Ever been curious about where San Francisco keeps its wild side? That’s where the San Francisco Zoo comes into play. It is a sprawling 100-acre home to over a thousand animals. They represent more than 250 species.
Originally, this place was called the Fleishhacker Zoo. It was named after Herbert Fleishhacker. He was a banker and the president of the San Francisco Parks Commission. Planning began in 1929. The site was next to Fleishhacker Pool. It was once the largest swimming pool in the U.S.
The San Francisco Zoo officially opened its doors in 1929. It quickly became a landmark. In the 1930s, exhibits cost about $3.5 million. These included Monkey Island and Lion House. Elephant House and a small mammal grotto were also constructed. An aviary and bear grottos rounded out the new exhibits. These were spacious exhibits. They were among the first bar-less designs in the country.
In 1955, kids sent pennies to buy a baby Asian elephant. Her name was Pennie. In 2004, the San Francisco Zoo’s last Asian elephant was moved to a sanctuary. Her name was Tinkerbelle.
The San Francisco Zoo has faced challenges. There has been scrutiny over safety and animal care. In 2007, a tiger escaped. It attacked visitors. Tanya Peterson became the director in 2008.
The San Francisco Zoo participates in conservation. It works to conserve species. These range from tortoises to giraffes. They include black rhinos and gorillas. In 2017, two orphaned black bear cubs from Alaska found a new home. The San Francisco Zoo stepped in. A habitat was repurposed for them.
Today, the San Francisco Zoo continues to evolve. It introduces exhibit renovations. The Leanne B. Roberts African Savanna is a major highlight. Here you can observe giraffes and zebras. Penguin Island remains a favorite. It showcases the playful antics of these aquatic birds. The Lipman Family Lemur Forest is home to various lemur species.
As you stroll through the San Francisco Zoo, remember Koko the gorilla. The San Francisco Zoo was her birthplace. From 1974 to 2016, Elly lived here. She was the oldest black rhinoceros in North America. In April 2024, San Francisco Zoo announced that Giant Panda Bears will arrive from China soon.
The San Francisco Zoo is more than just a place to see animals. It’s a center for conservation. It’s an educational institution. It is a testament to San Francisco’s commitment to wildlife. So, come explore. Discover the wild heart of San Francisco. Experience the wonders of the animal kingdom. The San Francisco Zoo awaits.