Although most of the state is ruled by wilderness and everywhere you turn you can see wildlife, it is still wonderful to have a zoo in the neighborhood. Alaska has its very own zoo that lies on the edge of Anchorage. This wonderful education center has outreach programs, animal rehabilitation and housing for animals in need. The Alaska Zoo is also the home of Zoo Lights, a winter exhibition that will fill a dark winter night with magic.
Since 1969, the zoo has cared for orphaned and injured wildlife as the only zoo in Alaska. Many of the animals are found wounded or orphaned and alone and house them in this picturesque place.
Polar bears are one of the Alaskan animals on display, and perfectly suited to the climate (unless Anchorage is a little too warm!) They have outdoor cages for their comfort.
The zoo has a wealth of educational programming for all ages. The guides tour, visit classrooms with animals, and host special events like story times and informational Critter Chats.
The scientists help nurse rescued animals back to health, or find them new homes if they can't return to the wild. A major function of their work is caring for animals that wouldn't make it on their own.
There are a number of bird species in the zoo including magpie, rooster, Merlin, sharp-shinned hawk, short-eared owl, Great gray owl, peregrine falcon, red-tailed hawk, great horned owl, and Bald eagle.
Muskoxen live wild in Alaska and Canada, and have changed little since they adapted for arctic life in the Ice Age.
They also have a Canadian lynx, the only wild cat species native to Alaska. These rare animals are extremely illusive in the wild.
The park is lined with brilliant lights in the winter months for touring in the dark evening hours. Check out Zoo Lights here.
The wolf has a special place in the heart of many Alaskans, all being lone wolves in some way. In the fall, celebrate Wolf Day where you can howl at the moon.
Visit this small zoo to see just a few of the amazing animals that call Alaska home, and some that don't. You will have an excellent day trip in Anchorage with friends or family.
The Alaska Zoo
4731 O'Malley Road
Anchorage, Alaska 99507
Hours for Spring/Summer 2018:
February: 10am to 4pm* Daily (6:30-8:30pm on Zoo Lights nights)
March and April: 10am to 5pm* Daily (Zoo Lights end March 4th)
May: 9am to 6pm* Daily
June, July and August: 9am to 9pm* Daily
If you like the zoo, check out the aquarium in This Epic Alaska Aquarium Is Perfect For A Family Day Trip. Or you might like 20 Legitimately Fun Things You Can Do In Alaska Without Spending A Dime.
Have you been to the Anchorage Zoo? Tell us about it in the comments below.
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