The Great Chicago Animal Count: Zoos, Don't Lose Us Now!
Ah, Chicago. City of wind, deep dish pizza, and... an abundance of adorable (and sometimes not-so-adorable) creatures? You might be surprised to learn that Chicagoland is practically crawling with critters, at least when it comes to the world of zoos and animal sanctuaries. But before you pack your khaki cargo pants and head out on a safari-esque adventure, buckle up, because counting Chicago's animal havens isn't as easy as counting pigeons on Michigan Avenue (although, that can be a feat in itself).
The Big Two: Where Lions and Leopards Reign Supreme
Let's start with the heavy hitters. Chicago boasts two world-class zoos:
- Lincoln Park Zoo: Free to enter (hallelujah for those wallets!), this historic zoo is perfect for a casual stroll past gorillas, penguins, and even a creepy-crawly insectarium (if you're into that kind of thing). Fun fact: It's one of the oldest zoos in the entire country, so you might just brush shoulders with the ghost of a dinosaur (okay, maybe not, but it's a cool thought).
- Brookfield Zoo: If you're feeling fancy and want to splurge for an entry fee, Brookfield Zoo is your jam. This sprawling zoo boasts giant pandas, a Tropic World full of rainforest wonders, and even a zoo train that takes you on a wild (well, not that wild) ride.
But wait, there's more! Just because these two zoos take the spotlight, doesn't mean they have a monopoly on the animal kingdom in Chicago.
Beyond the Big Guys: A Hidden Jungle of Animal Encounters
- Feeling feathery? Check out the Bill Jarvis Migratory Bird Sanctuary and the North Pond Nature Sanctuary. Both offer a chance to commune with our fine feathered friends (and maybe dodge a rogue goose or two).
- Calling all primate enthusiasts! The Regenstein Center for African Apes and the Helen Brach Primate House offer close-up encounters with our closest (yet hairier) relatives. Don't be surprised if they start critiquing your outfit – apes can be surprisingly fashion-forward these days.
- Wait, is that a fish? Technically not a zoo, but the John G. Shedd Aquarium is a Chicago institution, showcasing aquatic wonders from around the globe. Just don't tap on the glass – Nemo and his pals might not appreciate the unsolicited attention.
So, how many zoos does Chicago REALLY have? That depends on how you define "zoo." If you're a stickler for traditional animal parks, then two is the magic number. But if you consider any place where you can ogle fascinating creatures, well, let's just say Chicago has a wilder side than you might think!
