Dakota Zoo

06/24/2025

Meet the Stunning Wood Duck!

If you've ever seen a duck that looks like it was painted by an artist, chances are you’ve spotted a wood duck! With their dazzling green crests, red eyes, and intricate feather patterns, they’re one of the most colorful waterfowl in North America.

What makes them even more special here at Dakota Zoo? The wood ducks in our pond are wild! They’ve chosen our peaceful wetland space as a seasonal stop — and we’re thrilled to offer them a safe, welcoming habitat.

Wood ducks love wooded swamps, marshes, and streams — and yes, they actually nest in trees! Some ducklings even make their first leap from the nest before they can fly, bouncing safely to the forest floor below.

Next time you visit, keep your eyes open by the pond — you just might a few of these wild beauties!
📸Rich Barrios

06/23/2025

"Pssst... psst psst psst...Did you hear? We're the biggest bunnies in town!"

Meet our Giant Continental Rabbits, Belle & Sherwood! Giant Continental rabbits are one of the largest rabbit breeds in the world! With their huge ears, sweet personalities, and gentle nature, they’re as lovable as they are large.

Stop in and see Belle & Sherwood - located in Gramma & Grampa's Petting Farm with their friends the chickens!

06/22/2025

Don't sleep the weekend away!! Join all our furry, feathery, and scaly friends for a day of fun! Open 10:00am-6:00pm daily, Wednesdays until 7:00pm!
📸Rich Barrios

06/21/2025

Animal Ambassadors are in the Discovery Centrr until 11:30! We’ll be back at 3:30-4:30!!

06/21/2025

Happy ! Love the zoo? Post a copy of your favorite zoo selfie below!👇

06/21/2025

Hot and ready, come and get it! Breakfast from 8-10am. It’s a beautiful morning at the zoo! ☀️

06/20/2025

Happy 🦅!

📸Rich Barrios

06/19/2025

06/19/2025

It’s ! that pollinators like bees, butterflies, and bats, provide 1 out of 3 bites of food we eat? Say thanks by planting native plants, supporting local farmers, and educating others about the importance of pollinators!

Stop by daily 10:00am-6:00pm to see our new Honey bee colony in action!

06/18/2025

We love our Vet Team! It’s veterinarian appreciation day and we want to recognize Dr. Jacob and Dr. Tanya for all they do for the animals and staff. 💚 They are always available for any need and are constantly checking in to make sure all of the animals are happy and healthy! Give them a warm thank you below! 👇

06/18/2025

Mark your calendars!

This Friday-Saturday is the zoo's first Family Zoo Snooze!

Join us for Breakfast at the Zoo Saturday morning from 8:00-10:00am!

06/17/2025

It’s National Croc Day! But let’s give our alligators some love, too.

While today is all about crocodiles, our American alligators wanted to remind you they’re just as toothy, tough, and totally awesome!

Crocs or gators? Here’s how to tell:
*Snout shape: Crocs = V-shaped, Gators = U-shaped
*Habitat: Crocs like saltwater, gators prefer freshwater
*Teeth visibility: When a croc smiles, you see all the teeth!

So while we may not have crocodiles, our gators are ready to strike a pose and educate guests on what makes them special.

Come say hi to Goliath & Cookie today and learn how crocs and gators are different—but equally cool! We're open daily from 10:00am-6:00pm, Wednesdays until 7:00pm! (Weather permitting, of course!)

📸Rich Barrios