Animal Attractions

September 5, 2013 | By Christina O Connor

Sprawled out on 42 acres at the end of Kalakaua Ave., the Honolulu Zoo was first established by King David Kalakaua, who granted the land to the people of Hawai’i. Initially a bird park, the zoo has grown to be comprised of 880 individual animals of more than 125 species that include elephants, lions, tigers, monkeys, tortoises, lemurs and more.

The zoo is still renowned for its bird collection, particularly the birds of paradise, and is the only establishment to breed certain species.

In recent months, the zoo also has welcomed on a number of exciting new additions, including wart hog babies and flamingos.

“One of the biggest highlights has been the lion cubs,” acting director of Honolulu Zoo Baird Flemming says. “The cubs are usually out there just romping all around.”

(Another new addition to the zoo in recent months is zoo director, Jeffrey Mahon.)

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For an interactive experience that’s perfect for children, head to the keiki zoo area, which features a small petting zoo, as well as guided encounters with various critters. And as of recently, keiki can have even more encounters with new additions such as iguanas, chameleons, ferrets and a skunk.

Entrance is $14 for adults, $6 for children under 13, $8 for kama’aina and military, $4 for kama’aina and military children under 13. Children 2 and under get in free. The zoo is open 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; the ticket office closes at 4:30 p.m.

Honolulu Zoo
151 Kapahulu Ave. [C:12 Waikiki Map]
(808) 971-7171
www.honoluluzoo.org