We were lucky recently to receive free passes to the Oakland Zoo, which gave us the motivation to check it out.  They have recently re-opened their children’s zoo, and it was great!

James and I were remembering when we were kids, and they had the giant tortoises in the childrens zoo. In those days it was not at all humane, we used to climb all over those prehistoric creatures!  More recently, in the last couple of years, the zoo had seemed really run down.

Needless to say, we were pleasantly surprised by the new lower entrance that was added, as well as with the children’s area.  The most interesting thing for me was the fruit bat display.  I have never seen these creatures up close, and they were so strange and creepy.  Their wings looked like umbrellas, and their little faces looked like foxes.  Our youngest son Jimmy thought they were really cool, along with the ring-tailed lemurs that reminded him of one of his favorite shows, Zoboomafoo.

We happened upon feeding time for the giant Komodo Dragon.  His keepers were luring him down from the rocks with snails and giant cockroaches.  I am so glad I am not in the zoo business!  It was disgusting!

There is and indoor reptile and amphibian exhibit that showcases frogs in a dozen different colors, from bright yellow, to red, to spotted green.  We arrived late in the day, and only spent 90 minutes there, but will go back for sure!  Check it out with your family, you will enjoy it.