One of the perks of living in Coronado is its proximity to the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park. It is just a ten minute drive to these wonderful attractions.

Joining the San Diego Zoo was one of the first things we did when we moved to California. I love going to the zoo visiting with the animals. Yes, I am one of those people that “talk” with the animals. I’ve had some great interactions with some of them. The birds have been especially receptive to my gestures – I don’t know if it’s them or that I speak pretty good bird!

This past Wednesday dawned sunny and warm. “Zoo or work out?” I asked Bob. We agreed on taking some time off from our respective businesses and going to the zoo.

A Wednesday during the school season is a perfect time to go to the zoo. Parking was easy – got a spot in the first two rows when one of the other members left. Insider tip: many members go to the zoo early, spend just a couple of hours and then leave. So, they get the close spots early on and you can snag them as they leave.

The crowds were light so we could get close to the exhibits and walk easily down the sidewalks and paths. Everyone was in a good mood and the animals were relaxed and active.

Each visit to the zoo is a unique experience and this time was no exception. I love being a member so we can go for just an hour or an entire morning or afternoon. We rarely tour the entire zoo in one visit. Instead we choose which areas we want to see each time we go.

Since they are upfront and center, we always say hello to the flamingos. Also, I usually get an Americano at the coffee cart right there – delicious! After watching the flamingos for a bit, we walked along to the Koala exhibit and were so excited to see a momma Koala and her Joey sitting in the tree in the outside enclosure.

Then it was off to Elephant Mesa to see the giraffes in their new area. That circle included the Meercats, elephants and rhinos.

Next we walked towards Cat Canyon and unexpectedly passed upon a Camel Encounter where they let you feed the camels and pet them. Bob didn’t want his picture taken with the camel…don’t know why.

A stroll down Cat Canyon is always a treat and this time there was a new addition – two New Guinea Singing Dogs. I’m not quite sure what the big cats thought of that, but the male’s song floated throughout the canyon and beyond.

It was time to go and so we headed up the path through Sun Bear Canyon. We stopped briefly at the Zoo Store and admired the handiwork from crafts people all over the world. We headed out with a promise to each other to go to the zoo again soon.

Here is a video I made of the photos I took on this visit – click here to see our visit to the San Diego Zoo.