One of the most enjoyable activity in the Rio Grande Valley is visiting the Gladys Porter Zoo. Even though I do believe the best time to visit is from October to April because of the weather, for some reason we always end up visiting during the summer when temperatures can climb above 100 degrees. The positive side is that most of the time we get to see the animals in very unique “picture perfect” poses as they relax and enjoy the summer afternoon. Such is the case of this female gorilla holding a newborn baby gorilla relaxing and staring at the curious eyes of the visitors or the gorilla pictured above trying to take a siesta.
Tips for your visit; don’t forget a camera, sun block, sun glasses, cap and light colored cotton clothing.
Visit www.gpz.org to read all about this wonderful zoo including the following:
In a mere ¾ mile trek, a visitor to the Gladys Porter Zoo will encounter a diverse ensemble of 377 species of animals and 225 species of plants. The park is divided into four zoogeographic areas: Africa, Asia, Tropical America and Indo-Australia. There is also a Herpetarium and Aquatic Wing, a Free-flight Aviary, Macaw Canyon, Bear Grottos, a California Sea Lion exhibit and Komodo dragon exhibit. Small World features a nursery and an animal contact yard where children can touch and interact with domesticated animals. Large numbers of wild birds find sanctuary on the Zoo grounds, drawn to the plants and waterways that provide them with food and shelter.
Take a virtual tour of the Gladys Porter Zoo.
Photos by Lupe Gonzales
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