Located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the Tulsa Zoo serves as an 85 acre facility that promotes the conversation, sustainability, and education of animals. The Tulsa Zoo has a variety of attractions spread out across their 85 acres of land. In order to get the most out of your time at the Tulsa Zoo, employees of the zoo recommend to spend at least three hours exploring the Tulsa Zoo.

  • When was the Tulsa Zoo founded and by whom?

    • The Tulsa Zoo was founded in 1927 by the Tulsa Zoological Society. One of the earliest attractions was Monkey Island, established in honor of George Watkins, former mayor of Tulsa.

  • What were some of the zoo’s earliest exhibits?

    • The zoo’s second exhibit was a koi pond, originally used in 1939 as an alligator attraction. About ten years later, the zoo acquired its first chimpanzee, named Duke.

  • What developments occurred at the Tulsa Zoo during the 1950s and 1960s?

    • During this time, the Tulsa Zoo expanded significantly, acquiring many animals and building various habitats, including:

      • Primate Aviary Building (now the Conservation Center)
      • Cat and Bear Grottos
      • The zoo’s first giraffes

      The Tulsa Zoo was also one of the first U.S. zoos to raise a wide number of giraffes.

  • Who were the notable directors of the Tulsa Zoo?

    • In 1966, Director Hugh S. Davis resigned, and David G. Zucconi took over. Zucconi introduced several initiatives that led to the zoo gaining national recognition.

  • What can visitors expect from the African Plains exhibit?

    • African Plains immerses visitors in a welcome village atmosphere reflective of Africa. Featured animals include giraffes, southern ground hornbills, and lions.

  • What animals are featured in the Asia exhibit?

    • The Asia exhibit focuses on endangered species native to the continent. Notable animals include Malayan tigers and snow leopards.

  • What is the Children’s Zoo exhibit?

    • The Children’s Zoo offers a chance to observe and interact with smaller mammals. Animals include red kangaroos, guinea hogs, river otters, and miniature horses.

  • What is the Chimpanzee Connection?

    • The Chimpanzee Connection is an indoor and outdoor exhibit that allows visitors to observe chimpanzees year-round in an up-close setting.

  • What can be seen at the Conservation Center?

    • The Conservation Center features a mix of reptiles and primates. A highlight is the Reptile Nursery, where visitors can watch reptiles hatching from eggs.

  • What is featured in Robert J. LaFortune WildLIFE Trek: Life in the Cold?

    • Life in the Cold showcases animals such as chinchillas and grizzly bears that thrive in cold environments.

  • What animals are in Robert J. LaFortune WildLIFE Trek: Life in the Desert?

    • Life in the Desert features animals with unique desert adaptations, including naked mole rats and black-footed cats.

  • What does Robert J. LaFortune WildLIFE Trek: Life in the Forest include?

    • Life in the Forest houses a variety of forest-dwelling animals, with highlights including bobcats and crocodile monitors.

  • Which animals are found in Robert J. LaFortune WildLIFE Trek: Life in the Water?

    • Life in the Water features aquatic animals such as lionfish and seahorses.

  • What is the Mary K. Chapman Rhino Reserve?

    • The Mary K. Chapman Rhino Reserve is a naturalistic habitat with indoor and outdoor features for white rhinos, African crowned cranes, springbok antelope, and white storks.

  • What is the Oceans and Islands exhibit like?

    • Oceans and Islands immerses visitors in a tropical island setting, featuring animals such as African penguins and sea lions, along with themed architecture like shipwreck elements.

  • What can visitors expect in The Rainforest exhibit?

    • The Rainforest houses animals native to Central and South America. A highlight is the two-toed sloth, which roams freely throughout the exhibit, allowing for a truly interactive experience.

  • What is the Lost Kingdom exhibit?

    • Lost Kingdom is a new exhibit that debuted in 2017. It is a multi-structure complex designed to give visitors an interactive experience and features architecture inspired by ancient cultures like Angkor Wat.

  • Does the Tulsa Zoo offer educational programs?

    • Yes, the Tulsa Zoo provides a variety of educational opportunities such as specialized tours, classes, and interactive activities for all ages. For more details, visit the zoo’s official website.

  • Where is the Tulsa Zoo located?

    • Tulsa Zoo, 6421 E 36th St N, Tulsa, OK 74115, Phone: 918-669-6600

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