Zoos are incredible places to connect with wildlife, but it’s easy to forget they’re also home to animals that demand respect and caution. To keep yourself, the animals, and other visitors safe, here are 15 things you should absolutely avoid doing at a zoo.
1. Don’t Feed the Animals—Ever
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It might be tempting to toss your leftover sandwich to that cute monkey, but zoo animals are on carefully monitored diets. Giving them “human food” can make them sick or even kill them. Besides, feeding animals encourages them to beg or approach people, creating a dangerous situation for everyone. Trust the zookeepers to keep their meals balanced, even if they do look like they’re asking for a bite. And look for areas in the Zoo where you can buy food for Giraffes and other animals and feed them. Kids of all ages love that experience and it’s a safe way to encounter them.
2. Don’t Bang on the Glass
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Tapping or banging on an enclosure’s glass isn’t just annoying—it’s stressful for the animals. Imagine someone pounding on your window all day while you’re trying to relax. Many animals associate loud noises with threats, which can cause anxiety or aggression. Respect their space and let them live in peace.
3. Don’t Yell at the Animals
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Yelling at animals to get their attention might seem harmless, but it can be overwhelming or even frightening for them. Animals rely on sound cues for communication, and your shouting could disrupt their natural behavior. If they’re not paying attention to you, it’s because they’ve got other things to do—like being animals.
4. Don’t Climb Over Barriers
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Barriers are there for a reason—to keep you safe and to give the animals the space they need. Climbing over them puts both you and the animals at risk. You might think you’re just getting closer for a better view, but one wrong move could mean serious injuries or worse.
5. Don’t Ignore Safety Signs
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Those “Do Not Touch” or “Keep Off” signs aren’t optional. Zoos put them in place to protect both visitors and animals. Ignoring these rules can lead to dangerous situations, from getting bitten to stressing the animals. If you see a sign, take it seriously—it’s there for a reason.
6. Don’t Distract the Zookeepers
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Zookeepers have a vital job to do, and it’s not just feeding the animals or cleaning enclosures—they’re also responsible for monitoring the animals’ health and behavior. Asking them too many questions, blocking their path, or distracting them while they work can take their focus away from ensuring the safety of the animals and visitors. Most zookeepers are happy to chat during designated talks or presentations, so save your questions for those moments. Let them focus when they’re in action—it could be the difference between spotting an issue or missing it!
7. Don’t Throw Things into Enclosures
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Throwing anything into an animal’s enclosure, whether it’s food, a toy, or even trash, can be harmful. Animals might eat or play with something that’s dangerous to them. Plus, it’s just plain rude—would you like strangers throwing random stuff into your home?
8. Don’t Tease or Mock the Animals
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Making faces or mocking animals might seem funny, but it’s not entertaining for them. Some animals can feel threatened or frustrated by such behavior, leading to stress or aggression. Let’s keep the jokes between humans and leave the animals alone.
9. Don’t Turn Your Back on Big Cats
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If you’re near the big cat enclosures, keep an eye on them. Predators like lions and tigers are hardwired to stalk prey that isn’t looking. Turning your back can trigger this instinct, even through glass or barriers. It’s a reminder that these majestic creatures are still wild at heart.
10. Don’t Reach Through the Bars
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No matter how friendly an animal looks, never stick your hand through the bars. Zoo animals can bite, scratch, or even grab you, leading to serious injuries. Even if you think it’s harmless, it’s not worth the risk—for you or the animal.
11. Don’t Bring Balloons or Plastic Bags
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Balloons and plastic bags might seem harmless, but they can become deadly if animals get their hands on them. If an animal ingests these items, it can lead to choking, blockages, or even death. Many zoos explicitly ban them—so leave them at home.
12. Don’t Tap on Snakes’ Tanks
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Snakes and reptiles are especially sensitive to vibrations. Tapping on their tanks doesn’t just annoy them—it can cause extreme stress, leading to behavioral issues or health problems. Admire these creatures quietly and from a respectful distance.
13. Don’t Bring Loud Noisemakers
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Things like air horns, whistles, or even super-loud toys are disruptive in a zoo setting. They can spook animals, disrupt their natural rhythms, and even scare other visitors. Zoos are places to observe and learn—not to create chaos.
14. Don’t Assume the Animals are Tame
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Just because an animal is in a zoo doesn’t mean it’s domesticated. Many zoo animals remain wild at heart and have instincts that can be dangerous if provoked. Treat every animal with the same respect you would if you encountered it in the wild.
15. Don’t Forget to Supervise Your Kids
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Kids are naturally curious, but they can also be unpredictable. Letting them climb fences, feed animals, or shout at enclosures can lead to dangerous situations. Keep an eye on them and teach them how to respect the animals—it’s a lesson that will stick with them for life.
