Summer, with long days and gorgeous weather, is the perfect time for families to enjoy outdoor attractions like the Birmingham Zoo.
Covering 122 acres, the zoo is home to 550 animals of 180 species from six continents, including zebras, orangutans, elephants and a jaguar.
The only Alabama zoo accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the facility draws 500,000 visitors annually.
Visitors can see the Birmingham Zoo’s new baby giraffe, Mopane (pronounced Mo-Paw-Nee). The first giraffe born at the zoo since 2014, Mopane was born in April to mother Ruby and father Jalil, with the help of the zoo’s animal care team.
“We’re overjoyed to welcome this beautiful baby giraffe to our zoo family,” said Chris Pfefferkorn, the zoo’s CEO and President, calling the birth “another step” in the zoo’s work to help conserve giraffes.
There are lots of animal experiences at the zoo, including goat walks and bird feedings, some at the Junior League of Birmingham Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo.
Visitors can also enjoy riding the Red Diamond Express Train and climbing the Full Moon Bar-B-Que Adventure Tower.
The zoo also hosts special summer events:
June 8: Zoo Brews, with craft breweries and food trucks. 6-9 p.m. Ages 21 and older.
June 15: Pancakes and Princesses, an enchanted day in a magical court of characters during the Royal Pancakes and Princesses Breakfast. 8:30 a.m.to 2 p.m.
For even more fun year-round, become a member. Members enjoy unlimited visits as well as discounts on events, camps, classes and more.
Located at 2630 Cahaba Road, thezoo is open Wednesday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information, including membership packages, go to birminghamzoo.com or call 205-879-0409.
