Photographer: Kevin Stillman

Unique zoological park with virtually all animals living in open exhibits surrounded by natural flowing waterways. It contains more than 1,391 specimens representing some 360 species, 43 of which are listed as endan-gered. Vegetation throughout the zoo is comprised of more than 250 species and sub-species of tropical and neo-tropical plants. Sections of the zoo include:

Tropical America where visitors will see jaguars, Galapagos tortoises, macaws, Caribbean flamingos, spider monkeys, and Cuban croc-odiles from the tropics.

Indo-Australia features orangutans, grey kangaroos, kookaburras, agile wallabys, and black swans, along with other animals.

Asia, where a large variety of animals includes tigers, gaurs, Przewalski's horse, pileated gibbons, Indian blue peafowl, and Bactrian camels.

Africa, which contains the more popular zoo animals including reticulated giraffes, African elephants, Grant's zebras, African lions, western lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, and other animals, along with one of the rarest antelopes in the world, the Jentink's duiker.

A Children's Zoo and Nursery features a contact yard, allowing visitors to interact with Nigerian dwarf goats, miniature mules, and domestic chickens.

The Herpetarium and Aquatic Wing contains a large collection of lizards, turtles, snakes, gila monsters, and some rare crocodilians, along with both fresh and saltwater fish from around the world, with emphasis on the Texas Gulf Coast area.

Other exhibits include a Free-Flight Aviary, bear grottos, and a California sea lion exhibit.

Gladys Porter Zoo is one of the top-rated zoos in the country. Strollers, wheelchairs, and wagons are available for rent at the Zoofari Gift Shop, or find souvenirs. All facilities accessible by wheelchair. For information, call 956/546-2177 or 956/546-7187. Admission fee.