Thursday, September 28, 2017

Exploring the NC Zoo

On Sunday we decided to finally go explore the NC Zoo. We had been talking about going for weeks but the weather wasn't the best and Andy's been working a lot. On Sunday it was going to be a beautiful day so we set off early!

We have been to the zoo several times in the past as a family when Hensley was really small and also on school field trips. However, they are always updating and adding cool new stuff. 

It was a little chilly that morning in the lower 60's and the high was only set for 74 degrees! 
Perfection!

The NC Zoo is large, massive even. It covers over 500 acres and to walk the entire length of the trails it is over 5 miles!! That's a full day of adventure. The zoo has two sections, North America and Africa. We always seem to start in North America and by the time we get to Africa we are tired and rush through it or miss parts. This time we changed it up and entered through the Africa entrance. 


One of the cooler parts of the zoo is the bird section. There are tons of beautiful flowers and plants and dozen of birds. 


 Another super cool part of the zoo was the KidZone. In the summer there is a wading area that the kids can literally lay in and cool off and play. There is a huge climbing area through the trees and tons of things to climb and explore. There were mazes and things hidden among the trees to make music and explore. 

One of our favorite things to see each time we go are the primates. They have baboons, chimps, gorillas, and other types of monkeys. 







I think Hensley could have watched the seals all day! 








The seals were happy to have an audience to show for!







The giraffes are always one of my favorites. We had hoped to feed them, like we did in a previous visit but it was closed when we got to that area this time. It's always so magical to see just how large they are and at the same time just how peaceful they seem.  










There is A LOT of walking to be done at the NC Zoo. Hensley made it a little more challenging. 





The lions weren't too impressed with everyone that was there to see them that day!


When visiting the zoo, riding the tram is a MUST! The zoo has over 500 acres and over 6 miles of walking trails. It's nice to hop on the tram and head to a specific location. 



This super big turtle came out to see everyone. They can live over 100 years!!




The elephants!!!!!!!






When Hensley climbed up on this rock I freaked out!!! This snake looked so REAL!


 As our day was winding down we came across this squirrel who was very friendly!




It was a wonderful family day!