|
|
|
|
Where does the zoo gets its animals?
The vast majority of our animals come from other zoos, many as part of a collaborative captive breeding effort among accredited zoos around the country. Most of our domestic animals are donated by private individuals or shelters, and some are wild animals from the Humboldt Wildlife Care Center that have sustained injuries that will not allow them to return to the wild. The zoo provides them a safe home where they can be ambassadors for their wild counterparts to teach visitors about caring for nature. A select few of the zoo's animals were born and raised right here at Sequoia Park Zoo.
|
|
|
|
Can I bring my pet to the zoo?
Please don’t! Zoo animals can become alarmed at the sight of strange animals. More importantly, your pet can transmit diseases to the zoo animals, and vice versa. It is for the safety of all the animals that we do not allow pets in the zoo.
|
|
|
|
Can I donate my animal to the zoo?
Probably not. The zoo can only accept animals that we have specific plans to exhibit, and we do not have the space or staff to adequately house extra animals. Sadly, we receive several calls each week from someone needing to place an unwanted pet. If you have an animal in need of a new home, please try our local and statewide rescue organizations that specialize in re-homing unwanted pets. Plans for a pet should always include care for its entire lifespan. Remember that exotic animals almost never make good pets, and most are illegal to keep in California.
|
|
|
|
Can I volunteer at the zoo?
Yes you can! We have both youth and adult volunteer programs. For more information call our Education office at 441-4217.
|
|
|
|
How do the flamingos stay pink?
Wild flamingos eat small animals and plants that contain a naturally occurring pigment that turns some of the flamingos’ feathers pink. Our flamingos eat a specially formulated diet that contains the same pigment. Without it, the flamingos would look white!
|
|
|
|
How is the zoo funded?
The zoo is owned and operated by the City of Eureka. Funding for all operational costs (animal food, vet care, education programs, keeper salaries, etc) is provided through the City’s general fund. Capital improvements such as the Barnyard and Entry Pavilion facilities were funded entirely from private donations and grants. The Zoo Foundation is the non-profit fund-raising organization that supports the zoo, through Gift Shop and Cafe sales, memberships, events and other fundraising activities. Please consider joining the Zoo Foundation or contributing to the Zoo Improvement Fund and help us build a better zoo. Call 442-5649 for more information.
|
|
|
|
I don't see any typical zoo animals like elephants and tigers - where are they?
Our zoo is unique – we are one of the smallest accredited zoos in the country. On only 5 acres, we have very limited space for large exhibits. Although zoos in the past may have displayed animals in small cages, we prefer to accomodate animals in spacious and natural surroundings. Since large animals usually need large spaces (and large food budgets), we feel our best effort is to focus on a variety of smaller animals that have just as interesting stories to share.
|
|
|
|
Is food available at the zoo?
Absolutely - it's some of the best food in town! The Zoo Café is located inside the Entry Pavilion, and is currently open daily during regular zoo hours. Our menu includes grilled burgers, hotdogs, chicken, salads and deli sandwiches, espresso and cold drinks, ice cream, popcorn, and more! Stop by for lunch, a snack or a latte. You can even order food "to-go". Call 442-6552 to place an order. Best of all, revenues go towards zoo improvements!
|
|
|
|
When are the animals fed?
Feeding times vary throughout the day. Ask a staff member during your visit.
|
|
|
|
Why are some of the animals so hard to see?
Our animal exhibits are designed so that animals have places to sleep and hide if they wish, and to display natural behaviors as they do in nature. Some animals are naturally less active during the middle of the day, like the aviary birds. If you don't see an animal, look again later during your visit. And ask a keeper where their favorite resting spots are.
|
|
|
|
Will the zoo get another chimpanzee?
With the passing of Bill, Sequoia Park Zoo saw the end of an era. Since most chimpanzees require the companionship of many others, our zoo simply does not have the space or budget to accomodate them. Bill was an unusual exception to this rule given his unique past. To learn more about Bill and his life and the zoo's history, visit "Bill's Garden" - a peaceful tribute to our beloved and dearly missed chimpanzee.
|
|
|
|
Will the zoo get more animals?
The Zoo adds new animals regularly. If you haven't visited lately you are bound to see something new. We have plans for several exciting new species as funding for new exhbiits allows. Our new master plan identifies new animal exhibits and a new layout for the zoo, which will be accomplished in phases over many years. We are now working on the first phase of renovating our older exhibits, including the primates and bear. Next we will renovate the flamingo and cavy exhibits. We need your financial support to build and improve animal exhibits. Please consider contribuiting to the Zoo Foundation's Zoo Improvement Fund. Call 442-5649 for more information.
|
|
|
|
Will we have prairie dogs again?
We hope so! The round Prairie dog exhibit was outdated and had to be removed during renovation in 2004. The zoo's new master plan includes a naturalistic Prairie dog habitat that will also feature endangered Black-footed ferrets, Burrowing owls, Badger, and other species that depend on Prairie dog towns. This phase of develoment is in our long-range plan.
|
