East Bay Zoological Society (Oakland Zoo)

The Oakland Zoo is home to 450 exotic animals, has 20,000 member households and hosts 600,000 visitors annually, including 200,000 children.  Focus is on life science education programs and conservation.

Why do we exist?

Nestled in the rolling hills of 525-acre Knowland Park, the Oakland Zoo is a 45-acre site that is home to more than 650 native and exotic animals and a unique collection of trees, palms, and exotic plants from around the world.  The Oakland Zoo was founded in 1922 by naturalist Henry A. Snow.  In 1936, Henry’s son Sidney established the non-profit organization East Bay Zoological Society.  The East Bay Zoological Society has been operating and managing the Zoo for the City of Oakland since 1982.

Under the management of the East Bay Zoological Society, the Oakland Zoo has made award-winning strides in improving the zoo experience for visitors and has gained international acclaim and national awards for its animal management and endangered species programs. The Oakland Zoo is accredited by the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums, and is ranked in the top 15% of the more than 700 Zoos nationwide and is one of only two zoos in California with elephants.

What have you accomplished?

Ranked ninth among the San Francisco Bay Area’s largest attractions in 2006 by the San Francisco Business Times and the sixth largest cultural attraction in 2008, the Oakland Zoo hosts over 600,000 visitors annually and has 20,000 member households.  Ninety percent of visitors are families and school groups from Alameda, Contra Costa, San Mateo, and Santa Clara counties.  The Wayne and Gladys Valley Children’s Zoo, the latest major exhibit area to be developed at the Zoo, has increased the Zoo’s attendance 30% since its opening in July 2005.  Spacious habitats, dynamic collections and interactive children's play areas make the Children’s Zoo a popular family destination.

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