Hero image with grey kangaroo and tree kangaroo

May 18–19, 2024

Wild Weekend: Australian Forest

Journey with us to the land down under. Found along Australia’s northern and eastern coasts, eucalyptus forests are home to some of Earth’s most unique and iconic wildlife. Koalas, cassowaries, kangaroos, and platypuses are just some of the intriguing species that live in these vast ecosystems. They’re home to nearly 900 species of eucalyptus in all shapes and sizes, providing food, shelter, and resources for a variety of wildlife. With the health of Australian forests threatened by the growing frequency and intensity of bushfires due to climate change and habitat fragmentation, we’re working to safeguard the future for these critically important ecosystems.

 

Say g’day to some of this iconic wildlife during Wild Weekend: Australian Forest at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Climb, hop, and burrow in to discover how we’re saving, protecting, and caring for wildlife across these native landscapes. Plus, learn how allies like you make a difference through our Australian Forest Conservation Hub. Bring the whole family and some mates for interactive activities and wildlife care specialist talks all weekend long: Saturday, May 18, and Sunday, May 19, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

a side view of a cassowary

 

Ask a Wildlife Care Specialist

  • 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
  • Various Locations

Ever wondered what kangaroos eat, or how closely they’re related to the tree-dwelling marsupials they share a name with? Or which striking birds are native to the continent? Meet wildlife care specialists to get the scoop on Australian forest wildlife and the incredible efforts you make possible to protect their future.

  • Cassowary, 12 p.m., the Woolshed in Walkabout Australia
  • Australian birds, 1 p.m., the Water Tower in Walkabout Australia
eucalyptus flower blooming

Ask a Horticulturist

  • 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
  • Nairobi Village Walk

Eucalyptus forests make up over 75 percent of all forests in Australia. Join our expert horticulturists to check out the variety of plant life in these forest ecosystems along with other fascinating flora.

tree kangaroo

Wildlife Tales Story Time

  • 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.
  • Village Playground Stage

Become immersed in tales of dynamic wildlife with our education team. Through storytelling, you’ll get to know species that call Australian forests home and just what makes them so interesting. It’s a family favorite, and there might even be surprise special guests!

grey kangaroo in the ferns

Engage in Conservation

  • 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
  • Nairobi Village Walk

Hop into a variety of fun, educational experiences for all ages. You’ll engage in activities about Australian animals and plants while learning how allies like you make a difference through our Australian Forest Conservation Hub.

platypus

Pledges for Wildlife

  • 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
  • Nairobi Village Walk

Participate in a community art project while pledging to take conservation action to safeguard the future for wildlife throughout Australian forests.

Photo of kangaroo face

Behind the Scenes: Walkabout Australia

  • Reservation Required

Join us on this exclusive 90-minute walking tour. As you experience your own “walkabout,” our expert guide will share insider stories about Australian wildlife and introduce you to a variety of breathtaking birds and marvelous marsupials.

photo of a platypus plush, postcard, and SDZWA pin

Wildlife Adoptions

Your symbolic adoption of a koala or platypus helps save, protect, and care for wildlife in San Diego, across Australia, and around the world.

baby tree kangaroo in pouch

Conservation Begins with You

Your continued support helps save wildlife worldwide, from here in the Southwest to Australia’s diverse ecosystems and beyond. Become a hero for wildlife and support our Australian Forest Conservation Hub and more with a monthly gift today.

SDZWA adventures botswana elephant
SDZWA Adventures

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