The Houston Zoo’s South America’s Pantanal exhibit is a captivating 4.2-acre immersive habitat that transports visitors to the heart of the world’s largest tropical wetland. This remarkable exhibit showcases the diverse wildlife and ecosystem of the Pantanal region, offering an unparalleled opportunity to witness the wonders of this unique and fragile environment.
Animals to Discover
The South America’s Pantanal exhibit at the Houston Zoo is home to a diverse array of fascinating creatures, each playing a vital role in the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
| Animal | Description |
|---|---|
| Giant Anteaters | These nocturnal vegetarians are known for their distinctive appearance and play a crucial role in the ecosystem by dispersing seeds and browsing vegetation. |
| Tapirs | The Houston Zoo is actively involved in the Lowland Tapir Conservation Initiative, working to protect these unique animals and their habitats. Tapirs are essential for maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. |
| Jaguars | The exhibit features an overhead crossing that allows visitors to observe these majestic predators as they move between habitats. |
| Giant River Otters | Visitors can enjoy underwater views of these playful animals, which are an important part of the Pantanal ecosystem. |
| Capybaras | These large rodents are native to the Pantanal and can be seen in the exhibit’s grassland habitat. |
| Baird’s Tapirs | These tapirs are part of the exhibit’s diverse array of wildlife. |
| Greater Rheas | These large flightless birds are native to the Pantanal and can be seen in the exhibit. |
| Coscoroba Swans | These swans are part of the exhibit’s diverse array of wildlife. |
| Southern Crested Screamer Birds | These birds are native to the Pantanal and can be seen in the exhibit. |
Conservation Efforts
The Houston Zoo is deeply committed to the conservation of the Pantanal region and its inhabitants. The zoo is actively involved in several initiatives to protect the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem.
- Giant Armadillo Project: The Houston Zoo has partnered with this project to protect giant armadillos and their habitats. The zoo provides support and training for conservation professionals and has assisted in research and education programs.
- Lowland Tapir Conservation Initiative: The zoo is involved in this initiative to protect tapirs and their habitats.
- Giant Otter Conservation: The zoo supports conservation efforts for giant otters, including research, education, and training for local communities.
Immersive Experience
The South America’s Pantanal exhibit at the Houston Zoo is designed to provide visitors with an immersive and engaging experience, transporting them to the heart of the Pantanal region.
- Rustic Buildings: The exhibit features rustic buildings that evoke the eco-lodges found in the Northern Pantanal region, which are elevated to protect visitors from annual flooding.
- Underwater Views: Visitors can observe giant river otters, fish, stingrays, and river turtles in their natural habitats through underwater viewing areas.
- Overhead Crossing: The exhibit includes an overhead crossing that allows visitors to observe jaguars as they move between habitats.
- Interactive Elements: The exhibit features informative signage and engaging presentations that highlight the importance of conservation efforts in protecting the Pantanal and its inhabitants.
Visiting the Houston Zoo’s South America’s Pantanal Exhibit
The Houston Zoo is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours during the summer months. The South America’s Pantanal exhibit is open during regular zoo hours, allowing visitors to explore this captivating habitat at their leisure.
Admission to the Houston Zoo and the South America’s Pantanal exhibit varies depending on the time of year and the type of ticket. General admission tickets range from $19.95 to $24.95 for adults, with discounts available for children, seniors, and members.
To plan your visit, you can find the Houston Zoo’s address and contact information below:
- Address: 6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030
- Phone Number: 713-533-6500