The National Zoo, Washington, D.C.
Date Visited: October 12, 2006
Contact Information:
3001 Connecticut Avenue NW,
Washington, DC 20008
Hours: The grounds are open everyday from 6 a.m.-8 p.m.
Admission: Admission is free
Facts: Founded in 1889 by an act of congress, the national zoo
has dedicated itself to providing the best care for the
animals and making advancements in science.
The zoo is a part of the Smithsonian Institute and has
nearly 2,400 animals that include 400 different species.
Lectures, symposiums, and classes are regularly offered
at the zoo, and it is also a venue for other events such as
birthday parties.
The experience: For me, going to any zoo is always full of mixed
feelings. First, I really enjoy seeing all of the animals, some of which I would have to travel to far off lands to see. But second, I feel guilty for gawking at these animals who are being held captive and would no doubt be happier if they could only roam free in their natural environment. Then again, scientists learn a lot about the animals, and they get the medical care animals in the wild could only dream of, if they indeed dream. The information learned in the research done at zoos allows scientists to apply their knowledge to help animals in the wild. Zoos can also be beneficial in the preservation and breeding of endangered species.
As far as animal variety, this zoo did not disappoint. I saw pandas, giraffes, lions, sea lions, tigers, zebras, gorillas, elephants, and my favorite, the tamarins. The golden lion tamarins are free to go wherever they wish within the zoo. Usually they stick to the same section of trees, but sometimes they venture out a little further. They were very playful, and visitors are advised to put away any food they might have when near them because they may try to take it. Native to southeastern Brazil, they are endangered due to a loss in habitat. So, in this case it seems good to have them at the zoo.
On the other side, the gorillas seemed depressed. Their habitat seemed big and perhaps realistic to their natural habitat, but they seemed bored.
As far as animal variety, this zoo did not disappoint. I saw pandas, giraffes, lions, sea lions, tigers, zebras, gorillas, elephants, and my favorite, the tamarins. The golden lion tamarins are free to go wherever they wish within the zoo. Usually they stick to the same section of trees, but sometimes they venture out a little further. They were very playful, and visitors are advised to put away any food they might have when near them because they may try to take it. Native to southeastern Brazil, they are endangered due to a loss in habitat. So, in this case it seems good to have them at the zoo.
On the other side, the gorillas seemed depressed. Their habitat seemed big and perhaps realistic to their natural habitat, but they seemed bored. The zoo was easy to navigate with helpful maps posted. Misters were set up in a couple of locations for hot days, which were not necessary when I was there but are probably great for those hot and humid D.C. summer days. I found it was worth going bright and early before the crowd gets too bad. Also, the volunteers were very friendly, and one working in the Tamarin section was very knowledgeable and willing to tell us about the animal while she worked, recording their location.
No comments:
Post a Comment