There is no other zoo or aquarium in the Pacific Northwest that combines the two like Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. The 29-acre site is part of Point Defiance Park in Tacoma, Washington. Approximately 3,677 different species of animals call this institution home. An aquarium was added to the zoo in 1963, after it had already been established in 1905. Over 600,000 people visit each year, thanks to Metro Parks Tacoma. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) has accredited it, meaning that it provides excellent care for animals and is committed to conservation efforts.
Children may learn about wildlife protection and have fun interacting with animals in the Kids’ Zone. In this area, you can see Parma wallabies, Nigerian dwarf goats, and other animals. A variety of lemurs, including ring-tailed, black-and-white, and meerkat varieties, can be seen in the Animal Avenue display. Supervised feeding sessions are another option for children. The layout promotes discovery and practical experience in the classroom.
Plants from all over the world, including the Baja Peninsula and Alaska, are on display at the Point Defiance Zoo Botanical Garden, which is home to more than fifty varieties of bamboo. The Asian Forest Sanctuary and the Desert Garden are just two of the themed gardens that visitors can explore. Learn about eco-friendly gardening techniques on monthly tours led by the zoo’s horticulturist.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium |
| Location | Tacoma, Washington, USA |
| Founded | Zoo: 1905, Aquarium: 1935 (relocated in 1963) |
| Owned By | Metro Parks Tacoma |
| Acreage | 29 acres |
| Number of Animals | 9,000+ specimens |
| Number of Species | 367 |
| Annual Visitors | 600,000+ |
| Accreditation | Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) |
| Key Attractions | Kids’ Zone, Animal Avenue, Tide Pool, Red Wolf Conservation, Sumatran Tiger Breeding Program |
| Website | Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium Official Website |
Famous Displays and Points of Interest
In the Artificial Tide Pool, guests may get their hands dirty with real marine creatures. A natural habitat for these endangered penguins is recreated at the Magellanic Penguin Habitat. Visitors can feed and pet budgies that are free to fly around in a seasonal exhibit. A splash of bright color is added to the zoo experience by the free roaming Indian peafowls.
Red Wolf Rehabilitation Initiative
The Red Wolf Recovery Program is a leading conservation initiative at the zoo. The role of PDZA in the fight to preserve the species began in 1969. The last red wolf was officially pronounced dead in the wild in 1980. In 1987, wolves were returned to their native habitat after a successful breeding effort at the zoo. Right now, there are around 100 wild wolves and 175 in captivity.
Breeding Program for Sumatran Tigers
One of PDZA’s main goals is protecting the Sumatran tiger, an endangered species. Every step counts because there are less than 400 wild tigers left. A female tiger unfortunately passed away in 2021 during a breeding effort. In spite of obstacles, the zoo is determined to use ethical breeding techniques to guarantee the species’ survival.
Educational Programs and the Visitor Experience
PDZA has a strong emphasis on education by means of guided tours, workshops, and interactive kiosks. Sharing data on sustainable practices, environment protection, and animal behavior is the goal of these technologies. Reusing water, computerized X-rays, and intraoral cameras for vet care are some of the eco-friendly systems that the zoo has implemented.
Tips for Visiting Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
- Stay Hydrated: Use refill stations with reusable bottles.
- Arrive Early: Ensure enough time to visit all exhibits.
- Event Schedules: Check feeding times and special programs.
- Comfortable Attire: Wear walking shoes.
- Support Conservation: Donate or adopt an animal virtually.
Sustainability Initiatives and Environmental Consciousness
The mission of PDZA revolves around sustainability. The impact on the environment is diminished by the zoo’s use of renewable energy systems and environmentally conscious infrastructure. Guests are urged to embrace eco-friendly practices and lessen their reliance on disposable plastics.
Fun Things to Do for the Whole Family
A warm and inviting environment awaits families at the zoo. People of all ages will be able to enjoy the facilities. For the enjoyment and enlightenment of younger visitors, there is the Kids’ Zone and Animal Avenue.
Price and Entry Specifics
Season, age, and membership status determine ticket pricing. Groups, members of the armed forces, and elderly are eligible for discounts. Alternatively, guests can purchase an annual membership that grants them unlimited access.
A Unique Selling Point of the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
Education, conservation, and leisure all come together at PDZA, making it more than just a zoo. It differs from conventional zoos in that it exhibits both land and water creatures. Zoos all across the world look up to PDZA as an example of how to properly care for animals while also protecting the environment.
For more information, visit the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium Official Website.
