Santa Barbara Zoo opens new Ranger Station attraction

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The Santa Barbara Zoo has a brand new experiential space officially open to the public, the Ranger Station.

The new space is located across from the Verandah overlooking the Australian Walkabout.

The new exhibit features Rangers in their natural habitat encouraging a deeper connection to nature and helping visitors immerse themselves in the outdoors.

Part of the new space includes the option for visitors to explore mini trails, spot local animal and plant life as well as engage in interactive experiences all included with the price of regular admission to the Zoo.

"The Zoo’s new Ranger Station represents our commitment to environmental education and fostering a love for nature," shared JJ McLeod, Director of Education at the Santa Barbara Zoo. "We believe that by providing these immersive experiences, we can inspire a new generation of conservationists and create lasting connections between people and wildlife."

Guests who make a visit to the Ranger Station can learn about National Parks, camping etiquette, and the importance of leaving no trace to preserve our natural spaces for future generations.

“This little cutie is educating people on how to respect our wildlife, stay on the trail, and to not take home little tortoises no matter how cute they are,” demonstrates Education Supervisor and Zoo-based Ranger, Whitney Roemer.

Fossil displays are an additional interactive tool used to engage visitors to the Ranger Station.

“This is an inchworm," explains one of the Zoo's Rangers to curious onlookers. "It's called an inchworm because it's about an inch long and they move inch by inch. So they kind of arch up every time they have to move.” 

For more information about all of the Zoo's attractions visit their attractions webpage.