Animals - AL Gulf Coast Zoo

Meet Our Animals

Our Animals

118 species, 22 critically endangered species.

The inhabitants of the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo are a richly diverse and decidedly unique population for a small-town community zoo. Every single animal has a name and a backstory. No matter their beginnings or their circumstances, they all have a loving and safe home at Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Meet our animals!

Virginia Opossum

Conservation Status: Least Concern
The Virginia opossum, scientifically known as Didelphis virginiana, is North America's only marsupial, characterized by its distinctive appearance with a hairless prehensile tail, pointy snout, and a remarkable adaptation of playing dead when threatened. This nocturnal creature is highly adaptable, inhabiting a variety of environments, and is known for its opportunistic omnivorous diet.

Southern Three-banded Armadillo

Conservation Status: Near Threatened
The southern three-banded armadillo, scientifically named Tolypeutes matacus, is a small, burrowing mammal native to South America, recognized for its unique armor-like shell consisting of three movable bands that allow it to curl into a protective ball. This nocturnal insectivore is adept at foraging for a variety of invertebrates, using its sharp claws and long tongue to extract its prey from the soil.

Linne's Two-toed Sloth

Conservation Status: Least Concern
Linne's two-toed sloth, scientifically known as Choloepus didactylus, is a slow-moving arboreal mammal found in the tropical rainforests of South America. Distinguished by its distinctive two-toed feet, a face marked by a perpetually content expression, and a slow-paced lifestyle, this sloth spends most of its life hanging upside down from tree branches, feeding on a diet of leaves, fruits, and occasionally insects.

Brown Lemur

Conservation Status: Least Concern
The Brown Lemur, scientifically named Eulemur fulvus, is a medium-sized primate endemic to Madagascar, characterized by its warm, reddish-brown fur and distinctive white face with contrasting dark eye patches. Living in social groups, these lemurs are arboreal creatures, displaying agility in navigating the forest canopy while primarily consuming a varied diet of fruits, leaves, and occasional insects.

Ring Tailed Lemur

Conservation Status: Endangered
The Ring-Tailed Lemur, scientifically known as Lemur catta, is a charismatic primate native to Madagascar, easily recognized by its long, banded tail adorned with distinctive black and white rings. Living in social groups called troops, these lemurs are known for their unique social behaviors, including sunbathing in a characteristic yoga-like pose, and they primarily consume a diet consisting of fruits, leaves, and occasionally insects.

Red Ruffed Lemur

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered
The Red Ruffed Lemur, scientifically named Varecia rubra, is a striking primate native to the rainforests of northeastern Madagascar, distinguished by its vibrant red fur and a prominent ruff of longer fur around its neck. Known for their arboreal lifestyle, these lemurs are adept climbers, and their diet mainly consists of fruits, nectar, leaves, and occasional insects, making them an essential part of the island's unique biodiversity.

Black and White Ruffed Lemur

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered
The black-and-white ruffed lemur is an endangered species of ruffed lemur, one of two which are endemic to the island of Madagascar. Despite having a larger range than the red ruffed lemur, it has a much smaller population that is spread out, living in lower population densities and reproductively isolated.

Cotton Top Tamarin

Conservation Status: critically Endangered
The Cotton-top Tamarin, scientifically named Saguinus oedipus, is a small and critically endangered primate native to the tropical forests of Colombia. Recognized by its distinct crest of white hair on its head and a body covered in long, soft fur, these social and arboreal monkeys are known for their agile movements and their preference for a diet consisting of fruits, insects, and nectar.

Capuchins

Conservation Status: Critically Endangeredl
Capuchins, belonging to the Cebidae family, are New World monkeys known for their distinctive appearance with a cap-like crown of hair on their heads. These intelligent and agile primates are native to Central and South America, where they exhibit versatile foraging behaviors, consuming a diet that includes fruits, nuts, insects, and small vertebrates.

Squirrel Monkey

Conservation Status: Least Endangered
Squirrel monkeys are New World monkeys of the genus Saimiri. Saimiri is the only genus in the subfamily Saimirinae. The name of the genus is of Tupi origin and was also used as an English name by early researchers. Squirrel monkeys live in the tropical forests of Central and South America in the canopy layer.

Coppery Titi Monkey

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Coppery Titi Monkey, scientifically named Callicebus cupreus, is a charming primate native to the Amazon rainforests of South America. Characterized by its reddish-brown fur, a distinctive cap of lighter hair, and a long, non-prehensile tail, these monogamous and arboreal monkeys primarily consume fruits, leaves, and insects in their lush and diverse habitats.

African Crested Porcupine

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The African Crested Porcupine, scientifically named Hystrix africaeaustralis, is a robust and nocturnal rodent native to a variety of habitats in Africa, including grasslands, forests, and savannas. Distinguished by its formidable coat of sharp, barbed quills and a stocky build, these solitary herbivores feed on roots, tubers, and a variety of vegetation, relying on their well-developed defensive spines as protection against predators.

Hamadryas Baboon

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Hamadryas Baboon, scientifically named Papio hamadryas, is a large and distinctive Old World monkey found in the arid regions of the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Recognized for its striking appearance with a mane-like ruff of fur around the neck and a pronounced social structure, these baboons exhibit complex behaviors and primarily forage on a varied diet of fruits, seeds, and vegetation.

Colombian Black Spider Monkey

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered
The Colombian Black Spider Monkey, scientifically known as Ateles fusciceps rufiventris, is a large and endangered primate endemic to the rainforests of Colombia. Distinguished by its long limbs, prehensile tail, and black fur, these highly arboreal monkeys play a crucial role in seed dispersal as they feed on fruits, leaves, and occasional insects while navigating the treetops with remarkable agility.

Prehensile-tailed Porcupine

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Prehensile-tailed Porcupine, scientifically known as Coendou prehensilis, is a nocturnal rodent native to the rainforests of Central and South America. Recognizable by its long, prehensile tail, covered in bristly spines, these arboreal creatures use their strong tails to navigate the trees and primarily feed on a diet of fruits, leaves, and bark.

Chinchilla

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Chinchilla is a small, crepuscular rodent native to the Andes Mountains in South America, known for its incredibly soft and dense fur. Renowned for its fur quality, Chinchillas have been domesticated for the fur trade, but they also make popular pets due to their gentle demeanor and social nature.

Patagonian Mara

Conservation Status:Critically Endangered
The Patagonian Mara, scientifically known as Dolichotis patagonum, is a large and herbivorous rodent native to the grasslands of Argentina. Resembling a mix between a rabbit and a deer, these social animals are characterized by their long legs, distinctive coat, and are known for their swift running ability to escape predators in their open habitat.

Capybara

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Capybara is the world's largest rodent, native to South America and known for its semi-aquatic lifestyle. With a distinctive appearance featuring a large, barrel-shaped body, short legs, and webbed feet, these herbivores are highly social animals often found near water, where they graze on aquatic plants and enjoy swimming to escape predators.

Flemish Giant Rabbit

Conservation Status: Critically Concerned
The Flemish Giant Rabbit is a domestic breed known for its impressive size, often considered one of the largest rabbit breeds in the world. Recognized for its gentle temperament and distinctive coat colors, these rabbits make popular pets and are cherished for their calm demeanor and affectionate nature.

Serval

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Serval is a medium-sized wild cat native to Africa, recognized for its striking appearance with a slender body, large ears, and distinctive golden coat adorned with bold black spots and stripes. Renowned for its exceptional hunting skills, the Serval is a skilled and agile predator that preys on small mammals, birds, and insects in its grassland and savannah habitats.

Eurasian Lynx

Conservation Status:Least Concerned
The Eurasian Lynx is a medium to large-sized wild cat native to the forests and tundra of Europe, Asia, and Siberia. Recognized for its tufted ears, prominent facial ruff, and distinctive spotted coat, this solitary and elusive predator is well-adapted to hunting a variety of prey, including deer and smaller mammals, in its diverse range of habitats.

Bobcat

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Bobcat is a medium-sized wild cat native to North America, recognized for its distinctive appearance with tufted ears, a short tail with a white tip, and a reddish-brown or grayish coat covered in spots and streaks. Highly adaptable and solitary in nature, bobcats are skilled hunters, preying on small mammals and birds, and they are found in a variety of habitats ranging from forests and deserts to suburban areas.

Clouded Leopard

Conservation Status: Vulnerable
The Clouded Leopard is a medium-sized wild cat native to the forests and foothills of Southeast Asia. Known for its striking appearance with distinctive cloud-like patterns on its coat, these elusive and arboreal felines are excellent climbers, navigating trees with agility as they hunt for a diverse range of prey including birds, monkeys, and small mammals.

Lion

Conservation Status:Vulnerable
The lion, scientifically known as Panthera leo, is one of the most iconic and majestic big cats, found primarily in Africa with a small population in India's Gir Forest. Known for their social behavior, impressive manes in males, and exceptional hunting prowess, lions are apex predators that live in prides, collaborating in cooperative hunting and raising their cubs in a complex social structure.

Gray Wolf

Conservation Status:Critically Concerned
The gray wolf, scientifically known as Canis lupus, is a highly adaptable and social carnivore found in various ecosystems across North America, Eurasia, and the Middle East. Recognized by its grayish fur, intelligence, and complex pack structure, gray wolves are efficient hunters that play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance by preying on herbivores.

New Guinea singing dog

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered
The New Guinea singing dog or New Guinea Highland dog is an ancient lineage of dog found in the New Guinea Highlands, on the island of New Guinea. Once considered to be a separate species in its own right, under the name Canis hallstromi, it is closely related to the Australian dingo.

North American Black Bear

Conservation Status: Critically Concerned
The North American Black Bear, scientifically known as Ursus americanus, is a medium-sized bear species found throughout the forests, mountains, and swamps of North America. Known for their adaptability, black bears exhibit a range of coat colors from black to various shades of brown, and they are omnivorous, feeding on a diet that includes berries, nuts, insects, and occasionally small mammals.

Mountain Coati

Conservation Status: Endangered
The coati is a medium-sized mammal belonging to the raccoon family, Procyonidae, native to the Americas. Recognized for its long, ringed tail, slender snout, and a distinctive facial mask, coatis are omnivores known for their agility, social behavior, and ability to forage on the forest floor and in trees.

Donkey

Conservation Status: Common in U.S., Endangered elswhere
The donkey is a domesticated equine. It derives from the African wild ass, Equus africanus, and may be classified either as a subspecies thereof, Equus africanus asinus, or as a separate species, Equus asinus.

Red River Hog

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Red River Hog, scientifically known as Potamochoerus porcus, is a striking wild pig native to the rainforests and swamps of West and Central Africa. Identified by its distinctive reddish-brown coat, white face markings, and long tufted ears, these social and omnivorous hogs are known for their strong familial bonds and are primarily active during the night.

Dromedary

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The dromedary, also known as the Arabian camel (Camelus dromedarius), is a large, single-humped camel native to arid regions of the Middle East and Northern Africa. Recognized for its distinctive one hump, these hardy mammals have been domesticated for centuries, serving as important pack animals, sources of milk, and reliable transportation in harsh desert environments.

Reticulated Giraffe

Conservation Status: Endangered
The Reticulated Giraffe, a subspecies of Giraffa camelopardalis, is easily identified by its striking coat pattern of sharp-edged, interconnected polygons, resembling a net or a chessboard. Native to the Horn of Africa, particularly in Kenya and Ethiopia, these giraffes exhibit the classic long neck and legs, allowing them to reach high branches for their herbivorous diet in acacia-rich environments.

Huacaya Alpaca

Conservation Status: Vulnerable
The Huacaya Alpaca is a domesticated South American camelid known for its fluffy and dense fleece, which grows perpendicular to its body, creating a soft, teddy bear-like appearance. Raised for their luxurious fiber, these social and gentle animals are valued for their endearing personalities and the high-quality wool they contribute to the textile industry.

Whitetail Deer

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Whitetail Deer, scientifically named Odocoileus virginianus, is a common and widely distributed species of deer native to North and South America. Identified by its namesake white underside of the tail, these medium-sized herbivores are known for their graceful leaps and are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and suburban areas.

Chinese Muntjac

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Chinese Muntjac, scientifically known as Muntiacus reevesi, is a small and elusive deer species native to Southeast Asia, including regions of China. Recognized for its reddish-brown coat, short antlers, and distinctive facial markings, the Chinese Muntjac is known for its secretive behavior and adapts well to diverse environments, from dense forests to cultivated landscapes.

Giraffe

Conservation Status: Endangered
The giraffe, scientifically known as Giraffa camelopardalis, is an iconic African mammal recognized for its towering height, distinctive spotted coat, and long neck. With its prehensile tongue and unique adaptations for reaching high branches, the giraffe is not only the world's tallest land animal but also an extraordinary herbivore adapted to life on the savannah.

Domestic Goats

Conservation Status: Recovering
The goat or domestic goat is a domesticated species of goat-antelope typically kept as livestock. It was domesticated from the wild goat of Southwest Asia and Eastern Europe. The goat is a member of the animal family Bovidae and the tribe Caprini, meaning it is closely related to the sheep.

Domestic Sheep

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
Sheep or domestic sheep are a domesticated, ruminant mammal typically kept as livestock. Although the term sheep can apply to other species in the genus Ovis, in everyday usage it almost always refers to domesticated sheep. Like all ruminants, sheep are members of the order Artiodactyla, the even-toed ungulates

Ostrich

Conservation Status: Not Threatened
The ostrich, scientifically known as Struthio camelus, is the world's largest and heaviest bird, native to Africa. Renowned for its long legs, powerful running ability, and distinctive featherless neck and head, the ostrich is not only a flightless bird but also known for being the fastest runner among birds, reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour.

Silkie Bantam Chicken

Conservation Status: Not Threatened
The Silkie Bantam Chicken is a small and distinctive breed known for its unique fluffy plumage, silky feathers, and gentle disposition. Originating in China, Silkies are prized for their ornamental value and are often kept as backyard pets for their friendly nature and distinctive appearance, including their characteristic crest of feathers on the head.

Golden Pheasant

Conservation Status: Not Threatened
The Golden Pheasant, also known as the Chinese Pheasant or "fireback," is a striking and vibrantly colored bird native to the mountainous regions of western China. Renowned for its dazzling plumage, featuring a cascade of golden, red, green, and blue feathers, the male Golden Pheasant is particularly noted for its stunning and ornate appearance.

Chinese Goose

Conservation Status: Not Threatened
The Chinese Goose is a domesticated waterfowl breed originating from China, known for its distinctive appearance with a knob or "caruncle" on its bill and a graceful, upright posture. Often raised for its meat, eggs, and as an ornamental bird, the Chinese Goose is recognized for its amiable temperament and adaptability to various climates.

Mute Swan

Conservation Status: Not threatened
The Mute Swan, scientifically known as Cygnus olor, is a large and elegant waterfowl native to Europe and Asia but introduced to other parts of the world. Recognized for its graceful neck, snowy-white plumage, and striking orange bill, Mute Swans are often found in lakes, rivers, and ponds, adding a touch of regality to their aquatic habitats.

Mandarin Duck

Conservation Status: Not Threatened
The Mandarin Duck, scientifically known as Aix galericulata, is a small and vibrantly colored duck native to East Asia. Renowned for its stunning and intricate plumage, featuring ornate patterns of orange, blue, green, and white, the Mandarin Duck is celebrated for its beauty and is often considered one of the world's most aesthetically pleasing waterfowl species.

Guira Cuckoo

Conservation Status: Not Threatened
The Guira Cuckoo, scientifically known as Guira guira, is a distinctive bird found in South America, known for its unique appearance and social behavior. Recognized for its striking rufous coloration, long tail, and a distinctive curved bill, these cuckoos are often seen in groups and are known for their loud, chattering calls and cooperative breeding habits.

Laughing Kookaburra

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Laughing Kookaburra, scientifically named Dacelo novaeguineae, is a large and iconic bird native to Australia. Renowned for its distinctive "laughing" call, these kingfishers are recognized by their striking plumage, sturdy build, and are often found perched in trees or on utility wires, where they hunt for insects, small mammals, and reptiles.

Eclectus Parrot

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Eclectus Parrot, scientifically known as Eclectus roratus, is a visually stunning parrot species native to the rainforests of Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and the Solomon Islands. Notable for its striking sexual dimorphism, with males displaying vibrant emerald green plumage and females adorned in deep red and purple, the Eclectus Parrot is prized as a captivating and highly intelligent companion bird.

Macaw

Conservation Status: Endangered
Macaws are vibrant and large parrots belonging to the Psittacidae family, known for their striking plumage, powerful beaks, and long tails. Renowned for their intelligence and social nature, macaws are popular as pets and are native to the rainforests of Central and South America, where their bright colors and loud calls make them a charismatic presence in the wild.

Nanday Parakeet

Conservation Status: Not Endangered
The Nanday Parakeet, scientifically known as Aratinga nenday, is a medium-sized parrot native to South America, particularly found in parts of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. Recognized for its predominantly green plumage, black facial mask, and vibrant blue and red highlights, the Nanday Parakeet is a lively and social bird often seen in flocks, displaying a range of playful behaviors and distinct vocalizations.

Yellow Headed Amazon

Conservation Status: Endangered
The Yellow-headed Amazon, scientifically named Amazona oratrix, is a striking parrot species native to Central America, particularly found in Mexico and parts of Guatemala. Renowned for its bright yellow head, green body, and playful demeanor, these intelligent and social birds are sought after as companion animals, known for their ability to mimic human speech and their engaging personalities.

Hawk Headed Parrot

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Hawk-headed Parrot, scientifically known as Deroptyus accipitrinus, is a unique and visually striking parrot native to the rainforests of South America. Characterized by its distinctive appearance with a crested head resembling a hawk, this medium-sized parrot species is known for its expressive facial markings, playful nature, and its ability to imitate various sounds.

Pied Crow

Conservation Status: Least Concern
The pied crow is a widely distributed African bird species in the crow genus of the family Corvidae. Structurally, the pied crow is better thought of as a small crow-sized raven, especially as it can hybridise with the Somali crow where their ranges meet in the Horn of Africa.

Taveta Golden Weaver

Conservation Status: Least Concern
The Taveta Golden Weaver, scientifically known as Ploceus castaneiceps, is a small and vibrantly colored bird native to East Africa, particularly found in Kenya and Tanzania. Recognized for its striking yellow and black plumage, with a distinctive chestnut-colored crown, this weaver bird is known for its intricate nest-building skills, creating elaborate hanging nests from grass and other plant fibers.

Eurasian Eagle Owl

Conservation Status: Least Concern
The Eurasian eagle-owl is a species of eagle-owl that resides in much of Eurasia. It is also called the Uhu and it is occasionally abbreviated to just the eagle-owl in Europe.

African Grey birds

Conservation Status: Endangered
The grey parrot, also known as the Congo grey parrot, Congo African grey parrot or African grey parrot, is an Old World parrot in the family Psittacidae. The Timneh parrot once was identified as a subspecies of the grey parrot, but has since been elevated to a full species.

Featured Animals

Eastern Hellbender

Eastern Box Turtle

Conservation Status: Vulnerable
The Eastern Box Turtle, scientifically named Terrapene carolina carolina, is a land-dwelling turtle native to the eastern United States. Recognized for its distinctive hinged shell that allows it to completely close itself inside, the Eastern Box Turtle is a terrestrial species found in a variety of habitats, from woodlands to open fields.

Panamanian Golden Frog

Eastern Box Turtle

Puerto Rican Crested Toad

Eastern Box Turtle

Branding

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Branding

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Eastern Box Turtle

Three Toed Box Turtle

Conservation Status: Vulnerable
Terrapene carolina triunguis, commonly known as the Three-toed Box Turtle, is a subspecies of the Eastern Box Turtle native to the southeastern United States. Distinguished by its domed carapace, three toes on each hind foot, and a vibrant range of shell colors, these terrestrial turtles are known for their unique appearance and are often found in various woodland and grassland habitats.

Yellow Footed Tortoise

Conservation Status: Vulnerable
The Yellow-footed Tortoise, scientifically named Chelonoidis denticulatus, is a large and robust tortoise species native to South America, particularly found in the Amazon rainforest and surrounding regions. Recognized for its distinctive yellow scales on its limbs, neck, and head, these herbivorous tortoises play a crucial role in the ecosystem by shaping the vegetation in their habitat and are sought after for their captivating appearance in the pet trade.

Inland Bearded Dragon

Conservation Status: Least Concered
The Inland Bearded Dragon, scientifically known as Pogona vitticeps, is a popular reptile species native to Australia, known for its striking appearance and calm demeanor. Recognized for the "beard" of spiky scales under its throat that it can puff up and change color, these diurnal lizards are often kept as pets due to their docile nature and vibrant patterns.

Rhinoceros Iguana

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered
The Rhinoceros Iguana, scientifically known as Cyclura cornuta, is a large and distinctive lizard species native to the Caribbean, particularly found on the islands of Hispaniola and Haiti. Recognized for its robust build, horn-like structures on its snout, and intricate body markings, these herbivorous iguanas are critically endangered and are known for their crucial role in maintaining ecological balance on their native islands.

Cuba Caymans Iguana

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered
The Cuban Rock Iguana, scientifically known as Cyclura nubila, is a large lizard species native to the rocky habitats of Cuba and the Isle of Youth. Recognized for its impressive size, robust build, and distinctively spiky appearance, these herbivorous iguanas play a crucial role in their ecosystems and are subject to conservation efforts due to their declining populations.

Desert Iguana

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Desert Iguana, scientifically named Dipsosaurus dorsalis, is a medium-sized lizard species native to the arid regions of North America, particularly found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Adapted to desert environments, these iguanas are characterized by their tan to light brown coloration, streamlined bodies, and excellent thermoregulatory behaviors, allowing them to thrive in the harsh conditions of their habitat.

Green Iguana

Conservation Status: Not Endangered
The Green Iguana, scientifically known as Iguana iguana, is a large and vibrant lizard native to Central and South America. Renowned for its striking green coloration, robust body, and distinctive dorsal crest of spines, these herbivorous iguanas are often kept as pets but are also found in their natural habitats, ranging from tropical rainforests to coastal areas.

New Guinea Blue-Tongue Skink

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The New Guinea Blue-Tongue Skink, scientifically known as Tiliqua gigas, is a distinctive reptile species native to the islands of New Guinea and surrounding regions. Recognized for its robust body, dark markings, and vibrant blue tongue, these skinks are ground-dwelling omnivores, known for their unique appearance and are kept as fascinating pets in the reptile hobbyist community.

Spiny Tailed Monitor

Conservation Status: Not Clear, but thought to be abundant
The Spiny-tailed Monitor, scientifically known as Varanus acanthurus, is a medium-sized lizard species native to northern Australia. Renowned for its distinctive spiky tail, strong claws, and striking patterns, these monitors are skilled climbers and foragers, adapted to various habitats, from woodlands to rocky outcrops.

Spotted Python

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Spotted Python, scientifically named Antaresia maculosa, is a small and nonvenomous snake native to Australia. Recognized for its striking appearance with a pattern of dark spots on a light background, these pythons are popular in the reptile trade and are appreciated as relatively manageable pets, given their moderate size and docile temperament.

Woma Python

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered
The Woma Python, scientifically known as Aspidites ramsayi, is a medium-sized snake native to arid regions of Australia. Recognized for its distinctive head markings, slender body, and nonvenomous nature, the Woma Python is popular among reptile enthusiasts as a captivating and manageable pet.

Royal Ball Python

Conservation Status: Near Threatened
The Royal Ball Python, scientifically named Python regius, is a small and popular snake species native to West and Central Africa. Renowned for its calm demeanor, distinctive color patterns, and ball-like defensive posture, these pythons are highly sought after in the reptile trade and are often kept as pets for their manageable size and docile nature.

Central American Boa

Conservation Status: Least Concerned
The Central American Boa, scientifically known as Boa imperator, is a large and robust snake species found in various habitats across Central America. Recognized for its impressive size, distinctive markings, and wide range of color variations, these boas are appreciated by reptile enthusiasts for their striking appearance and are often kept as pets in the exotic pet trade.

Brown Rainbow Boa

Conservation Status: Threatened
The Epicrates maurus, commonly known as the Dominican Red Mountain Boa, is a medium to large-sized snake species native to the Caribbean, particularly found in the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Recognized for its beautiful coloration, varying from shades of red and brown, these boas are appreciated by reptile enthusiasts and are occasionally kept as pets for their unique and captivating appearance.

Yellow Anaconda

Conservation Status: Not Evaluated
The Yellow Anaconda, scientifically known as Eunectes notaeus, is a large and powerful snake species native to South America, specifically found in the swamps and waterways of the Amazon and Orinoco River basins. Renowned for its robust build and distinct yellowish-brown coloration, these anacondas are semi-aquatic predators, known for their ability to constrict prey and their preference for aquatic habitats.

Emperor Scorpion

Conservation Status: CITES Appendix
The emperor scorpion, Pandinus imperator, is a species of scorpion native to rainforests and savannas in West Africa. It is one of the largest scorpions in the world and lives for 6–8 years. Its body is black, but like other scorpions it glows pastel green or blue under ultraviolet light.

Important Roles

One of the most important roles of a zookeeper is to educate….to teach compassion for animals and to enlighten the public not just about our zoo animals, but about the treasured and vital role all creatures play in our natural world.

Every day we witness the awe and delight animals bring to visitors who have never seen a lynx up close, taken a stroll with an African crane or touched an endangered lemur.

And in every animal encounter, whether it’s at the zoo or a special community event, we see firsthand how infinitely curious and eager people of all ages are to learn more about these fascinating creatures.

Our animals help remind us of the conservation efforts we must continually undertake to protect the Earth’s species and their habitats.

Explore The Zoo

education & conservation

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Events At Zoo

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Reviews

5 Over 6 Reviews

Write a Review

Chad Riehle 6 months ago

Always a must when in Gulf Shores!

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brittny92 6 months ago

We have never been to this zoo, and it sure is the “Little Zoo that Could!” We are on a family vacation with 4 children 5 and under. They all had fun and were so excited to see all the animals. We arrived right at 9am and all the animals were ready to show off!

We even got to watch the keepers interacting and providing enrichment which was such a cool experience. You can tell the workers loved the animals and are really dedicated to the care and treatment of the animals.

It took us around 2-2.5 hours to go around the whole zoo so it won’t be a full day trip, but it will definitely be a wonderful stop to make on your trip to Gulf Shores!

Thomas Crowley 6 months ago

While visiting Orange Beach decided to visit the local zoo. What a great place, helpful employees who did a lot of explaining of animals feeding. It was a great walk. A great day. All the animals are very interesting and especially loved the herb garden..

Lynette Keith 7 months ago

I’ve been bringing my children here since they were little and now I’m bringing my grandchildren. I love our little zoo. It’s not too big and by the time the kiddos are wore out, we are all done. Everyone is so hospitable and kind. Cute gift shop and love feeding Ben the giraffe.

bethany Barlow 8 months ago

We loved our visit! Such an affordable option for a zoo. Plenty of animals to see. Loved how close you get to all of them. Very clean and tidy. Disappointed the tigers weren’t out though. But overall a fantastic experience! Our kids loved it.

Julia Anne 9 months ago

Such a beautiful zoo! Very clean with ample restrooms and benches. There were so many animals to see which was very unexpected. We saw tigers, lyons, monkeys, giraffes, lemurs, many types of local birds, etc. For an extra fee, you can feed the giraffes and have an opportunity to get up close and personal with several different zoo animals.

There is a great little enclosed bird area with turtles where you can sit and watch the birds. They also have a great gift shop with wonderful gift items.

Overall, it was a wonderful experience. We had a great time watching the animals and will definitely be back!

Open Daily 9 am – 4 pm

Education • Conservation • Adventure • Community

Open Daily 9 am to 4 pm

Meet Our Animals

Meet Our Animals

Our Animals

118 species, 22 critically endangered species.

Virginia Opossum

Conservation Status: Least Concern

Southern Three-banded Armadillo

Conservation Status: Near Threatened

Linne's Two-toed Sloth

Conservation Status: Least Concern

Brown Lemur

Conservation Status: Least Concern

Ring Tailed Lemur

Conservation Status: Endangered

Red Ruffed Lemur

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered

Black and White Ruffed Lemur

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered

Cotton Top Tamarin

Conservation Status: critically Endangered

Capuchins

Conservation Status: Critically Endangeredl

Squirrel Monkey

Conservation Status: Least Endangered

Coppery Titi Monkey

Conservation Status: Least Concerned

African Crested Porcupine

Conservation Status: Least Concerned

Hamadryas Baboon

Conservation Status: Least Concerned

Colombian Black Spider Monkey

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered

Prehensile-tailed Porcupine

Conservation Status: Least Concerned

Chinchilla

Conservation Status: Least Concerned

Patagonian Mara

Conservation Status:Critically Endangered

Capybara

Conservation Status: Least Concerned

Flemish Giant Rabbit

Conservation Status: Critically Concerned

Serval

Conservation Status: Least Concerned

Eurasian Lynx

Conservation Status:Least Concerned

Bobcat

Conservation Status: Least Concerned

Clouded Leopard

Conservation Status: Vulnerable

Lion

Conservation Status:Vulnerable

Gray Wolf

Conservation Status:Critically Concerned

New Guinea singing dog

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered

North American Black Bear

Conservation Status: Critically Concerned

Mountain Coati

Conservation Status: Endangered

Donkey

Conservation Status: Common in U.S., Endangered elswhere

Red River Hog

Conservation Status: Least Concerned

Dromedary

Conservation Status: Least Concerned

Reticulated Giraffe

Conservation Status: Endangered

Huacaya Alpaca

Conservation Status: Vulnerable

Whitetail Deer

Conservation Status: Least Concerned

Chinese Muntjac

Conservation Status: Least Concerned

Giraffe

Conservation Status: Endangered

Domestic Goats