Veterans’ Appreciation Days
Immediate family members receive half-off general admission. Offer valid at Zoo admission window. Offer is not valid on online purchases.
Sven, the Arctic fox, has returned to exploring his habitat in the Arctic Tundra area of the zoo, now accompanied by a new female companion! One-year-old Freya joined Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in late spring. While construction was underway in their area, Sven and Freya have been acquainting themselves behind the scenes. According to keepers, Freya is a curious fox who enjoys exploring her new home and interacting with enrichment items. “She’s very fast, intelligent, and attentive during training…
Meet Pepper, a one-month-old sea lion pup at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. Adoring fans voted online for her name, chosen from a slate of four names offered by keepers at the Tacoma zoo. Out of more than 10,500 votes, Pepper was a clear winner, with 31% of the vote, and the runner-ups were Rosa (26%), Nori (23%), and Marnie (20%). Why Pepper? Keepers say that despite fighting off a respiratory infection shortly after birth, she was strong and…
The Tropical Reef Aquarium at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium reopened in June after extensive restoration and repair of critical animal-care structures, habitats, and life support systems. The 15,000-square-foot aquarium, previously known as the South Pacific Aquarium, is an oasis of warm-water marine beauty, with vibrant, tropical fish and new shark additions in a refreshed space. The $7.09 million aquarium renovation is funded by the zoo’s operating budget and bonds approved by Tacoma voters in 2014. The aquarium first opened…