Calgary’s Zoo

With all the forest fires most backcountry hiking has been closed and the air is filled with smoke, so we went to Calgary’s Zoo, which was our first visit. It was a very hot day (30 degrees). All the gardens in the Zoo are beautiful. We found the Gorillas the most interesting. There are hothouses, filled with tropical plants, Bougainvilleas, lovely bronze statues and even a Butterfly garden. The Hippos have a large aquarium filled with fish, but unfortunately they weren’t in it.

“The Calgary Zoo is the second largest zoo in Canada and in 2012 was the nation's most visited zoo. In 2014, it was named by Trip Advisor as Canada's top zoo and it has received international recognition as one of the top zoos in the world for conservation research. In 2013, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums said "the Calgary Zoo sets itself apart as one of the top zoos in the world." The animal exhibits are organized by geographic region, including Destination Africa, Canadian Wilds, Penguin Plunge, Dorothy Harvie Botanical Gardens and ENMAX Conservatory, Eurasia, and Prehistoric Park.” – Wikipedia

“Calgary Zoo is on St. George's Island. St. George’s Island was Calgary’s first park, used by the community for picnics, relaxing, and socializing. The first collection of animals appeared on the island in 1917. The Calgary Zoological Society was established in 1929.” – Wikipedia