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Wildlife world zoo, aquarium and safari park is proud to be a member of, zoological association of america  (zaa) , and the alliance of marine parks & aquariums (ammpa).

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6,000 Animals , Daily Sea Lion and Wildlife Encounter Shows, Tons of Rides, a Thousand Thrills, and a Million Smiles.

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Zoo Hours:  9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Aquarium hours:  9 a.m. to 7 p.m. , open 365  days a year.

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Welcome to wildlife world zoo, where visitors will experience a safari-like adventure like no other. our park boasts arizona’s largest collection of exotic and endangered animals, with over 600 separate species on display. in addition to our diverse collection of animals, we offer an array of exciting attractions, rides and daily shows that will leave you on the edge of your seat. come visit us today and experience a world of wildlife like never before.

Open 365  days a year!

June 1 - September 30

Zoo: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Aquarium: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

October 1 - May 30 

Zoo: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Aquarium: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm

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Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park

Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park has Arizona's largest collection of exotic and endangered animals, with more than 600 separate species, rides, a petting zoo and daily shows! We offer free animal shows, feeding stations and the opportunity to get up close and personal with some amazing animals.

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From the Wild West and wildlife to child-friendly museums and the Grand Canyon, Arizona has a lot to offer families.

• 16501 W Northern Ave.
• Litchfield Park, Arizona 85340
• Hours Zoo: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. (last zoo admission is 4:30 p.m.)Aquarium: 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
• (623) 935-9453
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Home » Blog » Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park

Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park

• General , Litchfield Park
• February 26, 2018

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure, try Wildlife World Zoo! Because it’s so much more than your typical zoo, with hundreds of exotic animals, an impressive aquarium, and awesome amusement park type rides. It’s located on the far west side of Phoenix, not really on the way to anywhere. (It took us about an hour to drive from Scottsdale.) But we think it’s completely worth the drive and price and you won’t be disappointed with your visit.

We very quickly noticed that there are no paved walkways here, just dirt paths. It may make your shoes more dusty than normal but we really enjoyed the “natural feel” when you wander and view the animals. Plus you don’t have the heat that concrete gives off! Strollers of all types will be completely fine on the paths.

Some of our favorite exhibits were the kangaroos, which were wandering free in a large enclosed area, and the entertaining monkeys as they swung around and chattered. The kids loved the peacocks in the trees! (Especially the one that landed on an employee truck and allowed a closer view of its gorgeous feathers.)

There are more than 600 species in the exhibits, and over 6,000 individual animals.

Speaking of exhibits, there are several that are indoors, giving a nice break from the sometimes intense Arizona sunshine. (They are also air-conditioned!) The reptile exhibits were very impressive and the kids loved the glass cases being on their level. We learned a lot about so many little creatures, some of which we didn’t know existed.

The other indoor exhibit was the aquarium. It’s not as extensive as Odysea or SeaLife  but had a great variety of fish and sea creatures. It actually brought a complete picture of the amazing variety of animals that exist on our planet!

There are a variety of shows and feedings to bring an extra special touch to your visit. The sea lion show, which runs twice a day, is so cute and free with admission! The kids’ petting zoo and lory parrot feedings are free as well. For an extra charge, you can feed the sea lions, giraffes, and stingrays.

The Safari Park is not to be missed, with over 30 different types of animals for you to see either by walking or the optional tram ride. This was one of our favorite sections, as the animals were so up close and personal.

When it’s time for a snack or lunch, there are six restaurants or cafes to choose from. Or, you are more than welcome to find a picnic table and enjoy your own food. We opted to have lunch by the Sky Rise and it was fun to watch. Don’t miss the playground too – it’s a nice break time for parents and kids will love climbing and sliding.

What’s unique about Wildlife World is that it’s also part amusement park! Little ones will love the train and carousel. There’s also a log ride, zip line, roller coaster, log ride, flying swings and more. All of these activities cost extra and range from $3.50-6.00/person, with the zip line being $15/person.

Admission to Wildlife World Zoo is $39.99/adults, $19.99/children 3-12 (kids 2 and under are free). Check their website for coupons. Groupon also offers $3-5 off per person.

Hours are 9am-6pm, with the aquarium open 9am-7pm. The last admission is at 4:30pm. The park is open 7 days a week, including all holidays!

Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium and Safari Park 16501 W Northern Ave Litchfield Park, AZ 85340 (623) 935-9453 wildlifeworld.com

Jana is a homeschooling mother of three children, and lives in Scottsdale with her husband, Chris. She enjoys traveling, reading and coffee. Follow @phoenixwithkids on Instagram for daily photos around Phoenix!

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Wildlife World Zoo

Aquarium & safari park.

Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium & Safari Park displays Arizona’s largest collection of exotic animals, White Tigers, Lions, Jaguars, Leopards, Giraffe, Monkeys, Kangaroos, Sharks, Penguins, Stingray, and over 6,000 other exotic species. Take the Log Flume ride through the Aquarium, have an African Safari Train ride, skyride over animal exhibits, Australian Boat ride and kid’s exotic Animal Carousel. Open every day of the year!

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Out Of Africa Wildlife Park

At out of africa, that last a lifetime, tickets and memberships.

We offer single-day tickets, year-long memberships and group tickets as well as several add-ons. Buy your tickets today!

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Plan your awe-inspiring adventure today! See park hours and location and check out all the fun things we have to offer.

Feeling adventurous? Check out one of our many tours.

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Feed a tiger, tiger splash, racing raptor, meet jericho the rhino.

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How can you get an African safari experience without stepping foot on a plane, train or boat?

Look no further than Arizona’s Out of Africa Wildlife Park . It feels like you’ve walked out of the Sonoran Desert and into a savanna. This park is unlike any other zoo or animal experience, and it has something for everyone within its gates.

Expect to find habitats for tigers, lions and bears, plus our personal favorite: spotted hyenas.

You’ll also find a dazzle of zebras, a Black Leopard named Enoch, a White Rhino names Jericho, and many more.

Out of Africa is a unique 103-acre preserve that allows animals to thrive and flourish in spacious exhibits, and none of the animals have to go through any training. The park even lets some of the animal shows run almost completely on improv.

The park offers a variety of unique ways to get up close and personal to their furry, scaly and slippery residents. One of our favorite options is the Unimog Adventure Safari Tour, a giant truck that takes you into some of the exhibits to feed and get to know the animals face-to-face.

For something a little more casual, and easier for little ones, visit the Tiger Splash show. The entire show involves people playing, swimming and running around with a tiger. A mix of comedy and crazy, it’s just plain fun, and a great family activity. Those brave enough can stick around and feed a tiger, too.

Even more adrenaline-pumping encounters await at the park’s African bush safari, giant snake show and predator feed. There’s also a Wonders of Wildlife show that's a big hit. 

Visitors can even camp out at the park during select times of the year, opt for a special VIP behind-the-scenes tour, or take a photography workshop for a little something extra. And bonus: The park is free during your birthday month.

Out of Africa also has one final option: the Predator Zip Line. You can fly over all those spectacular animals for an aerial view that’s to die for. It’s the only one of its kind. 

The park even has great lunch options that won’t break your budget. Of all the burger, sandwich and hotdog options, we recommend The Kibo (turkey on grilled sourdough) when you get the chance.

Out of Africa is in Camp Verde, Arizona, about a 75-minute drive from central Phoenix . It’s located about 30 minutes south of Sedona.

Out of Africa 3505 W. SR-260, Camp Verde 928-567-2840

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Phoenix Zoo’s collaboration with Ramat Gan Safari

Sept. 18, 2023.

The Phoenix Zoo is constantly working to expand its conservation programs to help save endangered animals. The Zoo’s latest effort is a collaboration with its sister city zoo, Ramat Gan Safari, in Israel. This partnership will focus on the conservation efforts of the Eurasian griffon vulture.

To find out more about this, we welcomed Bert Castro, President and CEO of Phoenix Zoo. Also joining us by Zoom was Oren Ben-Yosef, Director of the Ramat Gan Safari, and animal handler Kim Richards who brought along a feathered friend: a turkey vulture named Morticia!

Playing a critical role in natural ecosystems, vultures are the most threatened raptors in the world, and both Phoenix Zoo and Ramat Gan Safari share the common goal of working on conservation programs to ensure their survival. There is an Art Exhibit and Fundraising Reception focused on this at the Phoenix Zoo on October 15.

The new art show at Phoenix Zoo’s “The Bigger Picture” shows that even though separated by over 7,000 miles, Phoenix, Arizona, and Ramat Gan, Israel, share a special bond. Not only are they sister cities, but they are home to world-class zoos dedicated to their respective missions of animal conservation.

Details about “The Bigger Picture” event

Guests will listen to the plight of the imperiled Eurasian griffon vulture in a speech by Dr. David Eshar, Director of Animal Health and the Executive Director of the Wildlife Hospital of Israel and Safari Zoological Center of Ramat Gan, and Dr. Gillad Goldstein, Zoo Curator of Israel’s Ramat Gan Safari. After the presentation, guests will enjoy an exclusive opening reception in the Zoo’s Savanna Gallery, where a collaborative photo exhibit adorns the walls. The exhibit showcases images from both organizations, focusing on what binds us together rather than what sets us apart. Net proceeds of this event will go toward the goal of enlarging Ramat Gan’s vulture habitat, allowing the opportunity to add two more breeding pairs to its current single pair, in hopes of further increasing Israel’s wild population. Donations over $100 will be entered into a drawing to name a newborn animal at the Ramat Gan Safari. Please enter through the Nina Mason Pulliam South Gate at 5:30 p.m. The event is outdoors and will happen rain or shine. Please dress accordingly.

Event details

• Date: October 15, 2023
• Location: Phoenix Zoo
• Time: 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Price: $25 per person

For ticket information, click here .

In this segment:

Bert Castro, President and CEO, The Phoenix Zoo; Oren Ben-Yosef, Director, Ramat Gan Safari; Kim Richards, animal handler, The Phoenix Zoo

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• 10 Best Phoenix Safaris That Will Help You Pamper The Adventurer In You

23 Mar 2023

Phoenix, known for its year-round sun and warm temperatures, is a city where mankind and wildlife have coexisted peacefully. Thanks to the presence of numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in and around Phoenix, safari tours are the best way to enjoy the wildlife of this beautiful city. Luckily, most of the zoos and national parks here provide the best safari tours and guided-tours as part of their packages, which gives tourists the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves into the wild side of Phoenix.

So, there’s no reason to keep yourself waiting because there’s a lot that awaits you in this U.S. city.

10 Best Safaris In Phoenix

Here are the 10 Phoenix safaris that we think you should not miss out while visiting the city. Let not the modern buildings and urban developments of Phoenix fool you what you can experience in a Phoenix Safari.

1. Balloon safaris over Phoenix region

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It is only appropriate that a city which shares its name with a mystical bird gives us an opportunity to see its beauty and magnificence from a bird’s-eye view. So, hop into these 100 feet tall balloons to explore and discover what Phoenix is all about. Constantly rated having high Phoenix safari reviews in all major recommendations-sites such as TripAdvisor, Yelp and Groupon, this Phoenix safari over the skies of Phoenix ranks certainly a must-visit.

Location: 29834 North Cave Creek Rd, Cave Creek, AZ 85331 Timing: Just after the sun-rise Entry Fee: $289 per person

Must Read: 6 Lakes In Phoenix Which Will Give Every Traveler A Relaxing Escape Amidst The Nature!

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2. Phoenix zoo safaris

A Phoenix safari does not get any bigger than the one provided by the Phoenix Zoo, right at the heart of the city. Housing more than 30 species of animals that are either endangered or threatened, the safari tours offered here helps us understand the threats faced in their conservation efforts. Overall, there are four major safari tours provided – Discovery Tours, Backstage Adventures, Guided Tours and Custom Guided tours, all of which are the best ways to engage in a Phoenix safari, wildlife-spotting guaranteed too!

Location: 455 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008 Timing: 9 am to 4 pm, Open on all days Entry Fee: $16.95 (for ages 3-13); $24.95 (for ages 14+)

3. Sea life in Arizona

How about a safari of a different kind? Here, at the Sea Life Arizona Aquarium, one can explore the creatures of the big blue ocean without getting wet. A twenty minutes-drive from downtown Phoenix guarantees you will have a whale of a time, pun intended. With over five thousand creatures at the display, one can easily lose track of time inside this place. Creatures from the Great Pacific Octopus to the Hermit Crab call this their home, making it a one-of-a-kind safari to remember.

Location: 5000 South Arizona Mills Circle, Tempe, AZ 85282 Timing: 10 am to 6 pm, all days except Thursday and Sunday; 11 am to 5 pm on Sundays Entry Fee: $14.95 (for ages 3-12); $19.95 (for ages 13+)

Suggested Read: Phoenix Nightlife: 10 Famous Hot Spots In The City To Venture Out After Dark!

4. Butterfly Wonderland

America’s largest indoor butterfly pavilion, the Butterfly Wonderland is an amazing state-of-the-art facility that houses thousands of butterflies. In this Phoenix safari like no other, people get to meet one of the gentlest creatures known to mankind. The in-built theatre runs regular shows of a 3-D movie titled “Flight of the Butterflies”, which we can safely say is a blockbuster. The main glass atrium is the best place to get a slice of the tropical rainforests and be amongst the butterflies.

Location: 9500 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, USA Timing: 9 am to 5 pm, Open on all days Entry Fee: $15.95 (for ages 2-12); $23.95 (for ages 13+)

5. Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium, and Safari Park

There are a lot of animals! This is what everyone got to say after a day at this amazing site. Home to over six thousand individual animals, one day is simply isn’t enough to fully enjoy this experience in the wild. The African Savannah is now a part and parcel of Arizona and the guided safari tours provided are simply too good to miss. The guides are passionate about the project and are extremely tourist-friendly. So, what are you waiting for!

Location: 16501 West Northern Avenue, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340, USA Timing: 9 am to 6 pm, Open on all days Entry Fee: $19.00 (for ages 3-12); $39.00 (for ages 13+)

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6. Southwest Wildlife Conservation Centre

If you are an animal lover, then this Phoenix safari is the perfect one for you. The Southwest Wildlife Conservation Centre, established in 1994 rescues and rehabilitates injured, orphaned and disabled wildlife. Since its mission is to preserve wildlife, it is not open to public unless reservations are made online for their “Walk with the Wildlife” tours, which is a two-hour tour where one can meet and greet the famous mountain lions of Arizona.

Location: 27026 North 156th Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85262 Timing: NA Entry Fee: $15.00 (for ages 3-12); $25.00 (for ages 13+)

7. Out of Africa Wildlife Park

About eight miles from downtown Phoenix, is the “Out of Africa” wildlife park, which brings Africa to the citizens of Phoenix. One need not have his passport stamped to experience the sights of exotic free-roaming animals. Creatures of Africa, such as the Zebras, African Elephants, Giraffes, Antelopes, Hyenas, and many others are the main highlights of this African Bush Safari. Each animal at this wildlife park has its own origin-story and its worth to hear them out. Also, they don’t like to be called a zoo, so never call them a zoo!

Location: 3675 West Summit Point, Camp Verde, AZ 86322 Timing: 9.30 am to 5 pm, except on Thursdays Entry Fee: $18.95 (for ages 3-12); $33.95 (for ages 13+)

Suggested Read: Shopping In Phoenix: 9 Best Places For Treating Yourself With Ultimate Retail Therapy

8. Hiking in San Tan Mountain Regional Park

This Phoenix safari is for all fitness-freaks out there! With over eighty miles of trails, ranging from beginner to advanced, the San Tan Mountain Regional Park gives us more than we paid for. The Scorpion Hunt, the moonlight trails, the Goldmine trails are all well-frequented due to its popularity and are the perfect weekend getaway for the adventure seekers who love the wildlife.

Location: 6533 West Phillips Road, Queen Creek, AZ 85142, USA Timing: Sunday-Thursday 6 am to 8 pm; Friday-Saturday 6 am to 10 pm Entry Fee: Visit

9. Thunderbird Conservation Park

The 1,185 acres park in the Hedgpeth Hills, is dedicated to preserving the desert environment and also provides opportunities to trek, hike, ride bicycles as well as bird-watching. Creatures from the small rock, squirrels to the mighty Mountain Lions call this area, home. There are wildlife viewing blinds located within this park for the convenience of the visitors. This is the one place in Phoenix, where you can combine hiking and exploring wildlife at the same time.

Location: 22800 59th Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85310 Timing: 7 am to 5.30 pm. Open on all days Entry Fee: Free

Suggested Read: 7 Best Water Parks In Phoenix That’ll Give You Both A Dose Of Thrill And Adventure

10. Desert Botanical Garden

This American Alliance of Museums accredited botanical garden is home to nearly 4,500 displays of flora in living condition. With fascinating exhibitions, events and festivals held around the year, this Phoenix Safari is for those who adore the flora of the deserts. The gardens are spread over 140 acres and make the otherwise boring cacti, interesting, thanks to their interactive exhibitions. This is the chance to fulfill your desire to visit the desert.

Location: 1201 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008 Timing: NA Entry Fee: $12.95 (for ages 3-17); $24.95 (for ages 17+)

Further Read: 7 Museums In Phoenix That Will Satiate Your Appetite For Art, Culture And More!

The above list of Phoenix safaris shows us that Phoenix is not always about the heat, the aridness, and the humidity. It hosts some of the finest safari tours in the whole of America thanks to the sincere efforts by its officials and citizens. The number of national parks, conservation centers, wildlife sanctuaries bears testament to how much Phoenicians love their wildlife and how far they would go to preserve it. So, zip up your backpack and head out on your USA trip with TravelTriangle now. After all, anything can wait, but a U.S. trip cannot!

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2 zoos, 7,000 miles apart in Phoenix and Israel, unite to preserve imperiled vulture

It might seem odd that the Phoenix Zoo is working to save a vulture native to northern Africa.

But the focus on a bird from the other side of the world makes sense when you consider these regions share a similar desert landscape and climate. 

And it's happened before. Did you know the Phoenix Zoo once saved the unicorn ? 

Bear with us.

In the early 1960s, the Arabian oryx was on the brink of extinction. 

This elegant white antelope, native to the Arabian Peninsula, evolved to thrive in the desert. They're able to endure hot, swirling winds and hydrate by grazing on plants. They move in small herds, coming alive at dawn and dusk to avoid the unforgiving midday sun.

The oryx has dark, distinctive facial markings that contrast with its pale coat, and striking slender horns running skyward in a symmetrical arc. From certain angles, these two horns may appear as one. And unlike antlers, they do not spring forth annually, or regrow if broken.

That's why some believe the oryx is the origin of the one-horned unicorn myth.

The oryx is beloved, the national animal of Jordan, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. It was also coveted by hunters, who sought its meat, hide and horn. 

Back in the 1960s, it had been hunted into near-oblivion. As numbers plummeted, a cohort of international ecologists intervened, searching for the right place to raise a captive herd.

They chose the Phoenix Zoo, which was still in its infancy. They hoped the oryx, used to scorching desert sands, would thrive in Arizona's arid climate.

And it did.

"At that time, there were probably around 25 Arabian oryx left on the planet," said Bert Castro, president and CEO of the Phoenix Zoo. "There are now over 8,000." 

The program was such a success that the oryx was reintroduced to the Arabian Peninsula, where some 1,200 now live in the wild. The rest are in wildlife preserves and zoos across the globe. 

"All those animals basically come from the mother herd that started here in the Phoenix Zoo," Castro said.

It's one of the great conservation success stories. Now, the Phoenix Zoo hopes to write another with a species that doesn't have quite the same sparkly allure as an almost-unicorn. 

The janitors of nature

These bald scavengers, their names synonymous with exploitation and greed, are perhaps not obvious candidates for an act of cross-hemisphere goodwill.

But beyond their beady eyes and haughty demeanor, they have a vital status as the janitors of nature. Vultures are essential workers, whose iron stomachs and zeal for rotting meat help prevent the spread of disease.

Sometimes, they pay for it with their lives.

Their scavenging habits make them uniquely vulnerable to poisonings. These incidents can be deliberate or accidental, wrought by farmers, hunters or poachers. However they happen, they kill vultures across the world in staggering numbers.

In Africa, where poaching remains an ecological crisis, circling vultures are a telltale sign of a carcass and a clear tip to patrollers that an animal has been illegally killed. To avoid broadcasting their misdeeds, some poachers have taken to lacing carcasses with poison to bring the vultures down with devastating efficiency.

"We were in Zimbabwe about a year and a half ago," Castro said, "and there was a case where a poacher killed an elephant and laced the elephant with poison and killed over 600 vultures from that one carcass."

Among the most at risk is the Rüppell's griffon vulture, a critically endangered African species that is the highest-flying bird in the world. It has been known to soar up to 37,000 feet, a record set in 1973, when a Rüppell's vulture came off second best in a collision with a passenger plane over Ivory Coast.

A flock resides at the Phoenix Zoo, which is enthusiastically involved in Rüppell's griffon vulture conservation. More than 30 chicks have been born from its successful captive breeding program.

The Rüppell's vulture is a bird of the Old World, a phrase for species that originated in Europe, Asia or Africa. There are New World vultures too, with origins in the Americas, including three species that call Arizona home. Among them is the California condor.

These birds, with a wingspan that can stretch 9.5 feet, were brought back from the brink of extinction in the 1980s. Today, wild condors can be found gliding over the Grand Canyon.

But the population is still plagued by lead poisoning, caused by the birds ingesting toxic fragments left behind in the carcasses of hunted animals.

Endangered bird: Condors take flight near Grand Canyon, but lead ammo could ground the species

A global collaboration

Back in 2019, Castro, the Phoenix Zoo CEO, met a man named Oren Ben-Yosef at a conference in Argentina. 

Ben-Yosef is the CEO of the Safari Ramat Gan , a sprawling zoo just east of Tel Aviv, Israel, that counts a herd of white rhinoceros among its menagerie.

Though some 7,000 miles apart, the two zoos have a connection: Phoenix and Ramat Gan have been sister cities since 2005. Spurred on by this bond, Castro and Ben-Yosef began to talk about a potential collaboration.

It took a while to land on the right species and project. But eventually, they found common ground in vultures.

The sister city zoos work with Old World species that are close cousins: in Phoenix, the Rüppell's griffon vulture, and in Ramat Gan, the Eurasian griffon vulture.

While not in peril on a global scale, the Eurasian griffon vulture is endangered in Israel, where its numbers in the wild have dwindled to just 200.

Ben-Yosef told The Republic of frequent accidental poisonings, caused by farmers who bait livestock predators with tainted meat.

"Their goal was to hurt the predators, the coyotes or the jackals, but the vultures don't know it," Ben-Yosef said.

Two years ago, 12 Eurasian griffon vultures were brought to the Safari Ramat Gan's wildlife hospital after being poisoned in this way, he said. Only two could be saved.

With numbers on a knife edge, losing so many vultures in one fell swoop was a significant setback.

It was heightened by the fact that Eurasian griffon vultures mate for life and reproduce at the leisurely pace of one chick per year.

"It's not an economical way to grow the population," Ben-Yosef said.

It's also, he added, not simple to find a bereaved bird a new mate. "The matchmaking between the vultures is complicated."

The current vulture habitat at the Safari Ramat Gan can hold one breeding pair. Ben-Yosef wants to expand it to hold three, so the zoo can escalate its captive breeding program.

War stopped the fundraiser, but gallery went ahead

The Phoenix Zoo planned to host a fundraiser for the habitat expansion on Oct. 15.

Guests would listen to visiting staff from the Safari Ramat Gan as they discussed the vulture's plight and the care provided by the zoo's wildlife hospital.

However, the event was canceled after war broke out between Israel and Hamas, making it impossible for zoo staff to fly to Arizona. The Safari Ramat Gan has also temporarily closed.

One element of the collaboration did go ahead: a new photo exhibition , titled "The Bigger Picture." A version has been installed at each zoo.

The 60-odd images portray animals and conservation projects underway in Phoenix and Ramat Gan, highlighting points of connection between the two regions. 

In Phoenix, it can be viewed at the zoo's Savanna Gallery until April 28. 

Modern zoos as Noah's Ark

Both Ben-Yosef and Castro, who spoke to The Republic before the Israel-Hamas war broke out, hope the vulture project is the start of a long and fruitful conservation journey. 

The 7,000 miles make it a little difficult, Castro said. But both sides are committed to making it work. "Conservation can really only be successful if you're cooperating with others," he said. 

Castro said accredited zoos in the United States are essentially conservation organizations.

"We're a great place to take your family, have wholesome fun, enjoy the day, and see animals that you might not ever have an opportunity to see," he said.

"But when you look at our mission, it's all about saving those species in the wild." 

Ben-Yosef likened zoos to a modern Noah's Ark, keeping species afloat from the flood of environmental damage, habitat destruction and death caused by the human race.

He said the Safari Ramat Gan and Phoenix Zoo have a mission in common: "To not just be the ark, but to educate the people to stop being the flood."

He imagines a future, he added, where there is no need to hold animals in captivity.

Spooky Safari

Home Zoo Events Spooky Safari

🎃💀 calling all ghosts and goblins 👻🦇

The Phoenix Zoo is hosting three spook-tacular nights featuring: Trick-or-treating | FREE facepainting | Live animals | Ghoulish games |  Creepy crafts | And more!

Event Details

October 25, 26 & 27, 2023

FRIDAY OCTOBER 27 SOLD OUT

Phoenix Zoo

5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

$15 per person

Children 2 and under are free

Please no costumes with weapons, masks or fake blood!

What to expect

Trick-or-treat through the Zoo and stop by the themed candy stations all across the park!

DJ Mars | Arizona Ghostbusters | Dino Crew Entertainment | Dr. T- Rex | Fair Maidens & Masks | Dune Sea Garrison Star Wars Troop | Justice League Arizona | Arizona Avengers | Inflatable Dinosaurs | Desert Raptors

Limb-BOO | Crayola Experience Coloring Booth | Face painting | Tic Tac TOES | Creepy Target Challenge | Monster Mash | Feeding Fun | Witch Hat Toss | Spooky Bowling | “Ghostbusters” Hi Striker

• $2 Members | $3 General
• $7 Members | $8 General

Kettle Korner | Safari Snacks | Crossroads Café

sponsorship​s

 All sponsors will receive marketing, recognition, event hospitality and additional benefits based on level of support.

Availability: 1

Event Hospitality

• 50  Daytime general admission tickets
• 10′ x 10′ area to interact with guests (all 3 nights)

Availability: Several

• 20  Daytime general admission tickets
• 10′ x 10′ area to interact with guests (1 night)
• 10  Daytime general admission tickets

Contributing

• 5  Daytime general admission tickets

Thank you to our sponsors!

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities please contact:

Christine Boisen | Sponsorship Manager [email protected] 602.286.3833

Admission includes entrance into the Phoenix Zoo and access to games and entertainment. Food and beverage will be available for purchase. Tickets are nontransferable and nonrefundable. The number of tickets available is limited. Events often sell out early. Tickets are valid only during specific event dates and hours. Prices, entertainment, attractions, experiences, ticket types, entitlements and other event elements subject to change without notice.

7 Small Towns To Retire Near Phoenix, Arizona

• Rio Verde is a peaceful haven for active retirees who love golf and nature, with a 55+ community and world-class golf courses.
• Wittmann offers a tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by natural beauty and outdoor activities, perfect for retirees seeking a laid-back lifestyle.
• Carefree, a suburb of Phoenix, is a small town with a vibrant community, beautiful desert landscape, and plenty of activities for all retirees.

Hearing the word American Southwest automatically takes travelers to Arizona, where they can experience the true Wild West, particularly in Wickenburg , which is only an hour away from the state capital. While Phoenix offers the best of everything, many retirees would love to live in a small town, where life is laid-back, and the outdoor activities are perfect for the elderly.

Fortunately, there are charming small towns near Phoenix that retirees can consider their permanent home and are less than an hour away from the state capital. These small towns have fewer than 8,000 residents and give retirees easy access to Phoenix. Here are some of the best seven towns to retire near Phoenix, Arizona.

10 Small Arizona Towns Perfect For Introverts

Distance from phoenix: 42.8 miles (51 minutes).

Offering a suburban rural mixed living, Rio Verde is one of the best small towns near Phoenix to retire in, especially because of its low crime rate, mild climate, and plenty of nature to commune with. The ultimate thing about it? It's a community for the elderly of at least 55+ and those who are under 19 years old are not allowed to be a permanent resident in Rio Verde!

For retirees who are into golf, Rio Verde is a fortress of golf, especially with its Rio Verde Country Club , which offers two world-class parkland-style golf courses.

• 2020 Decennial Population: 2,210
• Cost of Living Index: 113%
• Crime Rate Index: 13.8%

Distance from Phoenix: 46.7 miles (45 minutes)

Arizona is probably the best budget vacation destination for nature lovers , and Wittmann, apart from being a small-town charm with a laid-back atmosphere, is a great example of this; its location is surrounded by natural spaces and the town enjoys a tranquil location.

For those hoping to spend their golden years in a town like Wittman, this is also one of the many great small towns to retire in near Phoenix because of its strong housing market and quality healthcare.

Originally named Nadaburg , ( Nada , Spanish term for "nothing" and Burg, German term for "castle"), the town is also popular for its outdoor activities, such as off-roading, hiking, and sightseeing, because of its location right in the heart of Arizona's scenic desert landscape. Wittmann is also a short drive to beautiful tourist attractions, including Lake Pleasant Regional Park and Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park .

• 2020 Decennial Population: 684
• Crime Rate Index: 20.8%

Distance from Phoenix: 35.5 miles (41 minutes)

Living in Carefree is as carefree as retirees would love to be. All types of retirees—active or not—will have their time of life in this small town of less than 4,000 residents. It's a suburb of Scottsdale and Phoenix, framed against the gorgeous landscape of the Sonoran Desert.

Arizona is filled with off-the-grid towns perfect for nature lovers , and Carefree doesn't disappoint in that category; retirees and visitors alike will love the life of flora and fauna at the Carefree Desert Gardens , the crowning jewel of the town, which is free to the public.

For retirees who love to just stroll around and shop, Carefree hosts the Friday Farmer's Market at the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion. Dining, shopping, arts & crafts, and festivals are also vibrant in Carefree, including the Thunderbirds Carefree Spring Fine Art & Wine Festival .

• 2020 Decennial Population: 3,690
• Crime Rate Index: 25.7%

Thunderbirds Carefree Spring Fine Art & Wine Festival Admission Fees

The two-day Thunderbirds Carefree Spring Fine Art & Wine Festival happens annually in March at the Carefree Town Center.

This Might Be The Most Affordable Place To Live In Arizona

Distance from phoenix: 33.5 miles (38 minutes).

One of the most picturesque small towns in Arizona , Cave Creek is in the heart of the Sonoran Desert on the foothills of the Black Mountains with lots of outdoor activities, perfect for active retirees. With less than 5,000 residents, this small-town charm is popular for its spectacular horseback riding activity within the gorgeous Sonoran Desert that attracts travelers from around the world.

Cave Creek is one of the small Arizona towns perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and any retiree will love its gorgeous natural world and quality healthcare for its residents.

• 2020 Decennial Population: 4,892
• Crime Rate Index: 26.5%

Litchfield Park

Distance from phoenix: 20 miles (23 minutes).

Twenty miles west of Phoenix sits Litchfield Park , a historic town popular for its tourist attractions, including the Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park , and its beautiful city parks that are hosts to many different events and festivals.

Offering incredible views of the Sonoran Desert, Litchfield Park is one of the best small towns to retire to near Phoenix because of its relaxed living, warm climate, fast job growth, and a high median value and strong appreciation rate in the housing market.

• 2020 Decennial Population: 6,847
• Crime Rate Index: 27.7%

Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park Hours, Tickets, & Rental

Groups of 10 or more, military, AAA, and senior discounts are also offered at the Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park. Those who pay via debit or credit cards will be charged a 4% fee.

Distance from Phoenix: 18.4 miles (30 minutes)

Tucked away in the heart of the Northwest Valley, Youngtown , despite its name, is the oldest planned retirement haven in the United States that restricted 16-year-olds from living in town, until it was repealed in 1999. With only a little more than 7,000 residents, Youngtown has a small-town vibe with a low crime rate and a growing and stable housing market .

Retirees will love Youngtown's laid-back atmosphere and its beautiful parks, where they can celebrate special occasions, have a picnic, barbecues, or simply stroll around. Youngtown is also home to senior communities, including Lifestream Senior Living and Ventura Winds Retirement Home —two of the top employers in town.

• 2020 Decennial Population: 7,056
• Crime Rate Index: 17.9%

7 Arizona Road Trips That All End At The Grand Canyon

Distance from phoenix: 12.5 miles (16 minutes).

A crowning jewel in the West Valley, Tolleson is one of the many lovely towns to retire near Phoenix because of its quality healthcare, fast-growing economy, and spectacular tourism. Located just south of Interstate 10 and other major highways, Tolleson's relaxed vibe and desert beauty are its fortress as a perfect place to retire.

The town is also near, Estrella Mountain Regional Park , which is is one of the many amazing stops on plenty of scenic drives near Phoenix through the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, Tolleson is a perfect place to retire for any retirees seeking a permanent home with a warm climate.

• 2020 Decennial Population: 7,216
• Crime Rate Index: 37.7%

Estrella Mountain Regional Park Fees & Hours