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The Greater Vancouver Zoo Is Like The African Savannah Of Western Canada

Greater Vancouver Zoo

Photo: Greater Vancouver Zoo

There is an abundance of wildlife in British Columbia; however, the Greater Vancouver Zoo in Aldergrove showcases a greater diversity of land animals than anywhere else in the province.

It offers a wild retreat from day-to-day to life, and is the closest thing to an African Savannah in the province. What’s more, the grounds are home to many rescued, donated and orphaned animals.

For children, a day at the zoo is a grand adventure. They get to observe an array of fascinating wildlife up close and personal, and learn about them as they do. Further, a visit to the grounds can foster curiosity in youngsters. What’s more, learning about the animals in-person encourages them to care about wildlife. It’s an experience they won’t soon forget!

Greater Vancouver Zoo
Photo: Greater Vancouver Zoo

The zoo is celebrating its 48th anniversary in August, and there’s never been a better time to catch one of its exciting shows. The zoo has a variety of daily animal shows, and they are as thrilling as they are informative.

For instance, the Fabulous Felines presentation provides guests with an opportunity to watch the lions get fed from their handlers while learning all about the majestic beasts. Between their growls and leaps, this is a show you won’t want to miss!

The Animals

Greater Vancouver Zoo
Photo: Kenny Tai / 604 Now

Of course, the animals are the main attraction. Specifically, the zoo holds amphibians, mammals, reptiles, birds, insects, arachnids and fish. With over 140 species on the park’s 120 acres, they are incredibly diverse.

The Greater Vancouver Zoo works with the community to ensure the preservation of native species in local ecosystems. For example, the Pacific Coast Population of the Western Painted Turtle are listed as endangered. The zoo is working to prevent  this incredible species from the brink of extinction with an ambitious program that has been recognized with the Peter Karsten Conservation Award.

Greater Vancouver Zoo
Photo: Kenny Tai / 604 Now

“Currently, we have a “Northern” Red-legged Frog that is native to British Columbia. Although she is a female, her name is Richard. This is because it is difficult to confirm the sex of amphibians when they are young. She was discovered in the wild as a tadpole, because she was abnormally red. Due to her bright colour, she would have been snatched up by a predator. Here at the zoo, she’s reached full maturity. This exceptionally red colour is due to a type of albinism; however, rather than becoming white, the red pigment is highlighted.”

Greater Vancouver Zoo
Photo: Kenny Tai / 604 Now

Visitors may spot anything from slender, pink flamingos balancing on one leg to powerful, statuesque ostriches with wingspans of up to seven feet!

Greater Vancouver Zoo
Photo: Kenny Tai / 604 Now

In addition to birds, a litany of other impressive animals call the grounds home. For example, the Siberian tiger is the largest cat in the world, with mature males weighing up to 800 pounds; these gorgeous felines wow guests with their fierce, commanding presence.

“Hannah, the resident female Siberian tiger, is from a zoo in Seoul, Korea. Since tigers are solitary creatures, she can’t have another tiger in her enclosure. In fact, most big cats are solitary, with African Lions being the only exception.”

Another awe-inspiring creature is the South American capybara. Capybaras are the largest rodents in the world, and are most closely related to guinea pigs. Although they are part of the rodent family, the males bark like dogs to assert their dominance. They are also excellent swimmers, and may even travel in packs of up to 100!

The zoo also houses giraffes, common elands, black and white ruffed lemurs, hippopotamuses, pythons, and many other magnificent animals.

Greater Vancouver Zoo
Photo: Greater Vancouver Zoo

Celebrate the Wild

Greater Vancouver Zoo
Photo: Kenny Tai / 604 Now

Guests can enjoy a number of unique experiences at the zoo. For instance, they can immerse themselves in an evening or a sleepover in the wild. They may also have birthday parties, corporate events, and much more.

Wild Party includes:

  • Daily admission for 10 children and 2 adults
  • 2-3 hours with a party host
  • Gift for the birthday child
  • Animalasium Learning Centre rental*
  • 1 special activity of your choice**
  • pizza or hot dogs and beverages
Greater Vancouver Zoo
Photo: Kenny Tai / 604 Now

Whatever the occasion, the Greater Vancouver Zoo is an exciting way to learn about fascinating animals and support conservation efforts. 

Greater Vancouver Zoo

Address: 5048 – 264th Street Aldergrove

Summer Hours: April 1st – September 30th: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Winter Hours: October 1st – March 31st: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Parking: Pay parking is a $6.00 flat rate.

Admission:

Adult (18-64) $25.50
Senior (65+) $19.50
Student (18+ with ID) $23.50
Child (3-17) $19.50
Children 2 and under Free
Family (2 adults, 3 children) $82.50

This is a branded post paid for by our advertising partner. To learn more about the Greater Vancouver Zoo, please visit gvzoo.com.

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