ALBANY ZOO FIELD GUIDE
Cypress Swamps and Cheetahs: A Quiet Walk Through Chehaw’s Outdoor Zoo
A concise field guide to visiting The Zoo at Chehaw in Albany—hours, species counts, and where to find weekend keeper talks and feedings.
Cypress Swamps and Cheetahs: A Quiet Walk Through Chehaw’s Outdoor Zoo.
The Zoo at Chehaw unfolds across boardwalks and cypress swamp, an outdoor collection of 209 specimens representing more than 72 species, from cheetahs and black rhinos to prairie dogs, black bears and alligators; the property pairs naturalistic exhibits with active conservation, education and veterinary programs.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
209 Specimens, 72+ Species
The zoo’s living collection totals 209 specimens and spans over 72 different species, giving visitors a compact but varied survey of mammals, reptiles and more.
Scenic Boardwalks and Cypress Swamp
Exhibits are presented outdoors along scenic boardwalks that weave through a cypress swamp, situating animals in a landscape-minded setting.
Weekend Feedings and Keeper Talks
Visitors can participate in animal feedings and attend keeper talks every weekend as part of the zoo’s public programming.
What the day feels like
What the Visit Feels Like
A visit at Chehaw is a measured outdoor stroll: you move along boardwalks through swampy stands and curated yards, passing species-rich exhibits that reflect the zoo’s commitment to animal care and conservation while stopping for scheduled keeper talks and feedings on weekends.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this visit suits—and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Park hours are 8:00 am–6:00 pm; zoo exhibit hours are 9:30 am–4:30 pm.
Exhibits are outdoors along boardwalks and through cypress swamp; plan your visit accordingly and check the zoo’s schedule for weekend keeper talks and feedings.
The Zoo and Park admission is operated by Chehaw Park and the facility maintains ongoing review of animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education and safety standards.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What are the park and zoo hours?
Park hours: 8:00 am–6:00 pm. Zoo exhibit hours: 9:30 am–4:30 pm.
How many animals and species are at the zoo?
The Zoo at Chehaw is home to 209 specimens representing over 72 different species.
Which notable animals can I expect to see?
Natural outdoor exhibits feature cheetahs, black rhinos, prairie dogs, black bears, alligators and many more species.
Are there keeper talks or feedings?
Yes—animal feedings and keeper talks are offered every weekend.
Is the zoo held to professional care and safety standards?
The zoo undergoes regular and thorough investigation to ensure it meets evolving standards covering animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education and safety.
Is the zoo appropriate for all ages?
The experience is suitable for all ages.