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I love going to this place and it had been quite some time since I had a chance to visit. I’m not sure why, but for some reason or another it just didn’t make it on my list of things to do. Early in April I finally went again and I was thrilled to have the company of my daughter. There are few ‘likes’ that she and I share; clothes shopping, heading to the outdoor pool on a hot summer day, a matinée movie at the Canyon Meadows Theatre  (they make the best Nachos and Cheese, better than any other theatre I’ve been to, but I digress) and the Calgary Zoo.

We got there late, around 2:30 in the afternoon and we were both excited about seeing the new Penguin exhibit. However the line for the 15 minute tour of the exhibit was about 2 hours long and although patience is a virtue, it seems to be a link that is missing in our family DNA profile. Momentarily disappointed we decided to make the best of it.

First stop: Africa

I love these critters. The way that one stands guard like a Sentinel while the rest are about their business. I don’t know who this little girl is but I love the way she is regarded by this meerkat.

We stopped to see the Hippos. Unfortunately the picture I took through the glass had a big flash through it. The Gorillas left a sign for spectators though. I have to say, I agree. (The Primates are my favourite exhibit, but we’ll get to that.)

I once read that some people, somewhere, used to think that Giraffes were a cross between Camels and Leopards!

When I was a kid, one of my goals was to ride a Zebra when I grew up – with a saddle and all just like a horse. Don’t laugh! I have a friend whose son wanted to be a baseball.

WHAT! I know, right? Seriously…..

Second Stop: The Rain Forest

Yay the Gorillas! I couldn’t help thinking this one was deep in thought. Probably thinking ‘EGADS those humans are staring again – how rude!’ Maybe that’s why he kept turning his back to us. I think I like them so much because they’re so similar to us…you know the whole opposing thumb thing and stuff…

Third Stop: Asia

Our last stop was the Elephants (they’re Michaela’s favourite) I hear they will be moving soon where they will be able to roam as elephants do. This has made Bob Barker very happy and he was recorded as saying, “I think Calgary deserves a big standing ovation for this decision.” It’s such a relief when retired game show hosts feel that we are doing the right thing. We will miss the elephants but there’s really not enough space for them in the zoo and it’s the right thing to do even if Bob had not endorsed it. For more information about the Elephant move click here.

What’s your favourite animal exhibit in your zoo? When is the last time you played tourist in your own city?