What Are Some Unique Animals That Live in a Zoo?

Zoos, also known as zoological parks, are facilities that house a wide variety of animal species. They are typically popular attractions to both local people as well as tourists. Zoos have been a part of human culture for many years, in fact, the first zoo was discovered in Egyptian ruins that date back to more than 5000 years ago.

Many animal species are featured in zoos all over the world. Some of the most popular and unique animals are listed below:

Lions - These big cats are second only in size to tigers, with some males weighing nearly 600 lbs. They are currently found in the wild in India and Africa.

Giraffes - This mammal is known for having the greatest height of any land-animal in current existence. The giraffe is an African species that can reach heights of up to 20 feet and weight well over 2,000 pounds.

Elephants - Elephants are known for their huge size and intelligence. The large mammals can weight more than 20,000 pounds and reach heights exceeding 10 feet. Only three species of elephant exist today: the African bush elephant, the African forest elephant, and the Asian elephant.

Snakes - These reptiles are quite popular due to the fact that they terrify some and fascinate others. Both venomous and nonvenomous snakes are kept in zoos; examples include the anaconda, king cobra, and black mamba.

Cheetahs - These felines are known for the high speeds that they reach while pursuing prey; many are capable of reaching speeds of 70 miles-per-hour and more.

Zebras - These characteristically striped relatives of the horse are found in Africa. They are very unique, and frequent additions to zoos all over the world.

Rhinoceros - These large mammals are easily recognizable by the horn protruding from the front of their skull. Five species of rhino can be found in zoos: the White Rhinoceros, Black Rhinoceros, Indian Rhinoceros, Javan Rhinoceros, and the Sumatran Rhinoceros.