Page 116 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - New Orleans

114  NE W ORLEANS AREA B Y AREA

p Audubon Zoo

This appealing 58-acre zoo, landscaped with fountains
and water gardens, can be toured easily in a few hours.
It opened in 1938 but was completely redesigned in
the 1980s; today, most of the animals are living in open
paddocks that replicate their natural habitats. Only a
few of the 1930s buildings remain. The swamp exhibit is
one of the most engaging, showcasing Louisiana white
alligators, as well as Acadian culture and music. The
world-class zoo is part of Audubon Park (see p113), one . Louisiana Swamp
of the loveliest urban parks in the country. Originally, Alligators bask along the
the 340-acre park was the sugar plantation of Jean banks or float like logs in the
Etienne Boré, who developed the commercially muddy lagoon.
successful sugar granulation process. It was also the
location of the 1884 World Exposition.

The African Savannah
Rhinos, zebras, African wild
dogs, and white pelicans
all live together with a host of
opportunistic visitors such as ibis,
heron, and egrets.

Reptile Encounter
Sea Lions King cobras, rattlesnakes, many
The sea lion pool is one of the oldest features of the zoo. amphibians, and the impressive
Feeding time draws the crowds. Komodo dragon hold court here.

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