If you thought Spring Training was over, guess again! It’s still underway at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. The animals and keepers at the Wild Wonders Outdoor Theater are preparing for their popular summer show. The show returns with a new theme this year, “Zoo’s Got Mail,” on May 3, and runs daily at 11:30 a.m. […]
Meet Riley
Meet Riley! Our newest addition, a 13-year-old female harbor seal, joined our family from Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. Riley is settling in nicely and getting comfortable in her new home. Her keepers say she is a bit shy but incredibly sweet as she’s adjusting to life here. Guests can see Riley in the Rocky Shores […]
Top Spring Break Adventures at the Zoo
Get ready for a wild Spring Break at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, open daily from 9am to 3:30pm starting March 31! Whether you’re looking for hands-on fun, unforgettable animal encounters, or thrilling adventures, here’s the list of the top things to do during your visit: Explore the Mission Safari Adventure MazeEmbark on an epic […]
Microsoft recognizes everyday changemakers
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium: Dr. Karen Wolf and the Animal Care Team From polar bears to beavers, zebra sharks to sea stars, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is home to over 9,000 animals, each requiring specialized care and attention. It’s no small feat to ensure that every animal receives the best medical care possible, […]
A Big Move for Our Nurse Sharks
Exciting changes are happening to our aquariums as we move our four nurse sharks from the Outer Reef habitat in the Tropical Reef Aquarium to their new home, the Baja Bay habitat in the Pacific Seas Aquarium. This move is part of our ongoing efforts to provide the best care for our animals while also creating an engaging and educational […]
Top Rainy Day Activities At The Zoo
When it’s wet and cold outside, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and meet amazing animals! Warm, Indoor Aquariums The Pacific Seas Aquarium is indoors and heated and is open year-round. Guests can see green sea turtles, a giant Pacific octopus and a variety of colorful fish and vibrant jellyfish among […]
Big Steps for Pepper the Sea Lion Pup
Pepper, our playful and curious young sea lion pup, is growing more independent every day! As she gets bigger, she’s reaching some important milestones that will help her thrive. Pepper continues to nurse and bond with her mom, Eloise, and has integrated well with all of the seals and sea lions, including her dad, Boomer. […]
Introducing Ume
And… it’s a girl! We’re excited to share that our rare and endangered Malayan tapir calf has been named Ume (pronounced oo-may), a name chosen by her dedicated keeper staff. Ume means plum blossom and apricot in Japanese. The calf will remain behind the scenes in the Asian Forest Sanctuary, nursing and bonding with her […]
Endangered Malayan Tapir Calf Born
A rare and endangered Malayan tapir calf was born at the zoo on Sunday, February 2, marking only the second tapir birth in our 120-year history. The newborn, covered in distinctive white spots and stripes that resemble a tiny, walking watermelon, is considered healthy. Mother Yuna, 10, is also doing well, according to Head Veterinarian […]