Tucked away in the Texas Hill Country just west of town, the Austin Zoo and Animal Sanctuary shelters more than 300 animals representing 100 species. Among the more exotic creatures housed at the zoo are a variety of great cats, including Bengal tigers and jaguars.
Since 2010 the zoo has also been home to a pair of African lions believed to belong to the subspecies of Barbary lions, now extinct in the wild. This pair has been bred, producing two cubs. The zoo has also provided DNA samples to the Barbary Lion Project.
The zoo is not large, so visitors who expect an attraction comparable to more famous, well-funded organizations such as the San Diego Zoo may be disappointed. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more relaxed and intimate setting will enjoy the Austin Zoo.
Situated on land once occupied by a goat ranch, the zoo began in 1990 as the Good Day Ranch, which was established to provide a home for animals in need. The ranch changed its name to the Austin Zoo and Animal Sanctuary in 1994.
Because its mission is to rescue animals in need, the zoo provides opportunities not available at bigger zoos. Volunteers may help with animal care, landscaping and office work. The zoo also seeks the help of groups for special projects.
Guests who care to interact with some of the domestic animals on site may pet, or even feed, goats, sheep, llamas and deer. Children will also enjoy a train ride through the grounds.
The zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. from February 1 through October 31, and from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. November 1 through January 31. The zoo is closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
To reach the zoo, drive west on U.S. Highway 290 out of Austin. Turn right on Circle Drive. After a little more than a mile, turn right on Rawhide Trail. You will not see a sign for the zoo until you reach Rawhide Trail. The zoo is at 10807 Rawhide Trail.
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