With the shutdown finally over, people flocked to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo. Many, including myself, were particularly excited to see all of the animals roaming around, and a part of me thinks the feeling was reciprocal. Two things stand out to non-Washingtonians about the zoo: one is that it’s extremely accessible, the other is it’s free. Accessible from either the Cleveland Park or Woodley Park metro stop, the National Zoo reminds you that no matter your age, there is something here for everyone.
As you walk in, immediately the noise is reduced and you feel tucked away into a hidden safari, not in the middle of Washington, DC. The newest addition to the 2000+ animals is the anonymous panda cub birthed on August 23rd, 2013. Typically the cub is named at 100 days old, but that doesn’t keep Washingtonians, as well as the country, from being captivated by the newborn. How interested? So much that you can watch them 24/7 on two Panda Cams.
Bonnie, a 37-year-old female orangutan, has been with the park since 1980, and proved extremely intelligent as she tapped on the window to interact with the crowd, especially an adorable little boy who was quite taken with her presence. The Orangutan Transport System, known as the O Line, has eight 50-foot towers with cables that extend from the Great Ape House to the Think Tank where cognitive skills are researched. On any given day, Bonnie or any of the other five orangutans might be swinging right over you.
There is so much to do at the zoo, regardless of if you choose to visit an exhibit, eat at one of the numerous food stands, or talk to the approachable and well-informed zoo keepers. Remember to come early, as the park hours change seasonally.
