Do you want to go abroad during pandemic?

San Diego Zoo: After going through the gigantic lion statue and entrance, Flamingos welcome you at a pond.

It’s a difficult time for everybody during the pandemic. How can people enjoy the summer? If you feel like going “abroad”, going to a Zoo might be a good idea. I visited the San Diego Zoo in May. Of course, this is not seeing birds in the wild, but seeing so many kinds of exotic birds without taking an international flight is fun and refreshing (not to mention cheaper and healthier).

There are three aviaries, ponds and various other cages wide spread in the Zoo.

Here are a few of the birds I saw:

Crested Coua from savanna and brushland of Madagascar

Toco Toucan from a large part of central and eastern South America. The blue part is not eye, it’s skin.

Taveta Golden Weaver from the Savannah in coastal East Africa was making a nest.

Madagascar Ibis from Madagascar, sitting in a nest

Common Waxbill from sub-Saharan Africa

Golden-breasted Starling from Northeastern Africa

White-headed Buffalo Weaver from East Africa

Great Blue Turaco from African tropical rainforest

Purple Starling from Africa

Hamerkop from Africa and Madagascar

Although the Hummingbird building was closed for COVID-19, I saw some wild hummingbirds near the Elephants.

Allen’s Hummingbird immature

Take a look at the gallery for additional photos.

Here’s some tips to enjoy the Zoo:

The Zoo is a huge place! Walking up and down hills and stairs. There are elevators a few places. Wear comfortable walking shoes and a hat. Get tickets and reservation time online.

By the way, I got lost in the Zoo even though I had the map. Using the phone App down below might be useful. Treetops Cafe’s ice cream was good for a break. Enjoy your visit!