Jacksonville Zoo

Jacksonville Zoo is the largest Zoo between Atlanta and Orlando occupying over 110 acres of land and with many animals on show. The Zoo participates in many conservation projects, notably in Guyana. The Zoo first opened in 1925 and udnerwent a huge redevelopment in 1992. My aunt likes to visit the Zoo every year to see whats changed and she always finds she enjoys it more with every passing year. There is such a variety of wonderful animals to see - over 2,000 rare and exotic animals and over 1,500 plant species so its a nature fanatics haven. The Zoo is currently undergoing some minor building work to make way for its Asian Gardens due to open next yera according to the tour guide. Some of the animals living at the Zoo include many types of primates including Gorillas, Bonobos and even tiny little monkeys no smaller than a hand whos name has escaped me.. There is a small aviary that I really enjoyed, i held out some sugar water in a smal ltub for the Lorikeets to drink and I had 4 of them on my arm and I have some great photos. Other notable animals to look out for include; alligators (very scary!) elephants, cheetahs, panthers, otters (my favourite animal), eagles and koala bears. The entrance fee for the zoo is $12 and its also a good idea to buy the Zoo train ticket which costs $3 and gives you a guided audio tour by fun train of the entire Zoo and its inhabitants. Jacksonville Zoo is well worth a visit and is a great day out for all. Its probably also a good idea to bring along some food and water as the restaurants and shops there are a little pricy.

Visited the JAX Zoo and all the animals were taking naps, which is really a rarity at this zoo.

Go Figure!

Update
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As with most Zoological Parks, the main attraction is the animals. However, to me it is also how the park is laid out and the exhibits are presented. The JAX Zoo accomodates both of these criteria very well.

The Zoo is laid out in what are called walking circles (see map here: http://www.jaxzoo.org/visit/maps.asp )and around natural presentation settings. It feels as if you are visiting the natural habitat of the animals. Interactions feel up-close and personal.

Each walking loop is independent in its exhibit focusing on a particular Continent: Africa, South America, Australia etc. Each circle starts and ends on the main Zoo or 'camp' path.

There are quite a few additional programs offered at the Zoo as well:

Gardening Glasses
After Dark Programs - Parent Child Sleepovers
Home School Programs
Day Camps
Pre-School Programs
Behind The Scenes Tours
Keeper Talks


Food and Rest Areas
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There is plenty of opportunity to eat and rest along the way. The food was average price, and of decent quality. There is also a new very large and expansive kids play area that only has one way in and one way out so you can keep an eye on your kids.

Access and Parking
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You can access the park from the main entrance with plenty of free parking and also via boat from the Saint Johns River. If you bring access the Zoo via the river there is currenly no admission price.