From the towering Masai giraffe, to the tiny poison dart frog, the Virginia Zoo is home to more than 700 of our furry, feathered and scaly animal friends, not to mention countless plants as well. Our plants and animals include exotic representatives from Africa, Asia, Australia, North America and more. Come spend the day with us exploring the animal kingdom and the plants that surround it.

Venture to the African Safari Trail, home to a spectacular collection of scenic landscapes and impressive creatures, big and small. Animals such as rhinos, giraffes, lions, tortoises, cheetahs and many more can be found here all year round. Be sure to travel here on your next visit at the Zoo!

The program animal collection is distinct from the large collection of animals on exhibit at the Virginia Zoo, which are not used in programs (with the exception of some of those in the Zoo Farm). A variety of animals, including a few domestic ones, appear in programs: small and medium-sized mammals, birds, snakes, lizards, turtles and tortoises, frogs, salamanders, and several kinds of land-dwelling invertebrates.

These program animals are commonly presented at outreach programs, school programs here at the Zoo, performances on the ZooLive! Stage, special events at the Zoo, and birthday parties. Certain program animals are presented in public areas of the Zoo adjacent to exhibits when weather conditions are amenable.

Photo of Animal Wellness Campus Sign

The Virginia Zoo’s Animal Wellness Campus is a comprehensive, state-of-the-art medical and diet facility that serves the more than 700 animals that call the Zoo their home. A one-of-a-kind learning experience for adults and children, the Campus educates visitors about good nutrition, exercise, proper hygiene and animal wellness. The building structure is composed of 100% recycled materials; the outer panels are recycled plastic and wood resin. Skylights throughout the facility reduce electrical needs, allowing natural sunrise and sunset cycles for hospital guests.

Animal Under Veterinary Care

Did you see this sign on your visit today? The Virginia Zoo is committed to excellence in animal care and well-being. Many times, our animals are treated in their habitats to reduce the stress that a visit to or prolonged stay at the Animal Wellness Campus may have. See information below on animals currently under veterinary care in their habitats:

  • Chyna, Victoria crowned pigeon: Our female Victoria crowned pigeon is under veterinary care for a mechanical lameness. Her abnormal gait is caused by anatomical changes in her joint which have resulted in increased motion in the joint rather than by pain. She is under continued monitoring to ensure this does not progress to a painful condition.
  • Tess, Western heritage mini cow: This animal is under veterinary care for an ongoing abscess on her cheek. She is receiving daily treatment and observation.
  • Nina, White-naped crane: Our female white-naped crane is currently under observation and treatment for an minor injury near her right eye.
  • Ricky, Kunekune pig: This animal is under veterinary care for occasional vestibular episodes. Vestibular disease occurs most commonly in geriatric animals (like Ricky) and people (for humans, we refer to it as vertigo). Ricky is being monitored and actively treated.

Take our virtual tour here!

Vibrant foliage among views of scenic exhibits and a vast array of exotic animals hailing from dozens of Asian countries are what make up Asia: Trail of the Tiger. From India to Japan, the Philippines to Russia, Malaysia to Sri Lanka, and Papua New Guinea to Myanmar, Asia: Trail of the Tiger is home to some of Asia’s most beautiful furry and feathered creatures. Come see your favorite red panda napping, the siamangs hanging around, the tigers playing, the moon bear snacking and so much more!

A relaxing spot to encounter various freshwater turtle species.

Slither into the World of Reptiles and Friends to meet animals big and small, scaly slimy and even furry. From seahorses to venomous snakes, vibrant frogs to multi-colored monitors, there’s an animal to suit everyone’s fancy. Watch lizards crawl, monkeys climb, birds jetting by, snakes sense with their tongues and even immerse yourself in the floor-to-ceiling crocodile marsh!

The Farm has the biggest variety of animals at the Zoo. Farm animals, as well as exotic creatures from all over the world can be found here. The ZooFarm isn’t just for kids, it’s for people of all ages who love to interact with all types of cute animals! Moo with the cows, feel the fuzzy fur of a sheep or the thick hair of a pig, watch the cavies jump, check out what’s inside the rodent barn, and during the summer, brush your favorite goats in the goat yard! Be sure to be cautious, these animals love nibbling on just about anything!