Conservation VIEW ALL
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Galapagos Tortoise Research
Determination of the Origin of Captive Galapagos Tortoises: A great number of the Galapagos tortoises that are currently in captivity were taken off of various islands in Galapagos early in the 20th century
$40 Donated -
Philippine Crocodile
North American Cooperative Conservation for the Philippine Crocodile: Staff from the Department of Herpetology work with the Philippine government and the Philippine National Recovery Team
$193 Donated -
Local Wildlife
Putting Wildlife Back: The Animal Health Department at the Gladys Porter Zoo is the principal wildlife rehabilitation unit for the Rio Grande Valley. Wildlife rehabilitation involves caring for injured, ill and orphaned wild animals with the goal of releasing
$170 Donated -
Iguana Conservation
International Iguana Foundation: The Zoo’s General Curator, Colette Hairston Adams, serves as a member of the Board of the International Iguana Foundation (IIF), whose mission is to actively support conservation,
$10 Donated -
Rhino Conservation
International Rhino Foundation: Gladys Porter Zoo’s Director Emeritus, Don. D. Farst, D.V.M., serves as a member of the Board of the International Rhino Foundation (IRF), whose mission is to contribute to rhino conservation
$0 Donated -
Saving the American Ocelot
The Animal Health Department at the Gladys Porter Zoo is actively involved in assisting US Fish and Wildlife Services with ocelot health monitoring at Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge (LANWR).
$270 Donated -
Kemp’s Ridley Project
Of the seven species of sea turtles in the world, the Kemp’s ridley, Lepidochelys kempii, is the most endangered. It is also the smallest sea turtle and the only species that nests primarily during the daytime.
$4756 Donated
Calendar VIEW ALL
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Winter Walking Tours
Knowledgeable docents are conducting walking tours around the Zoo, upon request. To schedule a tour, call the Education Department at (956) 546-7187 or email educ@gpz.org at least a week in advance. Docents not only provide a tour of the facility but they also tell a range of stories from the history of the zoo to […]
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Saturday Safari – Who’s on the Menu?
All living things have a connection to one another, like links on chain. Come explore components of food chains and what makes up the cyclical system called a food web. Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. Parents can join, too. Safaris begin at 10:00 a.m. and end at 12:00 p.m. Zoo […]
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Saturday Safari – Do Animals Play?
Some animal behavior looks like play, but all this activity is serious business for animals. Young animals learn survival skills through “play”. In captivity, animals have to be given opportunities to “play”. Come help design enrichment activities for Zoo animals. Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. Parents can join, too. Safaris […]
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Saturday Safari – Top Zoo Chef
Zoo dieticians have to prepare meals for lots of animals every day. Come help feed some of the Zoo’s animals after you learn what they eat. Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. Parents can join, too. Safaris begin at 10:00 a.m. and end at 12:00 p.m. Zoo tour, arts & crafts, […]
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Saturday Safari – Measuring Up
How do you find out how much a birds weighs? How do you measure how long a snake has grown? Come help zookeepers record the weights and lengths of some of the Zoo’s animals. Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. Parents can join, too. Safaris begin at 10:00 a.m. and end […]
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Saturday Safari – Dinosaurs
Walk back in time to discover a world ruled by giants. As part of the class, get to visit the robotic dinosaur exhibit. Get to know all the interesting characteristics of some of these prehistoric creatures. Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. Parents can join, too. Safaris begin at 10:00 a.m. […]
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Saturday Safari – If I Ran the Zoo
Learn what it takes to keep animals in a zoo. Go behind the scenes to learn more about zoo operations. Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. Parents can join, too. Safaris begin at 10:00 a.m. and end at 12:00 p.m. Zoo tour, arts & crafts, animal encounters and snacks are included […]
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Animal Play Day
Stop by the Zoo for our “Valentine’s Day” themed Animal Play Day to watch our animals interact with heart-shaped boxes and buckets filled with “sweet” treats as well as other enrichment items provided by our zookeepers. Animal enrichment provides novel food and play items to stimulate and entertain our Zoo inhabitants. These enrichment items are […]
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Animatronic Dinosaur Exhibit
Walk back in time to discover a world ruled by giants. The dinosaur exhibit will include realistic robotic dinosaurs on display. Get to know all the interesting characteristics of some of these prehistoric creatures. Admission into the exhibit is an additional $3.00.
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Saturday Safari – Bee Friends
Do plants and animals make friends? Come learn about plant and animal relationships and how important they are for survival. You will be surprised to discover some of this interesting animal plant connections. Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. Parents can join, too. Safaris begin at 10:00 a.m. and end at […]
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Saturday Safari – Creature Feature
Do you know why animals have such unique characteristics? How can birds fly, fish swim and polar bears survive freezing temperatures? Let’s take a closer look at some the zoo creatures and talk features. Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. Parents can join, too. Safaris begin at 10:00 a.m. and end […]
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Animal Play Day
Stop by the Zoo on our Animal Play Day to watch animals interact with enrichment items that are given to them by our zookeepers. Animal enrichment provides novel food and play items to stimulate and entertain our Zoo inhabitants. These enrichment items are a vital component to the health and well-being of our animal collection. […]
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Saturday Safari – Extreme Life-cycles
What creature begins its life with no wings, but can eventually fly? Some of the world’s smallest creatures undergo the most extreme physical changes during their life cycle. Come see first-hand the metamorphosis of some of the zoo’s creatures. Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. Parents can join, too. Safaris begin […]
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Saturday Safari – Habitat Sweet Habitat
Learn what animals consider home. Identify various animal homes by the elements present that make it perfectly suitable for living. Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. Parents can join, too. Safaris begin at 10:00 a.m. and end at 12:00 p.m. Zoo tour, arts & crafts, animal encounters and snacks are included […]
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Animal Play Day
Stop by the Zoo on our Animal Play Day to watch animals interact with enrichment items that are given to them by our zookeepers. Animal enrichment provides novel food and play items to stimulate and entertain our Zoo inhabitants. These enrichment items are a vital component to the health and well-being of our animal collection. […]
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Saturday Morning Safari
Kids and parents have been having a great time in our Animal classes. Enroll your child for Saturday morning classes at the Zoo. You can join, too. Classes begin at 10:00 a.m. and end at 12:00 p.m. Zoo tour, snack, materials and supplies are included in each class. Fee is $15.00 per child or adult […]
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Oceanarium
The Urban Science Initiative, Inc. and the Gladys Porter Zoo are teaming up once again to present the exciting ocean science program, Oceanarium from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. It is an ocean science educational event that provides unique opportunities for students, parents, teachers, and others to engage in science. Visitors will be able to […]
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Animal Play Day
Stop by the Zoo for our “Valentine’s Day” themed Animal Play Day to watch our animals interact with special treats and enrichment items provided by our zookeepers. Animal enrichment provides novel food and play items to stimulate and entertain our Zoo inhabitants. These enrichment items are a vital component to the health and well-being of […]
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Children’s Play Day
The UTRGV College of Education will host a Children’s Play Day at the Gladys Porter Zoo in honor of the National Association for the Education of Young Children’s (NAEYC) Week of the Young Child™, which advocates for the importance of early- learning opportunities for all young children. The purpose of the “Children’s Play Day” is […]
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45th Birthday Weekend $2.00 Admission
On September 3, 2016, the Zoo is turning 45 and bringing it in with some wild admission rates for all to enjoy. During our birthday weekend September 2nd – 4th, 2016 visit the Zoo for only $2.00, for both adults and children! The Zoo opens at 9:00 a.m. For 45 years the Gladys Porter Zoo […]
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Boo at the Zoo
The Gladys Porter Zoo will hold its 27th annual “Boo at the Zoo” celebration Sunday, October 30th and Monday, October 31st from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Become a Zoo member and you are eligible to come in early during the members’ only hour from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Come out for a ghoulish good […]
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Wild Tales
Come listen to a story, meet some of the Zoo’s Animal Ambassadors and get a free book while supplies last. Storytelling stations, face painting and crafts will be set-up on Zoo grounds. Wild Tales begins at 10:00 a.m. and ends at 3:00 p.m. Children’s books will be given away while supplies last. Wild Tales is a […]
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Zoo Nights & Lights – December 2, 3 & 4, 2016
Enjoy a holiday event for the whole family with a dazzling display of approximately 150 lighted animal and holiday fixtures along with 800 luminarias adorning the pathways. Plus, live performances from local bands, church and school choirs, arts & crafts show in the special events building, hot chocolate, churros and more 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 […]
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Orangutan Awareness Day
The Gladys Porter Zoo, in conjunction with Orangutan Outreach and many Zoos across the nation, as well as volunteers from the Students Teaching Students program and enrichment program, will celebrate Mother’s Day this year by paying tribute to orangutan mothers with the Missing Orangutan Mothers campaign (M.O.M.). The goal of M.O.M. is to raise awareness […]
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Brownsville Appreciation Days
As a big thank you to the residents of Brownsville for their constant support, the Gladys Porter Zoo will offer an entire weekend of admission discounts for all residents living inside the Brownsville city limits. From Friday, September 8th through Sunday, September 10th, Brownsville residents will be able to visit the Zoo for the special […]
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Zoofari 2017
Join us for some monkey business! The Gladys Porter Zoo invites you to the biggest fundraiser of the year, Zoofari 2017 on Saturday, October 7th from 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. Swing your way over to the jungle and support the Zoo while enjoying great food, auctions and music. Every bid supports the Zoo: Proceeds […]
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Upper Valley Appreciation Days
All residents living in the Upper Valley will be able to visit the Zoo for the special admission price. The Upper Valley includes: Alamo, Alton, Cantu, Donna, Edcouch, Edinburg, Elsa, Faysville, Granjeno, Hargill, Heidelberg, Hidalgo, La Blanca, La Joya, La Villa, Las Milpas, Linn, Lopezville, Mercedes, McAllen, McCook, Mission, Monte Alto, Palmhurst, Penitas, Pharr, Progreso, […]
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Baby Giraffe Makes Public Debut
[rev_slider wtails] How could anyone or anything not fall in love with a face like this? One look at this adorable giraffe calf will melt anyone’s heart. He was born on April 28th. At its birth, he weighed 107 pounds, less than the average calf, which is around 135 to 145 pounds. Despite […]
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Zoo Nights & Lights – December 1, 2 & 3, 2017
Enjoy a holiday event for the whole family with a dazzling display of approximately 150 lighted animal and holiday fixtures along with 800 luminarias adorning the pathways. Plus, live performances from local bands, church and school choirs, arts & crafts show in the special events building, hot chocolate, churros and more 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 […]
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Winter Texan Day
All Winter Texans will be able to visit the Zoo for a special admission price of $4.50. Walking tours, and train tours will also be conducted throughout the duration of the event. Guests must show proof of out-of-state residence in order to receive the discounted admission rate. For more information, please call the Zoo office at […]
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WILD TALES 2018
[rev_slider wtails] Come listen to a story, meet some of the Zoo’s Animal Ambassadors and even get a free book while supplies last. Storytelling, face painting, crafts and special play stations will be set-up on Zoo grounds. Tales begin at 10:00 a.m. and end at 3:00 p.m. During Wild Tales everyone gets the discounted […]
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Easter Bazaar
Find a special Easter gift at our annual Easter Bazaar. The Bazaar features vendors with unique gifts, art, gourmet snacks, handmade jewelry and more. It is open during regular Zoo hours of operation and there is no additional fee to enter. The Easter Bazaar is scheduled for Friday, March 30, Saturday, March 31 & Sunday, April 1, 2018. (The […]
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Saturday Safari – If I Ran the Zoo
Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. You can join, too! Learn what it takes to keep animals in a zoo. Go behind the scenes to learn more about zoo operations. Classes are designed to give students an opportunity to learn more about exotic animals in the wild and in captivity and […]
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Animal Play Day – Easter Theme
Animal Play Days are scheduled events where Zoo animals are given an enrichment item that has a specific theme. The theme for this Animal Play Day is Easter egg hunt. Come watch as our zookeepers prepare an Easter egg hunt for our Zoo animals featuring decorated ostrich eggs, painted eggs and Easter baskets. The schedule […]
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Saturday Safari – Habitat Sweet Habitat
Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. You can join, too! Learn what animals consider home. Identify various animal homes by the elements present that make it perfectly suitable for living. Classes are designed to give students an opportunity to learn more about exotic animals in the wild and in captivity and […]
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World Oceans Day
There are so many ways you can make a difference for our oceans. World Oceans Day is a global day of ocean celebration and collaboration for a better future. The day will feature activities, speakers and exhibitors in our Special Events Building from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for educational booths and exhibits, plus, activities for the […]
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Zoo Family Starlight Sleepover
Challenge your senses to observe nocturnal animals! Tour the Zoo at night! It’s a sleepover in a nice air-conditioned building. Enjoy games, a pizza party, an early morning outdoor breakfast and more! The cost is $35 per person. The minimum age level for a Starlight Sleepover is 7. For more information or to register for […]
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Brownsville Discount Days
As a big thank you to the residents of Brownsville for their constant support, the Gladys Porter Zoo will offer an entire weekend of admission discounts for all residents living inside the Brownsville city limits. From Friday, September 7th through Sunday, September 9th, Brownsville residents will be able to visit the Zoo for the special […]
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Lower Valley Appreciation Days
All residents living in the Lower Valley will be able to visit the Zoo for the special admission price. The Lower Valley includes: Arroyo City, Bayview, Bluetown, Brownsville, Calaboz, Carricitos, Combes, El Ranchito, Harlingen, La Feria, La Leona, La Paloma, La Tina, Laguna Heights, Laguna Vista, Lantana, Las Rusias, Las Yescas, Laureles, Los Coyotes, Los […]
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Saturday Safari – Animal Tails
Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. You can join, too! Long ones… short ones… they all have a good use. Let’s search the Zoo for different and fascinating animal tails. Classes are designed to give students an opportunity to learn more about exotic animals in the wild and in captivity and […]
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29th Annual Boo at the Zoo
[rev_slider slider10] The Gladys Porter Zoo will hold its 29th annual Boo at the Zoo celebration Tuesday, October 30th and Wednesday, October 31st from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (The date on the left-hand side is the start date of Boo at the Zoo.) Become a Zoo member and you are eligible to come in early […]
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Saturday Safari – Living Dinosaurs
Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. You can join, too! Scientists believe that modern birds are decedents of dinosaurs. This makes birds even more fascinating! Do you know your birds? Let’s explore the zoo for birds. Some have long legs; some have webbed feet; and some are quite large. Let’s see […]
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Saturday Safari – Habitat Sweet Habitat
Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. You can join, too! Learn where and what animals consider home. Identify various animal homes by the elements present that make it perfectly suitable for living. Classes are designed to give students an opportunity to learn more about exotic animals in the wild and in […]
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A Salute to our Troops Appreciation Day
The Gladys Porter Zoo will honor all current and former military members and their families with a special discount day on Saturday and Sunday, November 10th & 11th. Military members and their families receive a special admission rate of $3.00 per person with a military ID, retiree ID or a VA card.
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Gladys Porter Zoo Staff Welcomes New Rhino
After months of hard work, it is with great joy that Zoo staff introduced its newest member, Bebop, a five year old male Southern white rhino, to the crash, which is what a group of rhinos is called, and all three are now on display for the public to view. So, make plans to visit […]
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Black Friday Promotion
Purchase a membership at the Zoo or online and get 4 free feeding opportunity tickets. Select a voucher for a giraffe, flamingo, stingray or Galapagos tortoise feeding opportunity. The feedings are available during public feeding days and hours. Offer valid on Thursday, November 22, to Monday, November 26, 2018. If you stop by the Zoo to […]
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Zoo Nights & Lights – December 7, 8 & 9, 2018
Zoo Nights & Lights is a holiday tradition to behold. Everyone will enjoy live performances from local bands and choirs while taking in the dazzling light displays. Browse for holiday gifts at our arts and crafts show. And, kids can decorate a gingerbread cookie and make a craft. The Gladys Porter Zoo invites Rio Grande […]
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Saturday Safari – Pets 101
Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. You can join, too. Are you ready for a pet? Come learn from the animal experts about taking care of animals. Get your pet questions answered at the Zoo. Classes are designed to give students an opportunity to learn more about exotic animals in the […]
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Holiday Find the Elf Quest
It’s been reported that an elf named Sparky has come to the Gladys Porter Zoo and has been sighted in various areas throughout the Zoo. Our sources tell us that he comes from the North Pole and was sent by Santa to decide whether our animals have been naughty or nice. He has been reporting […]
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Animal Play Day – Joy of Gift Giving
Stop by the Zoo for our “Christmas” themed Animal Play Day to watch our animals interact with special “gift” treats and enrichment items provided by our zookeepers. Animal Play Days are scheduled events where Zoo animals are given an enrichment item that has a specific theme. Animal enrichment provides novel food and play items to […]
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Rocket Launch Party
This year’s Zoofari fundraising event offered many exciting auction items, including the opportunity to name the youngest member of the giraffe herd, a female giraffe born on August 9th. After the high bidding couple, Terry and Laurie Ray, offered to make donation to the Zoo and allow someone else the opportunity match their donation for […]
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Saturday Safari – Top Zoo Chef
Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. You can join, too! Zoo dieticians have to prepare meals for lots of animals every day. Come help feed some of the zoo’s animals after you learn what they eat. Classes are designed to give students an opportunity to learn more about exotic animals in […]
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Wild Tales 2019
Come listen to a story, meet some of the Zoo’s Animal Ambassadors and even get a free book while supplies last. Storytelling, face painting, crafts and special play stations will be set-up on Zoo grounds. Tales begin at 10:00 a.m. and end at 3:00 p.m. During Wild Tales everyone gets the discounted school rate to […]
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Saturday Safari – River Giants
Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. You can join, too. Lurking among the plants in the water is a master hunter ready to pounce and devour an unsuspecting fish. Alligator gar are common in fresh waters in the southern U.S. and can grow up to 10 feet in length. Classes are […]
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Jr. Zookeeper Camp
Join the few, the proud, and the hard-working staff that gets to work with wild animals. Find out what it takes to take care of animals and get to help with some of the daily chores at the zoo. The Starlight Safari sleepover is at 6:30 pm on March 16th. (Minimum Age: 7) Hours: 8:30 […]
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Bunny Corral
Everyone is invited to “hop” on over to the Zoo’s bunny corral from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Bunny Corral, a visitor’s favorite, will be open across from Small World. The bunnies will be available to pet and docents will be on hand to answer questions about the adorable animals. On Easter Sunday, only the […]
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Saturday Safari – Extreme Life Cycles
Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. You can join, too! What creature begins its life with no wings, but can eventually fly? Some of the world’s smallest creatures undergo the most extreme physical changes during their life cycle. Come see first-hand the metamorphosis of some of the zoo’s creatures. Classes are designed […]
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Animal Play Day – Mother’s Day
Join us for a Mother’s Day themed Animal Play Day at the Orangutan Palapa. Participate in fun educational activities and coloring from 11:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the Orangutan Palapa. Our mother and daughter orangutan pair will be also receiving enrichment from their keepers at the following times: 11:00 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 […]
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Baby Gorilla Gender Reveal
Our proud gorilla parents, 11-year-old Margaret & 26-year-old Mbundi, as well as the entire Gladys Porter Zoo staff, are excited about the birth of a baby Western lowland gorilla. The baby, weighing in at 2.22 kg (4.8 lbs), was born in the early morning hours on Sunday, May 5th. To celebrate this Cinco de Mayo […]
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Summer Safari
What is your child doing this summer? Why not spend the summer learning at the Gladys Porter Zoo? Summer Safari is the perfect place for your little one. Each day includes fun-filled activities such as puppet shows, games, stories, crafts, sing-a-longs and tours. Children will have the opportunity to explore our Zoo in a fun, […]
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World Giraffe Day
What is World Giraffe Day? It is a world-wide day of recognition for the longest necked animal on the planet. Take part in World Giraffe Day, established by the Giraffe Conservation Foundation. During World Giraffe Day, the Zoo will have our Giraffe Landing Feeding Experience open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 100% of […]
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Go on an adventure with your child around the Zoo at the 16th Annual Kids Appreciation Day presented by H-E-B and News Center 23. Kids Appreciation Day coincides with National KidsDay, which is a day set aside each year to celebrate and honor America’s children by spending meaningful time with them. Every child receives a […]
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Brownsville Discount Days
As a big thank you to the residents of Brownsville for their constant support, the Gladys Porter Zoo will offer an entire weekend of admission discounts for all residents living inside the Brownsville city limits. From Friday, September 6th through Sunday, September 8th, Brownsville residents will be able to visit the Zoo for the special admission […]
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Lower Valley Discount Days
All residents living in the Lower Valley will be able to visit the Zoo for the special admission price. The Lower Valley includes: Arroyo City, Bayview, Bluetown, Brownsville, Calaboz, Carricitos, Combes, El Ranchito, Harlingen, La Feria, La Leona, La Paloma, La Tina, Laguna Heights, Laguna Vista, Lantana, Las Rusias, Las Yescas, Laureles, Los Coyotes, Los […]
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Zoofari 2019
You’re invited to an otterly fantastic Zoofari 2019. It’s the biggest fundraiser of the year, Zoofari 2019 on Saturday, October 5th from 6:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Slide your way on over and support the Zoo while enjoying great food, auctions and music. Every bid supports the Zoo: Proceeds from Zoofari will go towards the new OtterBahn exhibit, […]
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Upper Valley Discount Days
All residents living in the Upper Valley (Hidalgo or Starr Counties) will be able to visit the Zoo for the special admission price. The Upper Valley includes: Alamo, Alton, Cantu, Donna, Edcouch, Edinburg, Elsa, Faysville, Granjeno, Hargill, Heidelberg, Hidalgo, La Blanca, La Joya, La Villa, Las Milpas, Linn, Lopezville, Mercedes, McAllen, McCook, Mission, Monte Alto, […]
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Saturday Safari – Creature Feature
Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. You can join, too! Do you know why animals have such unique characteristics? How can birds fly, fish swim and polar bears survive in freezing temperatures? Let’s take a closer look at some zoo creatures and talk features. Classes are designed to give students an […]
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Saturday Safari – Bugs! Bugs! Bugs!
Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. You can join, too! Come meet the Zoo’s beautiful bugs and learn about many different kinds of arthropods. Get a special tour of the Butterfly Exhibit. Classes are designed to give students an opportunity to learn more about exotic animals in the wild and in […]
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Saturday Safari – Creatures of the Night
Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. You can join, too! The sun sets and it’s time to get up and search for something to eat. These creatures come out at night. This is your chance to learn all about the animals that hunt in the dark and those that use the […]
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30th Annual Boo at the Zoo
The Gladys Porter Zoo will hold its 30th annual Boo at the Zoo celebration Wednesday, October 30th and Thursday, October 31st from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (The date on the left-hand side is the start date of Boo at the Zoo.) Become a Zoo member and you are eligible to come in early during the members’s only […]
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Saturday Safari – Who’s on the Menu
Enroll your child for Saturday morning fun at the Zoo. You can join, too. All living things have a connection to one another, like links to a chain. Come explore “links” in food chains and what makes up the food web. Classes are designed to give students an opportunity to learn more about exotic animals […]
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Animal Play Day
Animal Play Days are scheduled events where Zoo animals are given an enrichment item that has a specific theme. The theme for this Animal Play Day is Thanksgiving theme. Staff will be giving the animals turkey, pumpkins or pie. Starting at Gorilla Island around 11:30 a.m., staff will walk around the Zoo giving enrichment items […]
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Zoo Nights & Lights – December 6, 7 & 9, 2019
Zoo Nights & Lights is a holiday tradition to behold. Everyone will enjoy live performances from local bands and choirs while taking in the dazzling light displays. Browse for holiday gifts at our arts and crafts show. And, kids can decorate a gingerbread cookie and make a craft. The Gladys Porter Zoo invites Rio Grande […]
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Animal Play Day – Holiday Gift Giving
Stop by the Zoo for our “holiday gift giving” themed Animal Play Day to watch our animals interact with special “gift” treats and enrichment items provided by our zookeepers. Animal Play Days are scheduled events where Zoo animals are given an enrichment item that has a specific theme. Animal enrichment provides novel food and play […]
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Winter Texan Discount Day
All Winter Texans will be able to visit the Zoo for a special admission price of $4.50. Walking tours, and train tours will also be conducted throughout the duration of the event. Complimentary coffee will be available in the special events building, while supplies last. Guests must show proof of out-of-state residence in order to receive the discounted admission […]
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Wild Tales 2020
Come listen to a story, meet some of the Zoo’s Animal Ambassadors and even get a free book while supplies last. Storytelling, face painting, crafts and special play stations will be set-up on Zoo grounds. Tales begin at 10:00 a.m. and end at 3:00 p.m. During Wild Tales everyone gets the discounted school rate to […]
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Animal Play Day – Valentine’s Theme
Stop by the Zoo for our “Valentine’s Day” themed Animal Play Day to watch our animals interact with special treats and enrichment items provided by our zookeepers. Animal enrichment provides novel food and play items to stimulate and entertain our Zoo inhabitants. These enrichment items are a vital component to the health and well-being of […]
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Virtual Animal Play Day
Tune in for our virtual “Valentine’s Day” themed Animal Play Day to watch our animals interact with special treats and enrichment items provided by our zookeepers. Animal enrichment provides novel food and play items to stimulate and entertain our Zoo inhabitants. These enrichment items are a vital component to the health and well-being of our animal […]
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Virtual Wild Tales
For 18 years, the Gladys Porter Zoo has hosted Wild Tales at the Zoo. Unfortunately, this year that was not possible due to our current circumstances, therefore; it will be presented virtually on Sunday, March 7, 2021. Staring at 10:00 a.m., it will launch on Facebook and YouTube. Stories will be read by the […]
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Virtual Party for the Planet
Party for the Planet is the Zoo’s celebration of Earth Day where we bring eco-conscious members of the community together to help share the message of conservation. This year, our event will be virtual. The Zoo will spotlight conservation with fun activities, crafts, and virtual animal encounters. Local organizations will also be part of the […]
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Ridley Rush 2021
You are invited to join us for our 5th Annual Ridley Rush 1 Mile Walk /Run. This family fun run aims to raise awareness for the endangered Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle. The Ridley Rush route will take you through the beautiful and scenic Gladys Porter Zoo as you experience what a baby sea turtle must endure on its […]
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World Giraffe Day
Join us this weekend as we celebrate #WorldGiraffeDay! Aside from the Giraffe Landing Feeding Experience, there will be giraffe-themed activities and crafts from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. On Saturday, you can Meet the Vet, Dr. Tom deMaar. from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Plus, RGV AAZAK Chapter will be accepting donations that will go directly to […]
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Virtual Kids Appreciation Day
Gladys Porter Zoo will celebrate National Kids Day by hosting the 17th Annual Kids Appreciation Day. National Kids Day is a day set aside each year to celebrate and honor America’s children by spending meaningful time with them. In the past, during Kids Appreciation Day, children would have the opportunity to make a passport that would […]
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Brownsville Discount Weekend
Celebrating 50 Years: Taking It Back to 1971!!! September 3, 2021 marks the 50 year anniversary of the opening of the Gladys Porter Zoo! The staff at the Zoo is excited and ready to celebrate with the community. To commemorate this significant milestone, the Zoo will be charging the same admission rates visitors paid when […]
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50th Birthday Discount Weekends
Celebrating 50 Years: Taking It Back to 1971!!! September 3, 2021 marks the 50 year anniversary of the opening of the Gladys Porter Zoo! The staff at the Zoo is excited and ready to celebrate with the community. To commemorate this significant milestone, the Zoo will be charging the same admission rates visitors paid when […]
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Lower Valley Discount Weekend
Celebrating 50 Years: Taking It Back to 1971!!! September 3, 2021 marks the 50 year anniversary of the opening of the Gladys Porter Zoo! The staff at the Zoo is excited and ready to celebrate with the community. To commemorate this significant milestone, the Zoo will be charging the same admission rates visitors paid when […]
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Upper Valley Discount Weekend
Celebrating 50 Years: Taking It Back to 1971!!! September 3, 2021 marks the 50 year anniversary of the opening of the Gladys Porter Zoo! The staff at the Zoo is excited and ready to celebrate with the community. To commemorate this significant milestone, the Zoo will be charging the same admission rates visitors paid when […]
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Zoofari 2021
It’s been a wild 50 years at the Gladys Porter Zoo! You’re invited to celebrate this historic milestone, at Zoofari 2021, the Zoo’s biggest fundraiser of the year on October 2nd. The golden gala will be an elegant evening featuring mouthwatering food, one-of-a-kind auction items and great fun! Every bid helps us continue to inspire, educate […]
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Out of Valley Discount Weekend
Celebrating 50 Years: Taking It Back to 1971!!! September 3, 2021 marks the 50 year anniversary of the opening of the Gladys Porter Zoo! The staff at the Zoo is excited and ready to celebrate with the community. To commemorate this significant milestone, the Zoo will be charging the same admission rates visitors paid when […]
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Thrills and Chills Train Tour
While Boo at the Zoo won’t be possible this year, we’ve devised a safer way to spend a spooky night at the Zoo. Take a moonlit train ride thru the Zoo but beware creatures may be lurking in the shadows. Reserve your spot for the Thrills and Chills Train Tour, reserve with caution as this […]
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Zoo Nights & Lights 2021
Zoo Nights & Lights is a holiday tradition to behold. Everyone will enjoy live performances from local bands and choirs while taking in the dazzling light displays. Browse for holiday gifts at our arts and crafts show. The Gladys Porter Zoo invites Rio Grande Valley residents and visitors to its annual holiday celebration on December […]
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Virtual Wild Tales 2022
Happy National Read Across America Day! Check out our VIRTUAL Wild Tales presentation below with fun stories and animal presentations for kids of all ages.
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Ocelot Conservation Day
Join us in celebrating the beautiful ocelot of the Rio Grande Valley at Ocelot Conservation Day! The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Friends of Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge and the Gladys Porter Zoo are hosting a special day to highlight ocelots, the small, wild cats native to South Texas. There will be […]
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Party for the Planet
Party for the Planet is the Zoo’s celebration of Earth Day where we bring eco-conscious members of the community together to help share the message of conservation. From 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. the Zoo will spotlight conservation with fun activities, face painting, and contests for children. Local organizations will also be present to discuss […]
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Brew at the Zoo
There’s something brewing at the Zoo and you won’t want to miss out! Raise your glasses for animal conservation at the 8th Annual Brew at the Zoo. Brew at the Zoo will be held on Saturday, May 21, 2022 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with live music until 10:00 p.m. Support your local Zoo and […]
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Ridley Rush
You are invited to join us for our 6th Annual Ridley Rush 1 Mile Walk /Run. This family fun run aims to raise awareness for the endangered Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle. The Ridley Rush route will take you through the beautiful and scenic Gladys Porter Zoo as you experience what a baby sea turtle must endure on its […]
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Endangered Baby Giraffe Lands at Zoo
March 17, 2022Rocket, a beloved giraffe at the Gladys Porter Zoo, became a mother for the first time; she gave birth to a calf on February 23rd. The male calf was born on exhibit but was placed behind-the-scenes in a private barn to bond with mom. He is now ready to launch into visitors’ hearts and can […]
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The Passing of an Iconic Gorilla Patriarch
February 24, 2022Gladys Porter Zoo staff are mourning the passing of Lamydoc (pronounced luh-MY-dok), the patriarch of the Zoo’s multi-generational Western lowland gorilla troop. On the afternoon of February 22nd, Lamydoc was humanely euthanized due to declining health. He was estimated to be approximately 60 years old, well past the average life expectancy for Western lowland gorillas. […]
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Cassowary Chicks Make Public Debut
January 6, 2022Gladys Porter Zoo staff is excited to announce that our three baby cassowaries are now on exhibit for the public to see. Tobin, Heath and Powell are located right next to their parents at the Australian Exhibit. We can’t wait for you to meet them! It had been 24 years since our last successful cassowary brood […]
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Zoo Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Social Media Campaign
April 8, 2021On September 3rd, 2021, the Gladys Porter Zoo will be celebrating its 50th anniversary. It was on a Friday in 1971 that the Zoo lifted its gate to the public for the first time. To celebrate its 50th birthday, the Gladys Porter Zoo will be launching a social media campaign, which aims to highlight the wonderful community […]