On Exhibit in Colder Weather

What animals will you see on a visit to the Zoo during the winter months?

See below for a list of the exhibits and species you’re likely to encounter during winter months at the Zoo. Which animals you see is largely dependent upon weather conditions. During extremely cold temperatures, this list may change due to the needs of our animals. While every effort is made to allow our guests to view the animals, the health and safety of the Zoo’s wildlife is considered first.

Look for updates and any weather-related closings on our homepage and Facebook page.

Schaefer Plaza

• Prairie dogs will remain on exhibit. They may choose to stay underground in extreme winter conditions but will likely be out regularly throughout the winter.

• The grizzly bears will be off exhibit until spring as they naturally hibernate and will be spending significant amounts of time in their dens.
• The bald eagle will remain on exhibit.

Penguin Coast

• African penguins will have outdoor access and may be visible, especially during feeding time (10:30 and 3:30 daily).
• Penguin Encounters are available all year round – PLUS! Gift an Encounter.
• White-breasted cormorants will remain on exhibit as weather allows.

African Journey

• Red-crested pochards will remain on exhibit in the African Aviary, all other birds are off exhibit for the season.
• The Chimpanzee Forest will remain open and guests will see chimps, colobus monkeys, lemurs, and Panamanian golden frogs indoors. Several chimp groups will rotate through the indoor chimp habitat, so baby chimpanzees Lola & Violet will be regularly viewable but may not be out all day.
• The Giraffe House will remain open and giraffe and okapi can be viewed indoors. Due to potential heat loss in the building, if the temperature drops too low, the building may need to be closed early.
• Flamingos will be on exhibit throughout the winter and are typically not affected by colder weather.
• Zebra and ostrich will be outdoors on days when the temperature allows (typically 40+ degrees).
• Stubby the rhino has departed for a new facility and the new male rhinos will not be viewable over the winter season.
• The Amur leopard, cheetahs, and lions will be visible on exhibit for most of the season. They are sometimes out in the snow!
• Addra gazelle, lesser kudu, and warthogs may be visible in their outdoor habitats if the temperature is over 40 and weather conditions are appropriate. Additionally, the Cape porcupines may be visible in their outdoor habitats if the temperature is over 35 and weather conditions are appropriate.
• Elephants will be on exhibit as temperatures and habitat conditions allow. Generally, if the temperature dips below 40 degrees it’s likely they will be indoors and not visible.

Maryland Wilderness

• Bobcats and otters are on exhibit in all weather.
• The Giant Tree habitat, Cave, Giant Tree Slide, and Eastern hellbender habitat in the Maryland Wilderness area are closed for the health and comfort of our guests during Covid-19.
• The Marsh Aviary will be open but expect to see fewer avian species than during the regular season.
• The Farmyard area will be open weather permitting. Alpaca, sheep, donkeys, pigs, goats, and peafowl are visible there throughout the winter.

Rides, Concessions & Gift Shop

• The Zoo’s Whistle Stop Grille will remain open throughout the season with a full menu of options.
• The carousel is open with modified operations and will be open as weather allows.
• The train ride is currently closed for the health and comfort of our guests during Covid-19.
• The Zoo’s Wild Things Gift Shop will remain open throughout the season. NEW! Purchase a souvenir from the gift shop online.

Have a question about a specific animal or exhibit? Email us at info@marylandzoo.org or call 443.992.4585.