Memphis Zoo | Memphis

The Memphis Zoo, located within Overton Park at 2000 Prentiss Place in Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the oldest and most renowned zoological institutions in the United States. Established in 1906, the zoo has grown substantially over the decades, now spanning approximately 70 acres and housing over 4,500 animals representing more than 500 species from all around the world. It serves as a vital center for wildlife conservation, education, recreation, and community engagement, attracting over one million visitors annually.

History and Development

The Memphis Zoo’s origins date back to the early 20th century when a group of civic-minded Memphians sought to create a place for wildlife education and entertainment. Officially opening to the public in 1906, it began with a modest collection of animals but steadily expanded throughout the 20th century, incorporating modern exhibits and emphasizing naturalistic habitats.

The zoo is managed by the Memphis Zoological Society, which oversees animal care, conservation programs, education initiatives, and facility development. Its long-standing commitment to conservation and animal welfare has earned it accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

Zoo Layout and Themed Exhibits

The Memphis Zoo is divided into several distinctive themed areas that mimic the natural habitats of the species they showcase, enhancing animal welfare and visitor experience.

Northwest Passage

This exhibit transports visitors to the forests and coastal regions of the Pacific Northwest. It features animals such as:

Polar bears, including underwater viewing areas where visitors can observe their swimming behaviors.

Sea lions, which participate in entertaining and educational shows at a 500-seat amphitheater.

Black bears, bald eagles, and other native wildlife are also part of this habitat.

The design incorporates lush vegetation, rocky outcrops, and water features to simulate the natural environment.

Zambezi River Hippo Camp

Inspired by the Zambezi River ecosystem of Africa, this exhibit houses:

Hippos, with both underwater and surface viewing windows to watch their semi-aquatic lifestyle.

Nile crocodiles, flamingos, and various African bird species.

The immersive environment educates visitors about African river habitats and the importance of freshwater conservation.

Teton Trek

Modeled after the landscapes of Yellowstone National Park, Teton Trek offers a mountain wilderness experience. Key species include:

Grizzly bears, featured in large, naturalistic enclosures.

Elk, timber wolves, and trumpeter swans.

The exhibit features a 20-foot waterfall and a 30-foot geyser to evoke the dynamic features of the Yellowstone region.

African Veldt

This expansive area recreates the African grasslands, home to some of the zoo’s most iconic residents:

African elephants, which visitors can observe in a spacious, enriched environment.

Giraffes, allowing close-up views and educational feeding opportunities.

Zebras, alongside other species typical of the African savanna.

The Veldt is designed to provide both educational insight and conservation messaging about African wildlife.

China Exhibit

A cultural and ecological showcase blending wildlife and traditional Chinese architecture, this exhibit features:

Giant pandas, one of the zoo’s star attractions, under a conservation agreement to protect this endangered species.

Sulawesi macaques and Pere David’s deer, rare animals native to China.

Visitors can also experience a traditional Chinese pagoda and the Cultural Exchange Bell Pavilion, enhancing the cultural context of the exhibit.

Cat Country

Covering three acres, Cat Country is a specialized habitat for feline species, boasting:

Thirty-eight species of wild cats, including lions, tigers, leopards, and panthers.

Naturalistic settings that encourage natural behaviors and enrich animal welfare.

Educational signage and programs provide information about feline biology, habitat threats, and conservation needs.

Animals of the Night

This unique exhibit focuses on nocturnal species rarely seen in other zoos, including:

Bats, porcupines, aardvarks, and other nocturnal mammals.

The environment is adapted to simulate nighttime conditions during the day, allowing visitors to witness these animals’ behaviors.

Primate Canyon

An outdoor exhibit highlighting the diversity of primates with species such as:

Gorillas, orangutans, and a variety of monkey species.

Enclosures emphasize climbing structures and social groupings to promote natural interactions.

Conservation and Breeding Programs

The Memphis Zoo plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation, both locally and globally. It participates in various Species Survival Plans (SSPs), cooperative breeding programs managed by the AZA aimed at maintaining genetically diverse and sustainable populations of endangered animals.

One notable success story is the zoo’s long-term effort to preserve the Louisiana pine snake, a rare and elusive species. Over the past 40+ years, the zoo has developed breeding programs that saw a record hatching of 114 eggs in 2024. The hatchlings are carefully nurtured and prepared for eventual release into protected wild habitats to bolster wild populations.

The zoo also supports conservation research, habitat preservation projects, and public awareness campaigns that inform visitors about the importance of biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Educational Outreach and Visitor Engagement

The Memphis Zoo offers a variety of educational programs designed to engage children, families, and schools:

Guided tours led by trained educators who share detailed knowledge about animals and conservation.

Interactive exhibits and hands-on activities tailored to various age groups.

Seasonal camps and workshops focused on biology, ecology, and environmental stewardship.

Public lectures, behind-the-scenes tours, and volunteer opportunities further enrich the educational mission.

The zoo emphasizes the role of community involvement in conservation, encouraging visitors to be ambassadors for wildlife preservation.

Annual Events and Attractions

The Memphis Zoo hosts several popular seasonal events that enhance the visitor experience:

Zoo Boo: A family-friendly Halloween celebration with themed activities, haunted trails, and animal encounters.

Zoo Lights: A winter holiday spectacle featuring over one million illuminated lights, festive decorations, ice skating, visits with Santa, and a Ferris wheel.

Metamorphosis: The Butterfly Effect: A springtime exhibit showcasing the life cycle of butterflies amid blooming gardens.

Zoo Rendezvous: A summer food and drink festival featuring local Memphis culinary vendors.

Monogram Foods Loves Kids Foundation Splash Park: A large Egyptian-themed splash pad open in warmer months with water slides, dumping buckets, and interactive water features for children.

Visitor Amenities and Accessibility

The Memphis Zoo provides a welcoming and comfortable experience for all guests:

Operating hours generally range from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during spring and summer, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in fall and winter.

Admission prices are reasonable, with discounts for seniors, children, and free entry for toddlers under 2.

Parking is available both for free on nearby streets and at a paid lot near the zoo.

The zoo is wheelchair accessible, with services and facilities to accommodate visitors with special needs.

On-site dining options, restrooms, gift shops, and stroller rentals are available.

The zoo is also an accredited arboretum, featuring over 40 labeled species of trees, enhancing the educational environment with botanical learning.

Recent Highlights

In November 2024, the zoo welcomed Grogu, a baby aardvark born in the Animals of the Night exhibit, quickly becoming a visitor favorite and symbolizing the zoo’s successful care and breeding efforts.

The zoo mourned the passing of Angela Kate, a beloved giraffe, in March 2024. In response, the zoo has invested in habitat improvements to ensure safety and well-being for all animals.

Summary

The Memphis Zoo is a dynamic and beloved institution that balances entertainment, education, and conservation. Through its diverse exhibits that mimic natural habitats, dedicated conservation programs, engaging educational offerings, and community events, the zoo provides a rich experience for visitors while contributing significantly to wildlife preservation efforts. Its longstanding history and continual modernization position it as a leading zoo in the Southeastern United States and a treasured Memphis landmark.