Hidden Gems
Regenstein Birds of Prey Exhibit
Tucked away in the back corner of the Regenstein Birds of Prey Exhibit is one of the zoo’s most impressive species: the bald eagle. Often overlooked due to its location, the power and grace of this winged predator reward visitors who seek it out. The zoo’s eagle is housed here because of injuries its suffered in the wild that prevent its re-release. Caring for a national symbol calls for a little extra effort on the part of the keepers—due to the eagle’s status as a national symbol, shed feathers have to be sent to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to be made available to Native American tribes for use in tribal ceremonies and clothing.

McCormick Bear Habitat
As few visitors are able to resist the lure of Regenstein African Journey (for good reason), the Bear Habitat north of the building’s entrance and exit can provide a quiet spot even on the zoo’s busiest days. Sun bears and spectacled bears can be seen climbing trees in search of treats hidden in their plastic “beehive,” while the brother and sister polar bears often beat the heat by diving deep into their pool. The sight of the massive bears at their underwater-viewing window is a favorite of guests and zoo staff alike, especially when they approach the window to push off for another lap.

Kovler Penguin/Seabird House
Neither the crowds nor the heat will follow you to the icy reaches of the North and South Poles. The cool confines of the Penguin/Seabird House are home to some of the most cold-loving creatures on earth. Chinstrap, rockhopper and king penguins dive and play in their underwater-viewing pool, while razorbills, tufted puffins and common murres chatter noisily in the adjacent habitat. Despite living in different hemispheres, the two groups of birds have evolved similar traits: the penguins swim with their flippers, while the other birds make use of specialized wings to “fly” through the water.

Coin collectibles
Collectors who like a little scavenger hunt with their souvenirs will enjoy scouring the zoo for the four keepsake coin machines located throughout. Some clues for the sleuths among us—you can gather a complete set by visiting Regenstein Small-Mammal Reptile House, the Helen Brach Primate House, the Kovler Lion House, and the LPZOO Children’s Train. Each machine features four different designs, including gorillas, chimpanzees, leopards, lions, tigers and bats.