Animals

At any given time, about 800 animals of more than 200 species make their homes at the Birmingham Zoo, including 80 species of birds, 80 of reptiles, and 60 mammals. For a current list of all species in our collection, see our Animal List.

Animals are cared for daily by a dedicated staff of curators, zoological managers and keepers at the Birmingham Zoo. These professionals provide well maintained environments that reflect their natural habitats. They also work hard "enriching" animals' lives to make life more interesting and less predictable. Keepers may place food inside "puzzles" for animals, spread an unusual scent in a habitat, or train animals in new behavior as a form of enrichment.

Our Animal Nutrition Center prepares balanced diets for animals in the collection and our Animal Health Center provides expert veterinary care.

In accordance with Association of Zoos & Aquariums Species Survival Plans, animals may be sent to and from other zoos to manage the genetic viability of designated captive animal populations.

All photographs on Birmingham Zoo are of animals in their habitats at the Birmingham Zoo.