
Visit animals of all shapes and sizes at the Ararat Ridge Zoo! It’s fun for all ages and provides biblical teaching on the animal kingdom.
The zoo, Children’s Zoo, kangaroo walkabout, and animal shows are included with Ark Encounter admission. Camel rides and camel encounters have an additional cost.
Check the daily schedule for hours.
 
        Meet a variety of animal ambassadors up close during our daily animal shows! Learn what animal kinds are, why God created some animals with sharp teeth and claws, and how to be good stewards of nature during these 20-minute, family-friendly programs.
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        Enjoy a personal encounter with your favorite Ararat Ridge Zoo animals by purchasing a unique behind-the-scenes zoo experience!
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        Enjoy an unforgettable experience meeting a camel up close! Feed it some lettuce and pose for a photo!
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        Imagine you’re living in biblical times by purchasing a ride on one of our dromedary camels during select times! Your camel will be safely led by one of our zoo staff, and you’ll learn why these creatures earned the nickname “ships of the desert.”
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        During select times, stop by Junior’s Zoo Adventure to play with friendly goats in the Goat Barn, peek in on the veterinary staff in the Animal Health Lab, and learn about a variety of God’s amazing creatures.
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        Hop on by the kangaroo walkabout to take a trip Down Under and meet our red kangaroo mob up close! During select times, you'll be able to walk through this exhibit to see the largest marsupials in the world with no barriers!
Learn MoreDuring your stroll through the Ararat Ridge Zoo, you’ll encounter mammals, birds, and reptiles from every corner of the planet. It’s perfect for the budding scientists or animal lovers in your family! Keep reading to learn more about our zoo activities and to meet some of our incredible animals.
 
        The world’s largest porcupines have quills that grow up to 13 inches long!
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        Named for the striking golden plumage on their heads, these beautiful cranes are the national bird of Uganda!
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        Also known as sulcatas, these reptiles are the third largest tortoises in the world!
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        These majestic herbivores are known for their long flowing manes and their massive curved horns which can reach 33 inches in length!
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        The national symbol of the United States can dive as fast as 100 mph (161 kph) for prey!
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        Also known as bearcats, these arboreal animals are neither bear nor cat—they are civets!
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        The largest American birds may be flightless, but they can still run 40 mph (64.4 km/h)!
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        The world’s largest snakes can grow over 20 feet long and weigh over 200 pounds!
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        These upside-down oddities have an average speed of 13–15 feet per minute!
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        These large Australian lizards have long claws, powerful tails, and venomous bites.
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        Named for their distinctive calls, these Australian birds are the largest kingfishers in the world.
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        Named for their resemblance to caimans, these colorful lizards are excellent climbers and swimmers.
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        Like all lemurs, these primates are native only to Madagascar and are named for the 13 black and white rings that pattern their tails.
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        These birds are important for insect control and seed dispersal in the African scrubs and savannas.
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        Zebras, donkeys, and horses belong to the same created kind and can hybridize. You can see our zonkey and zorse together in our equine kind exhibit!
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