Exhibits

Venture to Africa-Okavango Delta, 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 to the Africa-Okavango Delta 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 Zoo camps and “snoozes” (overnight group programs), and in outreaches, school programs here at the Zoo, performances on the ZooLive! Stage, family programs, 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.

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:

Tapir

Our male Malayan tapir, Sinar, is currently receiving treatment for an abscess on his face.

Cascading waterfalls, overlooking views of scenic exhibits, vibrant foliage 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 tiger cubs playing, the sun bear snacking and so much more!

North America’s finest noble animals can be found in this area of the Zoo. Honor the United States’ National Mammal, the bison, and visit the National Bird, the Zoo’s rescued Northern bald eagle. Just outside of the exhibits lie dozens of oyster restoration beds and a beautiful fountain pond where wild geese and cranes can be found resting.

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, including fingers!