Shelby the fossa

People of all ages can enjoy the zoo exhibits

—Walk through the gates of the Charles Paddock Zoo and enter a world full of excitement and education. Animals from different corners of the world can be found throughout the zoo, providing a fun day for all. Over 200 species at the zoo guarantee hours of exploration.

“The Charles Paddock Zoo is the only zoo on the Central Coast and is home to hundreds of species from all over the world. We have numerous animals that are part of globally managed programs to preserve animals and their habitats. If you want to engage with some of the rarest animals in the world in a safe and respectful environment then visit us often,” notes the website.

Since 1955, the Charles Paddock Zoo has been home to numerous animals who help educate the community about conservation efforts. The zoo is accredited by the America Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA), which means that the highest level of care, safety, and education is in place.

Make sure to stop by and learn about the newest animals at the Charles Paddock Zoo, such as the fossa, from Madagascar with only 2,500 left in their habitat. All visitors can enjoy admiring the baby animals, such as the newborn mongoose lemur born in April, and can be found sticking close to its mother.

Other exciting animals to learn about include the Malayan tiger, red panda, flamingo, spider monkey, great horned owl, and many more. Animals from five hotspots of biodiversity, such as Indo Burma, Madagascar, Tropical Andes, California, and West Africa, are found at the zoo.

A new addition to the zoo is a mural celebrating the role of beavers in the environment; John Khus, an acclaimed Chumash artist, completed the mural. Beavers are found throughout the Central Coast in areas such as the Salinas River and Monterey Bay.

Keep an eye out for some enjoyable events throughout the year that are perfect for a day out with family or friends. Just a handful of events include an arts and crafts day, celebrations of holidays, and ice cream vendors.

The zoo is committed to wild animal propagation and management and is involved in several conservation and education programs. The Charles Paddock Zoo is one of the best, not-to-be-missed, community-supported, and family-oriented recreation destinations on the Central Coast.

The Charles Paddock Zoo is located at 9100 Morro Road in Atascadero. Open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit charlespaddockzoo.org, or call (805) 461-5080.

— Sadie Mae Mace