As nature guides, conservationists, and lifelong advocates for wild places, we’ve always been a bit skeptical about zoos. So when we planned our visit to the San Antonio Zoo, we approached it with open minds but guarded expectations. And we’re so glad we did—because what we found was truly eye-opening! The San Antonio Zoo isn’t just another zoo; it’s a thriving center for conservation, education, and community engagement. It’s a place alive with a passion for wildlife and preservation, and it profoundly impacted us.
An Impressive Operation
From the moment we stepped through the gates, it was clear that this zoo is meticulously cared for. The zoo runs like a well-oiled machine with over 700 dedicated staff—veterinary technicians, researchers, animal carers, guest experience hosts, operations and grounds teams, security, and more. The grounds are spotless, the organization seamless, and the energy from the staff is contagious. It was clear that everyone, from management to docents, was deeply committed to their roles, creating a welcoming atmosphere that resonated with every visitor.
Children filled the zoo everyday, throughout the two weeks, which at first took us by surprise. Back home in South Africa, visiting the zoo is typically a weekend activity, but it’s part of the educational fabric in San Antonio. Many children are homeschooled, and visiting the zoo regularly is part of their curriculum—an immersive way to learn about nature and wildlife up close. This connection to education deeply resonated with us, as conservation education is one of the values we hold closest to our hearts. Here, they’re nurturing a love for wildlife from a young age, every single day.
Behind the Scenes: Research and Education
One of the memorable aspects of our visit was having the rare opportunity to explore the research initiatives taking place behind the scenes at the zoo. This insider’s look was an eye-opening experience, allowing us to appreciate the cutting-edge studies that focus on animal behavior, conservation, and environmental impact.
During the tour, we had the chance to learn about the zoo’s work in genetic research, where scientists are studying genetic diversity among endangered species to inform breeding programs. Another fascinating area was their behavioral studies, which focus on understanding how animals interact within their environments—information that’s crucial for designing enclosures that mimic the wild and reduce stress in animals.
Additionally, we saw how researchers are working on health and nutrition studies aimed at improving dietary plans to mimic the animals’ natural diets. This approach enhances their well-being and provides insights that can aid wildlife rehabilitation programs globally. These initiatives are often out of the public eye, so witnessing them firsthand was incredibly inspiring, revealing how the zoo’s commitment to science and conservation extends beyond what most visitors experience.
This experience not only underscored the zoo’s dedication to its mission of conservation and education but also allowed us to engage with the passionate scientists working tirelessly to make a difference for animals in captivity and the wild.
We even had the chance to visit a nearby school, the Will Smith School—not that Will Smith, but just as memorable! This kindergarten, adjacent to the zoo, is like a Montessori school with a twist: it’s rooted in nature education. Children between ages 3 and 5 venture into the zoo almost daily, exploring wildlife with their teachers. Schalk even joined them for a few “walkabouts,” sharing stories of African wildlife with these young, eager minds. The kids adored him—especially his “cool” long beard and tales of animal behavior from the African bush! Watching their fascination and excitement was priceless, and Schalk’s connection with them was a beautiful reminder of the power of storytelling in conservation. Find out more here – Will Smith School
A Day in the Field: Releasing Horned Lizards
One incredible experience took us beyond the zoo itself to a ranch just outside San Antonio, where we joined about 50 passionate conservationists for a special release event for horned lizards. These small but vital creatures play a significant role in the local ecosystem. With the San Antonio Zoo’s ongoing conservation program, we released around 60 lizards back into their native habitat, helping to restore this threatened species. Holding one of these little lizards, knowing its importance, was a reminder of how even the smallest creatures are crucial to the larger ecological web.
Find out more here – Texas Horned Lizard Project
Exciting New Projects: The Congo Falls and Naylor Savanna Project
The zoo’s dedication to conservation is clear in its continuous growth and development. Two of their most ambitious projects currently underway are the gorilla habitat (Congo Falls) and the expansive savannah exhibit (Naylor Savanna). The gorilla habitat promises to be a state-of-the-art enclosure, allowing these intelligent and social animals to thrive while providing visitors a window into their world in a way that promotes understanding and empathy. Meanwhile, the savannah project aims to create an immersive, multi-species environment, showcasing the dynamics of African wildlife in a way that’s both engaging and educational. These projects underline the zoo’s commitment to providing environments that not only prioritize the animals’ well-being but also foster public appreciation for wildlife and the importance of conservation.
Conservation Conversations and Community
Our visit also allowed us to spend time with the animal carers and team leaders. Schalk shared insights from his experiences as a guide and conservationist, sparking meaningful discussions on conservation practices and the challenges faced by wildlife. These exchanges reminded us of the importance of collaboration and shared knowledge. Conservation is an immense field, and for any of us working within it, staying connected and working together is crucial for real change.
One group that deserves special mention is the zoo’s incredible docents. These passionate volunteers generously give their time to educate visitors, sharing knowledge, and engaging people of all ages. The docents’ love for the zoo and its animals is evident, and their willingness to welcome new guests with open arms added so much warmth to our experience. During one of our conversations, Schalk shared a message close to his heart: if we don’t each do our part for conservation, who will? It’s a shared responsibility, and the dedication of the docents was a beautiful example of this in action.
A Special Thank You
None of this experience would have been possible without the hospitality and leadership of Tim Morrow, the CEO and President of the San Antonio Zoo, and his exceptional team. Tim and his staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome, ensuring we experienced every facet of this incredible institution. Their dedication to wildlife, conservation, and education shines brightly through their work and their warmth. We are so grateful for the time they shared with us and for the inspiring work they do every day. Thank you, Tim and the entire San Antonio Zoo team, for a memorable and impactful visit!
A special thank you to the Ralston Foundation for sponsoring our trip to Texas and for their generous contributions to conservation. Their hands-on dedication to protecting wildlife and supporting impactful projects is truly inspiring. We’re grateful for their support and commitment to making a difference!
Changing Perspectives on Zoos
Our time at the San Antonio Zoo gave us a newfound respect for the role that zoos can play in conservation and education. Here, the people are the heartbeat of the operation—their passion, care, and dedication shine through in every interaction. The zoo isn’t just about displaying animals; it’s about creating meaningful connections between people and wildlife, nurturing a conservation-minded community, and empowering future generations.
So, if you ever find yourself in San Antonio, we wholeheartedly recommend a visit to this remarkable zoo. Go with an open heart, and you might just walk away with a new perspective and a renewed appreciation for the incredible work being done to protect and celebrate our planet’s biodiversity.
We will be back!
Candice x