The San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is a world-renowned zoo located in Balboa Park, San Diego, California. It is one of the largest and most famous zoos in the world, attracting over 3 million visitors annually. The zoo is known for its extensive collection of animals, including many rare and endangered species.
The San Diego Zoo’s Founding
The San Diego Zoo was founded in 1916 by Dr. Harry M. Wegeforth, a local physician who had a passion for animals. Dr. Wegeforth was inspired to start the zoo after hearing the roar of a lion at the nearby Balboa Park during a drive home from work. He and a group of fellow animal lovers rallied to buy the abandoned 100-acre Balboa Park ostrich farm, and transformed it into the world-class zoo it is today.
The Zoo’s Location
The San Diego Zoo is located in Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre urban cultural park in San Diego, California. The park is home to many other cultural institutions, including museums, gardens, and theaters, and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The zoo itself covers 100 acres of the park’s total area.
The Zoo’s Animal Collection: A Brief Overview
The San Diego Zoo is home to over 3,500 animals representing over 650 species from all over the world. It is known for its extensive collection of rare and endangered species, including giant pandas, koalas, and Tasmanian devils. The zoo is also home to a wide variety of other animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and elephants.
The Zoo’s Design and Layout
The San Diego Zoo was designed with the animals’ well-being in mind. The zoo’s habitats are designed to closely mimic the animals’ natural environments, and many of the enclosures are open-air, allowing visitors to see the animals in their natural habitats. The zoo is divided into several distinct areas, including the Lost Forest, the Urban Jungle, and the Outback, each showcasing different ecosystems and animal habitats.
How is the Zoo Measured in Acres?
The San Diego Zoo is measured in acres, which is a unit of measurement commonly used to describe the size of land. One acre is equal to 43,560 square feet. The zoo’s total area is calculated by measuring the total area of all the habitats and structures within the zoo.
The Zoo’s Total Area in Acres
The San Diego Zoo covers a total area of 100 acres within Balboa Park. This includes the various animal habitats, gardens, and other structures within the zoo. The zoo is constantly expanding and evolving, with new habitats and exhibits added regularly.
The Zoo’s Expansion Plans
The San Diego Zoo has several expansion plans in the works, including a new exhibit for African penguins, a new habitat for jaguars, and an expansion of the zoo’s koala exhibit. The zoo is also working on several conservation projects, including efforts to save the northern white rhinoceros and the California condor.
The San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy
The San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy is a non-profit organization that works to save endangered species and their habitats. The conservancy is involved in many conservation projects around the world and works closely with the San Diego Zoo to promote conservation efforts.
The Zoo’s Impact on the Local Economy
The San Diego Zoo is a major tourist attraction and a significant contributor to the local economy. The zoo employs over 3,000 people and generates over $800 million in economic activity annually. It is estimated that the zoo’s visitors contribute over $200 million to the local economy each year.
Conclusion: The San Diego Zoo as a World-Class Attraction
The San Diego Zoo is a world-class attraction and a beloved institution in San Diego. It is known for its extensive collection of animals, its commitment to conservation, and its innovative design and layout. Whether you are a local or a visitor, a trip to the San Diego Zoo is a must-see experience.
References: Where to Learn More About the San Diego Zoo
- San Diego Zoo website: https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/
- San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy website: https://institute.sandiegozoo.org/
- Balboa Park website: https://balboapark.org/
- Visit San Diego website: https://www.sandiego.org/
