Zoo Miami (also known as The Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens) is the largest zoo in Florida and the fifth largest in t ... he United States. As the only sub-tropical zoo in the continental U.S., the unique climate in South Florida allows us to care for a wide variety of animals from Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Americas representing a broad mix of species that is unlike any other zoo in the country. Our animals are grouped according to their geographic territories, with species that live together peacefully in the wild placed in exhibits together here at the zoo. Our trees, foliage, and even our soil are matched as closely as possible to the native habitats of our animals. The history of the zoo can be traced back to 1948, with what was then known as the Crandon Park Zoo on the island of Key Biscayne, just off the coast of downtown Miami. At that time, the zoo occupied 48 acres of the park and its first animals included some lions, an elephant and a rhinoceros that had been stranded when a circus went out of business in Miami. Zoo Miami today occupies almost 750 acres, 4 miles of walkways, and is home to more than 3,000 animals representing over 500 different species. Of this population, more than 130 species are at risk in the wild; many classified as endangered or critically endangered. The zoo also houses more than 1,000 species of trees, palms and other plants, and over 100 special exhibits showcasing a broad number of species and scientific topics. We are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) which means we have passed a rigorous application and inspection process and meet or exceed the AZA's standards for animal health and welfare, fundraising, zoo staffing, and involvement in global conservation efforts. Zoo Miami is proud to be an active leader in many global wildlife and environmental conservation initiatives, and we are currently involved in about 30 programs annually across five continents. read more