The unique climate in South Florida allows them to keep a wide variety of animals from Asia, Australia and Africa, representing a broad mix of species that is unlike any other zoo in the country.

Their animals are grouped according to their geographic territories, with species that live together peacefully in the wild placed in exhibits together here at the zoo. Their trees, foliage and even their soil are matched as closely as possible to the native habitats of their animals.

As one of the first free-range zoos in the United States, Zoo Miami's exhibits are entirely cageless.

The history of the zoo can be traced back to 1948, with what was then known as the Crandon Park Zoo on the island of Key Biscayne, just off the coast of downtown Miami. At that time, the zoo occupied 48 acres of the park and its first animals included some lions, an elephant and a rhinoceros that had been stranded when a circus went out of business in Miami.

Zoo Miami today occupies almost 750 acres, and is home to more than 3,000 animals representing over 500 different species. Of this population, more than 40 species are classified as endangered. The zoo also houses more than 1,000 species of trees, palms and other plants, and over 100 special exhibits showcasing a broad number of species and scientific topics.

They are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums which means they have passed a rigorous application and inspection process and meet or exceed the AZA's standards for animal health and welfare, fundraising, zoo staffing, and involvement in global conservation efforts.

Zoo Miami is proud to be an active leader in many global wildlife and environmental conservation initiatives, and we are currently involved in over 36 projects taking place on six continents.