The Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium is one of the most progressive wildlife facilities in the country. If you’re looking to view some diverse wildlife and learn about their habits and importance in nature in an ethical setting, this facility is one of the best available options. Not only is their collection extensive and diverse, the Zoo also promotes environmental conservation and houses their creatures in far more ethical conditions compared to zoos of the past. Our Pittsburgh adoption agents love the following aspects of this zoo and aquarium:
Animals At The Zoo
The Pittsburgh Zoo is home to hundreds of species of plants and animals, which you and your family can view and learn about during your visit. Some of our favorites from our most recent visit included:
- Aldabra Tortoise
- American Beaver
- Amur Tiger
- Barn Owl
- Cheetah
- Flamingo
- Black Rhinoceros
- Kunekune Pig
- Polar Bear
- Giraffe
Wild Encounters
The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium offers private tours for groups of up to six people. If you don’t like crowds or you’d like to have a more intimate educational experience at the zoos, these tours are great options. Not all tours are available year-round due to conditions like mating, molting, weather, and more. Some specific examples of these tours include:
- Penguin Encounter – The penguin encounter is available from October through March. It’s about 30 minutes long and your family will have the opportunity to meet the penguins, pose for photos with them, and learn all about their lifestyles from their keeper and guide.
- Reptiles – During the reptile encounter, the keeper and guide will teach your group how to use tools to handle live reptiles. You’ll also have some opportunities for up close and personal photos with the reptile collection. These tours last about 30 minutes and guests must be at least 10 years old to participate.
- Sharks – The PPG Aquarium holds a variety of sharks from the Indo-Pacific, and their sharks tour allows guests to get a close view of them while being guided by an aquarist. You can learn how these majestic creatures are cared for in the zoo and the important role they play in the wild.
Penguins on Parade
During the winter months, zoo visitors have the opportunity to visit penguins outside of the PPG Aquarium. The penguins if and for how long they’ll go outside and the weather must be below 45 degrees Fahrenheit for them to be safe outdoors. Since this could be anywhere from 10-30 minutes, we recommend getting their early so you don’t miss the action.
Jungle Odyssey
Jungle Odyssey is the newest exhibit at the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium. You can take a journey into a simulated jungle and witness a variety of tropical wildlife, including:
- Ocelots
- Fossas
- Capybaras
- Anteaters
- Bobbing Pygmy Hippos
Entry to Jungle Odyssey is included with General Admission.
Conservation Program
The Zoo and Aquarium’s Conservation Program supports efforts to keep our planet and wildlife healthy and in-tact. They do this by promoting both global and local conservation efforts, including initiatives like:
- African Aquatic Conservation Fund in Western Africa
- Alaska SeaLife Center
- Bioenergetics of Big Cats in the USA and Kenya
- Coral Conservation in the USA and across the Globe
- International Elephant Foundation
These are just a handful of examples from the dozens of programs of which the Zoo is involved.
