Open 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Mon – Fri
9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sat – Sun
New at the Zoo
Plan Your Day
We Care for Animals
Watch Our Zoo
World class care
Conservation in action
Ume makes a splash
A smashing good time
Connect With Us
Pip, pip, hooray! 🎉 Three fluffy Magellanic penguin chicks have hatched and are healthy, growing, and thriving!
The chicks, who hatched in mid-May, recently received another routine health check and continue to do well. While they’re still spending most of their time tucked safely in their nests, the baby waddlers are growing fast and getting stronger every day. 🐧
The cutest morning routine from the adorable otter family. 💤
Slow stretches, cozy snuggles, and a few sleepy yawns before a day filled with splashes, snacks, and plenty of mischief. 💙
📹: Animal care staff Chrissy
Rio sneaks off with a beak full of wood wool, helping himself to more nesting material from his fellow penguin pals! 🐧
The baby owl has started taking small adventures around zoo grounds as it continues to grow and build confidence. These curious outings are an important part of development, helping the young owlet practice new skills and become more comfortable for future close encounters.
Be among the first to meet this adorable young chick this Thursday, June 4, at 2 p.m. at the Wild Wonders Outdoor Theater!
Happy Pride Month! 🌈 Join us in celebrating inclusion, compassion, and empathy at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. Our Pride Celebration returns June 20–21, bringing our community together to honor love, diversity, and belonging while connecting with wildlife, nature, and one another. We look forward to celebrating with you! 🐾💙
Lunch is served! These two penguin chicks are enjoying a meal from their parents, who regurgitate food to feed their growing young. Every snack helps these fluffy chicks grow a little bigger and stronger. 💙🐧
📹: Animal Curator Jen
🌊 Celebrate World Reef Day with us! 🐠
Dive into the vibrant underwater world of our Coral Reef Up-Close habitat inside the Tropical Reef Aquarium. Discover dazzling corals, colorful fish, and learn why coral reefs are some of the most important ecosystems on Earth. These incredible habitats support marine life, protect coastlines, and help keep our oceans healthy. 🪸
Throwback to baby Pepper for World Sea Lion Day! From tiny pup to soon-to-be big sister, Pepper has come a long way. We’re counting down the days until she welcomes a new sister or brother this summer, and we can’t wait to see her take on her newest role! 💗