There’s Always Something New at the Central Florida Zoo

The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is giving guests even more reasons to visit with a brand-new animal encounter and the arrival of two adorable cougar cubs.

Animal lovers can now enjoy the Central Florida Zoo’s Tortoise Encounters, which offer a rare opportunity to get up close with Angel, the Zoo’s beloved Aldabra tortoise.

Held on Saturdays and Sundays at 11:00 a.m., the interactive encounters allow guests to step inside this land-dwelling reptile’s habitat, learn fascinating facts from the Zoo’s expert Animal Care team, and capture unique photos alongside this gentle giant. 

The experience is limited to 10 participants per session, creating a more personal connection with one of the Zoo’s most popular residents. Tortoise Encounters are available for $20 for annual passholders and $25 for non-passholders, with advance online reservations recommended.

The Zoo also recently welcomed two cougar cub siblings as permanent residents. The male and female cubs arrived from South Dakota after they were found without their mother when they were only a few weeks old. Because they were too young to survive on their own in the wild, the cubs found a safe home at the Central Florida Zoo. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the cute pair later this year, as soon as they are ready to make their public debut. 

Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable hands-on animal encounter or eagerly awaiting the chance to see the newest arrivals, there’s never been a better time to visit and discover the exciting happenings at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens.

To learn more, visit CentralFloridaZoo.org.