of Brookfield Zoo is the limited number of animals and exhibits. Some visitors have expressed disappointment with the lack of certain animals, such as elephants and bears, which are often expected in a large zoo.
Outdated Facilities
The Seven Seas Dolphin Area at Brookfield Zoo is considered outdated and in need of renovation. The exhibit features small tanks that do not provide adequate space for the dolphins, which is a concern for animal welfare and the overall visitor experience.
Tropic World
The Tropic World exhibit at Brookfield Zoo has been criticized for its artificial and cartoonish design, failing to recreate a naturalistic tropical rainforest environment. Additionally, the exhibit houses orangutans and gorillas in all-indoor areas with no access to the outside world, which is a major concern for animal welfare.
Comparison to Other Zoos
Ranking
Brookfield Zoo has been ranked as the 5th best zoo in the US by a USA Today poll, indicating that it is considered one of the top zoos in the country. This ranking suggests that the zoo has many positive attributes that make it a desirable destination for zoo enthusiasts.
Comparison to Lincoln Park Zoo
Some visitors prefer Brookfield Zoo over Lincoln Park Zoo due to its larger size, fewer crowds, and more varied animal exhibits. The larger size of Brookfield Zoo allows for a more expansive and diverse collection of animals, while the fewer crowds can provide a more enjoyable and less crowded experience for visitors.
Practical Information
Cost
The cost of visiting Brookfield Zoo varies depending on membership and individual ticket prices. A membership can be beneficial for frequent visitors, as it can break even after a few visits.
Timings and Hours
The zoo’s hours and timings may vary depending on the season and special events. It is recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Directory and Contact
Brookfield Zoo is located at 8400 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513. The phone number is 708-688-8000.
In conclusion, Brookfield Zoo has both strengths and weaknesses. While it excels in certain exhibits, such as Wolf Woods and Habitat Africa, and is recognized for its conservation efforts, it also faces challenges with limited animal variety, outdated facilities, and concerns about the design of the Tropic World exhibit. Ultimately, the decision to visit Brookfield Zoo will depend on the individual preferences and priorities of the zoo touring enthusiast.
Reference:
– Brookfield Zoo Official Website
– USA Today’s 10 Best Zoos in the US