Is the Zoo really going to start charging admission?
With the state of California and the City of Eureka's budget crisis, the City has had to implement severe budget cuts, as much as 20%. Implementing an admission fee will enable us to get through these lean times without impacting the quality of our animal's daily lives or the quality of experience offered to visitors.
More about Zoo Admission.
Where is Bill the chimpanzee?
Resident at the Sequoia Park Zoo for fifty years and one of the oldest chimpanzees in captivity, Bill was more than sixty years old when he passed away quietly in the company of his Zookeepers and Veterinarian just before 7pm on Tuesday June 26th.
His former habitat has been converted to a new area known as "Bill's Garden." The garden is a quiet corner in which to reflect, enjoy the zoo and read about the history of Chimpanzees at the Sequoia Park Zoo.
More about Bill the Chimpanzee.
How is the zoo funded?
The zoo is operated by the City of Eureka. Funding for all operational costs (animal food, vet care, keeper salaries, etc) is provided through the City’s general fund. Capital improvements such as the new Barnyard and Entry Pavilion facilities were funded entirely from private donations and grants. The Zoo Foundation is the fund-raising organization that supports the zoo, through Gift Shop and food sales, memberships, and other fundraising activities.
Why doesn’t our zoo have the big zoo animals like elephants and lions?
Our zoo is unique in its size – we are one of the smallest accredited zoos in the country. On only 5 acres, we have very limited space for large exhibits. Although zoos in the past may have displayed animals in small cages, this practice is no longer acceptable. Since large animals usually need large spaces (and large food budgets), we feel our best effort is to focus on a variety of smaller but equally interesting animals that we have the resources to accommodate.
How do the flamingos stay pink?
Wild flamingos eat small animals and plants that contain a naturally occurring pigment that turns some of the flamingos’ feathers pink. Our flamingos eat a specially formulated diet that contains the same pigment. Without it, the flamingos would look white!
Why are some of the animals hard to find?
The animal exhibits are designed so that animals have places to sleep and hide if they wish. Some animals are naturally less active during the middle of the day. The birds are more active in the morning and late afternoons, as are some of the other animals in the zoo. They can almost always be seen at those times of the day.
Can I bring my pet to the zoo?
Please don’t! Zoo animals can become alarmed at the sight of strange animals. More importantly, your pet can transmit diseases to the zoo animals, and vice versa. It is for the safety of all the animals that we do not allow pets in the zoo.
Is food available at the zoo?
The Zoo Café is located inside the new Entry Pavilion, and is currently open Tuesdays - Sundays from 11 to 4:00. Our menu includes grilled burgers, dogs, and chicken, espresso and cold drinks, ice cream, popcorn, and more! Stop by for lunch or an afternoon snack, and help the zoo improve at the same time!
When are the animals fed?
Feeding times vary throughout the day, so it’s best to ask a staff member during your visit.
When will the zoo get more animals?
We have ongoing projects and plans for new features at the zoo, including new animal habitats. These projects vary in size and scope – the smaller ones will be developed within the upcoming year, and larger projects may take a few years to accomplish. Rest assured, Sequoia Park Zoo will be adding more animals and exhibits in the near future! Please visit regularly to watch our progress!
