Founded in 1955, the Birmingham Zoo has come along ways since its first exhibit of Monkey Island. With a meager budget of just $250,000 and 50 acres of land, a commission set about the task of setting of the first exhibits.

As the years went by, the zoo slowly expanded, however a lack of funds nearly spelled its doom when the American Zoo and Aquarium Association pulled its accreditation from the zoo. Things looked quite grim for the Birmingham Zoo.

However, in coordination with Mayor Richard Arrington, and a host of community leaders, a new board was set up and the zoo became a private non-profit organization. Today the zoo houses over 800 animals permanently, and has also hosted a string of traveling animals such as, Koalas, bats, and penguins. It has also regained accreditation with the AZA and has been named one of the top Zoos in the United States.

With a renewed hope for the zoo, a host of new exhibits were planned including the Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo, dedicated to educating children about species both domestic and foreign. The zoo houses hundreds of permanent animals from 6 continents and all quarters of the world. Endangered species such as the bald eagle are housed at the zoo, and because of conservation and rehabilitation, the zoo will soon be releasing the growing chicks into the wild. Bobcat, llama, tortoise, sheep, rattlesnake, and cheetah, the zoo has them all! Just about every reptile, mammal, and bird you can imagine calls the zoo home.

Also you’ll want to check out the Sea Lion feeding every day at 10:30 and 3:00. Watch these graceful animals jump, dive, splash, and dance…it’s a sight to be had! Also take a seat of for an exciting educational show from the Zoo’s Alligator Keeper. He’s got a host of gators and reptiles both you and the kids are sure to love!

The Birmingham Zoo is truly a success story. On the verge of shutting down due to inadequate funding; the zoo has rebounded ten fold, and now is a one of Alabama’s most popular attractions. The community work, conservation, and educational programs increase ever year. So come by, enjoy the sights and sounds of the zoo, and leave with a renewed commitment of why institutions like this are such a vital necessity.

Still haven’t got enough of your favorite furry critters?

For another great animal viewing experience, swing by the Harmony Park Wildlife Refuge and take a drive you will never forget. This open-range zoo houses hundreds of roaming animals, from buffalo to llamas, you’ll love the sights and sounds across the two miles of road through the zoo and is sure to keep you entertained.

The Birmingham Zoo is a story that should never be forgotten. With the unbelievable success of this Alabama vacation spot, this attraction is one that is a “must-see” on any trip to the state. Make a day of it and enjoy the scenery!