Tropical Asia

Exhibits at Dickerson Park Zoo are primarily grouped by geographic themes, and the final representation in the zoo's Master Plan was “Tropical Asia,” which opened in phases during 2004 and 2006.

Asian Elephants are, by far, the most popular animals at Dickerson Park Zoo. The new, spacious exhibit is the centerpiece of Tropical Asia and home to the zoo's herd of four Asian elephant cows and one calf, Nisha, born July 18, 2006. The outdoor space includes a 40,000-gallon pool and abundant viewing for these charismatic and intelligent creatures.

In the distance, beyond the exhibit yard, guests might catch a glimpse of two bull elephants, Sabu and Mr. Ed, who reside at the zoo's off-exhibit breeding center.

Malayan Tigers thrill zoo guests with their sleek, muscular bodies and stealth. Tigers were one of the most often requested animals by zoo guests, and their return in 2004 was greatly anticipated.

White-cheeked Gibbons swing arm-over-arm through limbs and ropes that simulate their native forested habitat of Southeast Asia. You might hear them whooping in the morning; these boisterous vocalizations, which can be heard up to a mile away, keep family groups together and mark territory in the wild. The gibbons remain on exhibit throughout the year because this new exhibit includes indoor viewing for winter months along with the outdoor yard.