Baby Gorilla at the Zoo!

There is a new member of the family in the ape house at the DC National Zoo! You can read more about the baby gorilla here.

I find that the winter is a great time to visit the zoo. Nearly all the animals are inside and much easier to view (especially for little ones who cannot pick them out of their natural surroundings). It is also significantly less crowded which makes it easier to navigate. The zoo keepers are also frequently on hand to answer questions. It is a great way to get out of the house in the winter.

Some winter zoo tips:

1. Look at the map before you go and determine exactly where you want to go. Pick a few things that are close together to visit. If you are driving, make sure you figure out which parking lot is closest to your exhibits as well.
2. Bring the stroller. Even if your child doesn't particularly like to ride. You might find that in cold weather your child might actually like to ride to minimize the time outside (or get to the next animal even faster!). Strollers are also very useful for storing all the outdoor gear when you are inside looking at the animals.
3. Dress warmly but in items that are easy to get on and off. You will want to remove coats and such when you are inside. The animal houses can be warm.

One of our favorite itineraries:

• Park in Lot B.
  
• Head into the Elephant House to see the elephant bath at 10:30am.
• Go down to the Ape House to visit with the gorillas.
• Start walking back to the lot and stop at the Small Mammal House to see the meerkats, prairie dogs, and shrews.
• Home by lunch :)