Zoo Animal Encounters
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Ever wanted to feed a giraffe? How about pet a sloth?
Edutainment is the name of the game at the “Little Zoo That Could.” The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo in Gulf Shores offers fun opportunities for guests to engage with the animal residents in an up-close-and-personal way. Visitors can interact with lemurs, sloths, giraffes, and tortoises with the zoo's animal encounters.
Animal Encounters at The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
Lemur Encounter (Madagascar Adventure)
Lemur Encounter (Madagascar Adventure)
Get close and playful with Madagascar’s most endangered species in the lemur playhouse with a lemur encounter! These furry, little creatures will walk across your lap, try stealing your hat, and enjoy holding your hands. You'll play with black and white ruffed and red ruffed lemurs.
Sloth Encounter (South American Adventure)
Sloth Encounter (South American Adventure)
If a slower pace is more your style, come experience the sloth encounter. Here you will learn all about the slowest animal in the world and then you may even get to feed him one of his favorite treats! You'll also get a chance to get a close up look at tortoises and macaws during this encounter.
Giraffe Feeding
Giraffe Feeding
Everyday, guests have a chance to feed the zoo's tallest residents. Giraffe feedings take place from 10-11 am and 2-3 pm, and participants will receive leaves to feed these hungry beauties. These spotted giants eat up to 70 pounds of leaves a day, so you don't have worry about them being too full to eat!
Tortoise Feeding
Tortoise Feeding
Take it slow and feed some of the zoo's oldest living residents, the Sulcata tortoises. These endangered species are the third largest tortoises in the world and have the appetite to prove it. Guests can take part in feeding them some leafy greens at their yard every day from 10:30-11:30 am and 2:30-3:30 pm. You'll learn all about the habits of these critters and even get to touch their shells.
Premium Animal Experiences
Premium Animal Experiences
Throughout the year, the zoo offers premium animal experiences, where guests can get a behind-the-scenes look at a few zoo animals. These interactions are offered for groups of four on select days. Be sure to check the zoo's website to see what's available!
