San Antonio, Texas, January 3, 2026
The San Antonio Zoo has opened its new gorilla habitat, Congo Falls, for the first time in over three decades. This 2-acre exhibit provides a naturalistic environment for the gorillas, enhancing their welfare and visitor engagement. The zoo continues to modernize its facilities with recent developments like the Naylor Savanna. This initiative not only benefits the animals but also positively impacts the local economy and fosters community engagement through increased visitor attendance and related business opportunities.
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio Zoo Unveils New Gorilla Habitat
The San Antonio Zoo has officially opened its new gorilla habitat, Congo Falls, on December 13, 2025. This 2-acre exhibit marks the first time since 1990 that the zoo has housed gorillas, following the relocation of its last gorilla to the National Zoo. The Congo Falls habitat is designed to provide a more naturalistic environment for the gorillas, featuring dense vegetation, water features, and climbing structures to encourage natural behaviors. The exhibit is part of the zoo’s ongoing efforts to enhance animal welfare and visitor experience.
Background
The San Antonio Zoo, established in 1914, spans 57 acres in Brackenridge Park and is home to over 750 species, some of which are endangered or extinct in the wild. The zoo has a history of significant developments, including the opening of the Richard Friedrich Aquarium in 1948 and the San Antonio Zoo Train in 1956. The Congo Falls habitat is the latest addition to the zoo’s efforts to modernize and expand its exhibits, following the opening of the Naylor Savanna in October 2024, which increased space for African species and included a new giraffe barn. The Naylor Savanna is the largest habitat in the zoo’s history and features the Spekboom Lodge, allowing guests to spend the night in the zoo. These developments reflect the zoo’s commitment to conservation, education, and providing engaging experiences for visitors.
Related Developments
In October 2024, the San Antonio Zoo opened the Naylor Savanna, a 10-acre African habitat that significantly increased exhibit space for African species, including giraffes, rhinos, and zebras. The Naylor Savanna also introduced the Spekboom Lodge, a unique overnight experience for guests. These initiatives are part of the zoo’s broader strategy to enhance its facilities and support conservation efforts. The Congo Falls habitat further demonstrates the zoo’s dedication to providing naturalistic environments for its animals and enriching experiences for visitors.
Key Features of the New Gorilla Habitat
The Congo Falls habitat is a significant milestone for the San Antonio Zoo. By returning gorillas to its lineup, the zoo is making strides in animal welfare, education, and visitor engagement. The immersive environment not only caters to the inherent needs of the gorillas but also creates exciting opportunities for visitors to learn about these magnificent creatures in a setting that mirrors their natural habitat.
Community and Economic Impact
The opening of Congo Falls, along with previous developments like the Naylor Savanna, contributes positively to the local economy by attracting more visitors to the zoo and the surrounding area of Brackenridge Park. Enhancements to the zoo also foster a sense of community, as different local businesses can benefit from increased foot traffic and engagement opportunities with the zoo’s guests.
Advancements in Animal Welfare
With growing awareness about wildlife conservation and animal welfare, zoos across the nation are shifting towards creating more enriching environments. The San Antonio Zoo’s Congo Falls is a prime example of this trend, allowing gorillas to exhibit natural behaviors that enhance their quality of life. This investment in animal welfare reflects broader trends in conservation efforts and community education.
Looking to the Future
As the San Antonio Zoo continues to innovate and expand, it aligns itself with the long-term goals of elevating the visitor experience, contributing to conservation efforts, and promoting economic vitality in San Antonio. The introduction of Congo Falls and other projects places the zoo at the forefront of animal care and environmental stewardship.
Conclusion
The San Antonio Zoo’s new gorilla habitat symbolizes a commitment to both animal welfare and community engagement. By investing in naturalistic environments, the zoo provides a learning opportunity for visitors while fostering economic growth in the locality. As San Antonio continues to expand its offerings, supporting local attractions can help stimulate the economy, creating a vibrant business landscape that benefits everyone.
FAQ
When did the San Antonio Zoo open its new gorilla habitat?
The San Antonio Zoo opened its new gorilla habitat, Congo Falls, on December 13, 2025.
What is the size of the Congo Falls habitat?
The Congo Falls habitat spans 2 acres.
When was the last time the San Antonio Zoo housed gorillas before Congo Falls?
The San Antonio Zoo last housed gorillas in 1990, before relocating its last gorilla to the National Zoo.
What other recent developments have occurred at the San Antonio Zoo?
In October 2024, the San Antonio Zoo opened the Naylor Savanna, a 10-acre African habitat that increased exhibit space for African species and included a new giraffe barn. The Naylor Savanna also introduced the Spekboom Lodge, allowing guests to spend the night in the zoo.
What is the San Antonio Zoo’s mission?
The San Antonio Zoo’s mission is to inspire and empower people to join in the conservation of the natural world, providing engaging experiences that connect visitors with wildlife and nature.
Key Features of the San Antonio Zoo’s Recent Developments
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Congo Falls Habitat | A 2-acre gorilla habitat opened on December 13, 2025, marking the return of gorillas to the zoo since 1990. |
| Naylor Savanna | A 10-acre African habitat opened in October 2024, increasing space for African species and including a new giraffe barn. |
| Spekboom Lodge | Introduced in November 2024, this lodge allows guests to spend the night in the zoo, enhancing visitor experience. |
| Richard Friedrich Aquarium | Opened in 1948, it was the city’s only aquarium until SeaWorld San Antonio opened in 1988. |
| San Antonio Zoo Train | Opened in 1956, it offers visitors a guided tour of the zoo’s exhibits. |
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