Birmingham Zoo
The zoo is open every day of the year and features three major biomes: the Tropic Zone, Temperate Territory, and the Polar Circle. From tropical birds, to snow leopards, grizzly bears, and one of the nation’s largest colonies of Antarctic penguins, there are animals to enjoy in every season.
Opening 2021!
Bears
Did you know that a bear's closest relative is the seal? Or that bears can smell over 2,000 times better than humans?
Tiger Facts
- Tigers are the largest cat species in the world reaching up to 3.3 meters in length and weighing up to 670 pounds!
- Tigers are easily recognizable with their dark vertical stripes and reddish/orange fur.
- The Bengal tiger is the most common tiger.
- Tigers live between 20-26 years in the wild.
- Unlike most other cats, tigers are great swimmers and actually like the water.
Giraffe
Giraffes are the world's tallest mammals, thanks to their towering legs and long necks. A giraffe's legs alone are taller than many humans—about 6 feet . These long legs allow giraffes to run as fast as 35 miles an hour over short distances and cruise comfortably at 10 miles an hour over longer distances.
Behavior
Typically, these fascinating animals roam the open grasslands in small groups of about half a dozen.
Bulls sometimes battle one another by butting their long necks and heads. Such contests aren't usually dangerous and end when one animal submits and walks away.
Height and Size
Giraffes use their height to good advantage and browse on leaves and buds in treetops that few other animals can reach (acacias are a favorite). Even the giraffe's tongue is long! The 21-inch tongue helps them pluck tasty morsels from branches. Giraffes eat most of the time and, like cows, regurgitate food and chew it as cud. A giraffe eats hundreds of pounds of leaves each week and must travel miles to find enough food.
lion
- Lifespan: 10–14 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivity
- Length: Males: 1.8–2.1 m (body) + 0.9–1.0 m (tail); Females: 1.6–1.8 m (body) + 0.6–0.9 m (tail)
- Geographic Range: Sub-Saharan Africa; small populations in India (Asiatic lion).
- Hunting: Primarily by females; cooperative hunting increases success rate.
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Explore our activities, videos, and lesson plans to support a wide range of curriculum topics
Are there any benefits or discounts for members?
There are AMAZING benefits of becoming a member with Birmingham Zoo! Our members get special discounts in our shops, cafes, and unlimited entry