Austin Zoo

“We don’t own Planet Earth, we belong to it,” Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter, once said. “And we must share it with our wildlife.” That’s exactly what happens at Austin Zoo. Spreading across 15 scenic acres in the Texas Hill Country, this isn’t a zoo in the traditional sense. It’s a private, non-profit animal zoo that assists animals in need through rescue, conservation, and education. So far, they’ve rescued over 300 animals of 100 different species. You’ll see everything from majestic big cats to rambunctious monkeys to exotic birds and reptiles living the good life. 
But a life of comfort and care provided by loving zookeepers wasn’t always the case. Some animals have faced abuse, neglect, and abandonment prior to coming to the zoo. DEA agents found Zulema, a blue-eyed white tiger, in a cramped cage during a raid. Now she lives in a natural habitat and splashes in her pool. 
You’ll see orphaned black bears cubs nurtured by the zookeepers and now fully grown, with their early hard-knock days a distant memory. You’ll be grateful that the chimps and other primates retired from research laboratories finally have lots of elbow room and time to play with their enrichment toys. These are just a few of the zoo’s many rescued and resilient creatures that have a forever home at Austin Zoo.

Austin Zoo is Dedicated to Education

Along with rescuing animals in need, the rescue zoo promotes a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation and habitat preservation through education. Throughout the day, caretakers dish out an informative and entertaining “inside scoop” on some of the zoo’s residents.

Austin Zoo also offers camps to educate the next generation of wildlife enthusiasts and budding conservationists. Zookeepers and naturalists introduce campers, ages 5 to 14, to the zoo’s residents through talks and close-up encounters. Those “I’m bored” days quickly become device-free days filled with adventure, discovery, and wonder.

Close Encounters of the Best Kind

Luckily, kids aren’t the only ones who can interact with the zoo’s animal ambassadors. Book a private Capybara Encounter and meet Diego, Enrique, and Olivia. These friendly, good-natured, and curious creatures are native to South America. And while they resemble pigs, they are, in fact, the largest rodents in the world.

You can spend quality time with Galapagos tortoises, too. Muffet, Gertie, and Wheezy love lettuce and will eat it right out of your hand! And speaking of feeding the zoo’s critters, head over to the Hoofstock Feeding Area. It’s home to surrendered and retired farm animals, including llamas, goats, sheep, donkeys, and Albert Einswine — a Berkshire pig and a real ham! Grab a bag of animal feed and instantly gain a barnyard buddy or two.

A Day of Family Fun

If you’re looking for a unique, family-friendly activity, check out the Family Nature Experience on Sunday mornings. Like the kids’ camps, you’ll meet the zoo’s ambassador animals. You’ll also tour parts of Austin Zoo with an experienced zoo educator. 
Cap off your visit with a scenic 20-minute ride on the miniature train that departs from the zoo’s train depot. Be sure to bring food and drinks from home to enjoy a picnic on the grounds or grab snacks and beverages from the gift shop or train depot. 
A day at the rescue zoo goes beyond seeing fascinating wildlife. Austin Zoo is a magical place that tugs at your heartstrings and rewards you with memories that last a lifetime.
To plan your visit, to book a capybara or Galapagos tortoise encounter, or to see upcoming events, take a look at Austin Zoo’s official website and Austin Zoo’s Facebook page.