About the Zoo

Providing Guests "The Best Day Ever"

Founded in 1914, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park is among the top 10 percent of zoos in North America awarded accreditation by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. The zoo is dedicated to connecting people to the natural world by providing engaging guest experiences, exceptional animal care and unparalleled conservation education.

The zoo is home to more than 700 animals representing 216 different species -- from tiny poison dart frogs to 8,000-pound Asian elephants -- many of them threatened or endangered. The zoo actively collaborates with its non-profit partner, Friends of the Zoo, to provide visitors with experiences that excite, memories that endure and knowledge that inspires global wildlife conservation. 

A Word from Zoo Director Ted Fox

I hope you enjoy your visit to the Rosamond Gifford Zoo! We are especially proud of our zoo -- from its focus on animal welfare to its “green building” status to the amazing educational opportunities provided by our zookeepers and educators.

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo prides itself on our accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), a distinction earned by only 240 institutions. AZA accreditation is your guarantee that the Rosamond Gifford Zoo meets the highest standards of animal care and welfare, wildlife conservation education and guest experience.

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo is also a breeding zoo, working closely with other AZA institutions to help ensure the survival of threatened and endangered species around the world.

Take your time, observe the animals, stroll the grounds, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and help us make the world a better place for animals and people. Thank you for your support!

- Ted