Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, located in Omaha, Nebraska, is a premier zoological institution renowned for its extensive collection of animals, innovative exhibits, and commitment to conservation and education.

Spanning over 130 acres, the zoo is home to approximately 9,000 animals representing 962 species. It attracts over 2 million visitors annually.

Major Exhibits and Attractions

• Lied Jungle: One of the world's largest indoor rainforests, this exhibit immerses visitors in diverse ecosystems. It features species such as orangutans, tigers, and various birds.
• Desert Dome: The world's largest indoor desert, showcasing desert habitats from around the globe including the Namib Desert and Sonoran Desert. It houses animals like the African wild cat and Cape cobra.
• Kingdoms of the Night: Located beneath the Desert Dome, this is the largest nocturnal animal exhibit. It features species such as the fossa, aardvark, and various bat species.
• Scott Aquarium: Renovated in 2012, it features naturalistic displays of aquatic habitats from polar regions, temperate oceans, coral reefs, and the Amazon. A highlight is the Shark Reef, a 70-foot tunnel where guests see sharks, sea turtles, and rays.
• Asian Highlands: Opened in phases starting in 2018, this exhibit recreates the highlands of central Asia with species like the Indian rhinoceros, red panda, and snow leopard.
• Expedition Madagascar: Opened in 2010 and renovated in 2021, showcasing the unique flora and fauna of Madagascar including lemurs, fossa, and various reptiles.
• Owen Sea Lion Shores: Opened in 2020, this exhibit features a 275,000-gallon saltwater pool with natural wave chambers, shallow beaches for young pups learning to swim, and an underwater viewing cavern.

Conservation and Education

The zoo is dedicated to conservation efforts through its Center for Conservation and Research. Key areas include conservation genetics, conservation medicine, rare plant conservation, reproductive sciences, and comparative nutrition.

Additionally, the Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park near Ashland, Nebraska, is a 440-acre drive-through wildlife park affiliated with the zoo. It features native North American animals like bison, elk, and wolves.

Visitor Experience

Visitors can enjoy attractions such as the Omaha Zoo Railroad, a 2.5-mile narrow gauge train that loops through the zoo, and the tram, a trackless vehicle with multiple stops around the park.

The zoo offers educational programs, classes, and camps for all ages, along with special events throughout the year.

Location

• Omaha, NE, USA

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium continues to evolve, offering visitors a chance to explore diverse ecosystems, encounter a wide array of animal species, and engage in meaningful conservation and educational experiences.