Texas Zoo | Victoria

The Texas Zoo, located in Victoria, Texas, is a small yet vibrant zoological park known for its strong focus on native Texan wildlife, conservation, and education. It is situated within the expansive Riverside Park, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. The zoo is managed by a nonprofit organization and is accredited by the Zoological Association of America.

History and Mission
The zoo traces its roots back to the 1950s and has since evolved into a facility that houses more than 100 animals across approximately 70 species. Many of these animals are either native to Texas or have been rescued from captivity or injury. The Texas Zoo’s mission is to connect people with wildlife and nature through educational programs, up-close experiences, and conservation efforts, particularly focusing on species native to the South Texas region.

Animal Exhibits
The zoo offers an engaging mix of exhibits featuring mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Notable highlights include:

Big Cat Exhibit: Home to cougars and bobcats.

South Texas Plains Exhibit: Features regional species such as javelinas, whitetail deer, and turkeys.

Tropical and Reptile House: Houses snakes, lizards, turtles, and amphibians in an indoor, climate-controlled environment.

Birds of Prey: Includes owls, hawks, and vultures—many of whom are non-releasable rescues.

Giraffe and Kangaroo Enclosures: Visitors can observe and sometimes feed giraffes and red kangaroos.

Interactive Experiences
The zoo offers family-friendly, hands-on experiences such as:

Budgie Aviary: Visitors can walk into a large aviary and feed parakeets.

Petting Zoo (Village Walk-Thru): Children can interact with goats, sheep, and other domestic animals.

Giraffe Feedings: At scheduled times, visitors may purchase romaine lettuce to feed the giraffes.

Educational Programs
Education is central to the zoo’s mission. Programs include:

Keeper Chats: Informative talks by zookeepers about specific animals, their habits, and conservation.

School Field Trips: Structured visits tailored to various grade levels with hands-on learning.

Zoo Camps: Seasonal camps such as Spring Break Camp and Summer Zoo Camp that engage children with nature through fun, educational activities.

Community Events: Annual events like Zoo Boo (Halloween), Wild About Wine (adults-only fundraiser), and Zoo Lights (holiday light displays).

Facilities and Accessibility

Restrooms and picnic areas are available within and near the zoo grounds.

Gift Shop: Offers zoo-themed merchandise and snacks.

Stroller and wheelchair rentals are available.

Parking: Free and located adjacent to the zoo entrance.

The zoo is wheelchair accessible and generally easy to navigate due to its compact layout.

Admission & Hours

Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM).

General admission ranges from $9.50 to $10.50 depending on age, with children under 3 admitted free.

Memberships and annual passes are available for frequent visitors.

Visitor Guidelines
To ensure a safe and respectful environment, the zoo prohibits outside food (except baby food and water), smoking, and pets (except service animals). Feeding or touching animals is only allowed where explicitly permitted.

The Texas Zoo, while smaller than major metropolitan zoos, offers a meaningful and intimate wildlife experience that emphasizes education, conservation, and community involvement.