What animals will you see on a visit to the Zoo during the winter months?

See below for a list of the exhibits and species you’re likely to encounter during winter months at the Zoo. Which animals you see is largely dependent upon weather conditions. During extremely cold temperatures, this list may change due to the needs of our animals. While every effort is made to allow our guests to view the animals, the health and safety of the Zoo’s wildlife is considered first.

Look for updates and any weather-related closings on our homepage and Facebook page.


Schaefer Plaza & Main Valley

  • Prairie dogs will remain on exhibit. They may choose to stay underground in extreme winter conditions but will likely be out regularly throughout the winter.
  • The Northern ground hornbills and crowned cranes in Main Valley may be visible when it’s above 40.

 


Northern Passage

  • The grizzly bears will be off exhibit until spring as they naturally hibernate and will be spending significant amounts of time in their dens.
  • The bald eagle will remain on exhibit.

Penguin Coast

 

 


African Journey

  • Red-crested pochards and Helmeted Guinea Fowl will remain on exhibit in the African Aviary, all other birds are off exhibit for the season.
  • The Chimpanzee Forest will remain open and guests will see chimps, colobus monkeys, lemurs, Schmidt’s red-tailed guenon, and Panamanian golden frogs indoors. Several chimp groups will rotate through the indoor chimp habitat, so baby chimpanzees Maisie, Lola & Violet will be regularly viewable but may not be out all day.
  • The Giraffe House will remain open and giraffe and okapi can be viewed indoors. Due to potential heat loss in the building, if the temperature drops too low, the building may need to be closed early.
  • Flamingos will be on exhibit throughout the winter and are typically not affected by colder weather.
  • Rhino, zebra, and ostrich will be outdoors on days when the temperature allows (typically 40+ degrees).
  • The Amur leopard, cheetahs, and lions will be visible on exhibit for most of the season. They are sometimes out in the snow!
  • Addra gazelle, lesser kudu, and warthogs may be visible in their outdoor habitats if the temperature is over 40 and weather conditions are appropriate. Additionally, the Cape porcupines may be visible in their outdoor habitats if the temperature is over 35 and weather conditions are appropriate.
  • Elephants will be on exhibit as temperatures and habitat conditions allow. Generally, if the temperature dips below 45 degrees it’s likely they will be indoors and not visible.

Maryland Wilderness & Farmyard


Rides, Concessions & Gift Shop


Animal Outposts

  • During colder weather, animal ambassadors can typically be found in Chimp Forest and/or Penguin Education Center (staff permitting).

Animal Experiences

Buy Tickets


Zoo Lights

zoo lights presented by chase

  • A brilliant seasonal spectacle is coming to the Zoo again this winter! Drive or walk through a festival of lights shaped like wildlife and your face might just light up too. Plus, get that warm glowing feeling inside knowing you are supporting the Zoo’s animal care and conservation work.

Buy Tickets


Have a question about a specific animal or exhibit? Email us at info@marylandzoo.org or call 443.992.4585.