As you wander through the zoo, you’ll hear chirping birds, roaring lions, playful monkeys, and an array of other animals. But have you ever wondered what goes through the minds of the animals at the zoo when they see humans? Visiting the zoo is undoubtedly an enjoyable experience for us. And some of us can’t help but wonder about the perspective of the animals in their enclosures. Do they perceive onlookers as fascinating beings, or perhaps they find humans peculiar?

A study conducted by animal behavior experts from Nottingham Trent University and Harper Adams University examined over 250 different species in zoos. They determined which animals enjoy our visits to the zoo and which ones don’t.

“Zoo visitors are often aspects of a zoo animal’s environment that animals cannot control and as such can be stressful, although some species appear to show good adaptability for the changing conditions of visitors,” said Dr. Samantha Ward, from Nottingham Trent University.

Top Animals That Love Seeing Humans At The Zoo

For the most part, their study revealed that the majority of animals in zoos don’t appear to be significantly affected by human presence. However, elephants are one of the top species that genuinely seemed to enjoy seeing us. According to the study, elephants displayed increased activity and appeared less bored when surrounded by large groups of people. Several other species were found to enjoy our company, including penguins, cheetahs, prairie dogs, cockatoos, grizzly bears, and polar bears. It seems that these animals find excitement in the presence of human visitors.

Which Animals Don’t Enjoy Seeing Humans At The Zoo?

Not all animals in zoos react positively to visitors. Marsupials, ostriches, and hedgehogs were found to be negatively affected by the presence of humans, as revealed by the study. It appears that these particular species may feel more comfortable or exhibit natural behaviors when they have less interaction with people.

Unforgettable Zoos: Explore These Must-Visit Wildlife Destinations

Visiting the zoo gives you a chance to get up close and personal with all sorts of animals. You can see creatures that might be super rare or hard to find in the wild. You can witness their behaviors, study their physical features, and gain a deeper understanding of their natural habitats.

Some may even say zoos are like schools because they teach us about wildlife conservation and the environment. You can check out cool displays, take guided tours, and listen to talks that raise awareness about protecting endangered species and keeping our planet healthy.

And you can’t forget that going to the zoo is a great way to spend time with family and friends. People visit zoos to get in touch with nature, learn about wildlife, have fun, and be part of something bigger by supporting conservation.

Here are ten zoos you should visit at least once.

Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha, NE
The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium has a huge variety of animals from all over the world, like elephants, primates, colorful birds, and even marine life. You can get up close and personal with these incredible creatures and learn about the importance of conservation. They have interactive exhibits and fun programs that teach you about wildlife and how to protect it. You can explore underwater habitats and see stunning marine species, from vibrant coral reefs to graceful sea turtles. Visitors can walk through what the zoo calls the world’s largest indoor desert and the largest indoor rainforest in North America. And if you don’t feel like walking back from the exhibits, you can take a steam-powered locomotive that circles around the 130-acre park.
Denver Zoo, Denver, CO
The Denver Zoo is home to more than 3,000 animals representing more than 450 species. They offer a schedule of exciting and interactive events, including close encounters with animals and diverse cultural performances. Kids can even join the thrilling ‘Bunk with the Beasts’ overnight stay, featuring up-close visits with animals, along with a pizza dinner, snack, and breakfast. Outside of the zoo, their Field Conservation and Emergency Wildlife Response teams work to safeguard species from threats like habitat loss and human encroachment.
The Toledo Zoo, Toledo Ohio
The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is home to 720 species and houses more than 10,000 individual animals. It places a strong emphasis on conservation, actively participating in over 80 species survival programs. The zoo hosts the popular Toledo Zoo Lights event during the holiday season and collaborates with research institutions. Visitors to the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium can try their hand at the Expedition Africa Aerial Adventure Course. They also have the opportunity to feed a variety of animals, including giraffes, goats, and alpacas.
Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
Zoo Atlanta provides something for everyone, whether you prefer a relaxed walk through the African Savanna or an immersive experience in The Ford African Rain Forest. It’s home to more than 1,000 animals representing more than 200 species from around the world, with many of them endangered. Visitors can see a variety of animals including gorillas, monkeys, and an array of reptiles and amphibians. Also, you’ll get a chance to see giant pandas, naked mole rats, clouded leopards, and other animals in the Asian Forest.
Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, IL
Established in 1868, the Lincoln Park Zoo stands out as one of the few remaining free-admission zoos in the United States. They have a diverse animal population of over 1,200 animals that you can see through the zoo’s self-guided tours and interactive activities. It includes encounters with seals, polar bears, and penguins. It’s must-see attraction is the Regenstein Center for African Apes, which houses chimpanzees and gorillas.
San Francisco Zoo, San Francisco, CA
Spanning across a 100-acre site, the San Francisco Zoo serves as a sanctuary for over 1,000 wild animals representing more than 250 species. Notably, it holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Koko the gorilla, an iconic figure in primate communication studies. The zoo is home to several major exhibits, including the African Savannah featuring reticulated giraffes, and the Primate Discovery Center housing black howler monkeys, chimpanzees, macaques, mandrills, and more. Visitors can explore the Cat Kingdom, home to Indian rhinoceros, hippopotamus, African lions, snow leopards, Sumatran tigers, and even anacondas.
Zoo Knoxville, Knoxville, TN
Zoo Knoxville is famous for a couple of amazing achievements. Back in 1978, they made history by breeding the first two African Elephants ever born in the Western Hemisphere. Zoo Knoxville has bred more endangered red pandas than any other zoo in the world. It also plays a significant role in the conservation of endangered tortoises through its leading breeding efforts.

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Smithsonian National Zoo, Washington, D.C.
The Smithsonian National Zoo sits on 163 acres in the heart of Washington, D.C.’s Rock Creek Park. Founded in 1889, the Zoo is currently home to more than 2,700 animals representing more than 390 species. Like all Smithsonian museums, admission is free. A popular feature of the zoo is its endangered giant pandas which include adults Tian Tian and Mei Xiang and one-year-old Xiao Qi Ji. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the zoo with the Animal Adventure Guide or spend some time chatting with the animal keepers at the Great Ape House. You can also get up close and personal with the American farm animals at the Kids’ Farm.

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San Diego Zoo, San Diego, CA
The San Diego Zoo was established in 1916 and is home to a remarkable collection of animals. With over 12,000 animals representing more than 650 species and subspecies, there is a lot to see and explore. You can encounter fascinating creatures like red pandas, African elephants, and bonobo apes during your visit. One such experience is the “Inside Look” program, which gives you a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the daily life of the zoo. Another must-try is the Skyfari aerial tram, where you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of all the different habitats in the zoo.
Bronx Zoo, New York City. NY
The Bronx Zoo occupies more than 265 acres. Within this space, there are over 10,000 animals for you to encounter. Plan to spend a whole day there. They offer a range of experiences, such as the Treetop Adventure, where visitors can enjoy ziplining through the trees. You can also visit the zoo’s Butterfly Garden and witness over a dozen types of butterflies among meadow flowers and nectar trays. You don’t want to miss the Congo Gorilla Forest or the Wild Asia Monorail.