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Austin is one of the most beautiful destinations in the USA. If you are looking for a relaxing holiday and planning to go to Austin then ‘relaxing’ is exactly what you would NOT be doing. Yes, that’s right! Since there is so much to see and experience in the city, there is hardly time to sit and relax. The vibrant city is very famous for Austin wildlife, street food, food trucks, various national parks, outdoor activities, and so much more. Every day there would be all about exploring the various lanes, trails, and visiting various other places. From kids to elders, the place has something for everyone. This city is a hub especially for the adventure enthusiasts as the city has more than 200 beaches, 205 parks, 14 nature preserves and unlimited hiking trails where many outdoor activities happen like kayaking, camping, trekking, etc.

About Wildlife In Austin, Texas

Among others, one thing Austin is very famous for is its wildlife. There are numerous wildlife parks and safaris that one can visit during their trip to the city. Upon visiting you would be spotting some very exotic as well as local animals. Here’s looking at a few of these places where you can go to see the wildlife.

5 Best Places To Witness Austin Wildlife

Austin is famous for its wildlife. There are a lot of animals and birds that can be spotted and petted in this city. Here’s a list of places where one needs to visit to make the most of their rendezvous with these exotic animals.

1. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Natural-Bridge-Wildlife-Ranch1

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Not exactly in Austin, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is located at a distance of 1 hour and a few minutes from the city. It was created in 1984 and today covers 450 acres of land. This is one of those places that also organizes wildlife safari in Austin actually near the city. This is the longest running and most visited safari in Texas and has more than 40 species and 500 animals. Visitors can spot giraffes, rhinos, zebras, ostrich and many more. Apart from this, there is a petting area for kids, a sweet shop, a souvenir shop, and a restaurant. The best part about this place is that visitors get to feed animals while on the African safari.

Location: 26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX
Timing: 9 AM to 6 PM
Famous for: Petting zoo and feeding the wild animals

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2. Austin Zoo

Austin Zoo

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Visiting Austin wildlife park is one of the best things to do to see some wildlife but to have a closer experience you must visit Austin Zoo. Among many other destinations, Austin zoo is one of the most visited places in the city by tourists from around the world. You, of course, get to see and spot some of the most magnificent and exotic animals here but other than that you also get to learn a lot about them. The zoo is home to more than 300 animals of different species like Bengal tiger, African Lions, porcupines, 3 different species of monkeys, all add to the Austin wildlife. You can visit the zoo and make a day out of it by picnicking here. To have an even closer experience with the animals, there is a feeding room. You may also shop from the gift shop from where things like apparel, souvenirs, etc can be bought.

Location: 10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX
Timing: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
Famous for: Feeding area and train ride

Suggested Read: 10 Best Things To Do In Austin For An Avid Traveler

3. Colorado River Park Wildlife Sanctuary

Colorado River Park Wildlife Sanctuary

Though famous for hiking and trailing, Colorado River Park Wildlife Sanctuary is another famous place in Austin which is often visited by tourists. Since this is a preserve, there is equivalent to no infrastructure in this area including public toilets. The place is home to several endangered species that can be spotted here if you are lucky. Hence stay shush and keep your eyes wide and open.

Location: 827 Levander Loop, Austin, TX
Timing: 5 AM to 10 PM
Famous for: Spotting endangered species

Must Read: 10 Texas Tourist Attractions That You Cannot Miss On Your Maiden Trip

4. Zilker Nature Preserve

Zilker Nature Preserve

Spread over 350 acres of land, Zilker Nature Preserve is a serene and blissful place to spend some time outdoors with mother nature. There is a hiking trail that you can go to that not many people are aware of. This preserve is where you can spot some bobcats and get some knowledge from the educational exhibits here. You can also come across dinosaur pits here.

Location: 301 Nature Center Dr, Austin, TX
Timing: 5 AM to 10 PM
Famous for: Spotting bobcats

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5. Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve

Peacock National Bird Of India - Kanha National Park

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Visiting any Austin Bird Sanctuary is a good idea if you want to spot some exotic birds but they might not have what Mayfield Park has. The beautiful place is widely popular for the many peacocks that can be spotted here. There are 2 types of species of peafowls that are present here. One of them is India Blue and the other one is Black Shoulder. The peahen of Black Shoulder species is mostly white in color. When you visit this place, gear up and spot these royal beauties sitting on trees. Hiding behind bushes or just relaxing and wandering in the nearby area.

Location: 3505 W 35th St, Austin, TX
Timing: 5 AM to 10 PM
Famous for: Spotting peacocks

Further Read: 5 Best Places To Visit In Texas To Soak In The Warm And Friendly Culture

Going to Animal sanctuary in Austin is one of the best ways to see Austin wildlife. Your visit to any of these places guarantees you a memorable experience spend in the company of some of the most beautiful animals on the planet. Not just apt for you, these attractions are great even for kids who will get to learn a lot. So do not wait and book your USA trip with TravelTriangle now to have an adventure of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions About Austin Wildlife

What is the opening and closing time of Austin Wildlife Rescue?

The opening and closing time of Austin Wildlife Rescue is between 9 AM to 4 PM on all days of the week. So, you can visit this place within the given slot time.

Which are the four most dangerous wildlife in Austin?

Lion, Catamount, Panther, and Fiddleback are considered as the four most dangerous wildlife in Austin. If you are always excited to witness such fauna then you must see these animals

What are species of wild cats found in Austin?

Jaguarundi, Ocelot, Margay, and Jaguar are the kinds of species that you will find in Austin. Also, there are feline species in Austin, bobcats, and the mountain lion.

What are the best wildlife places I can visit in Austin for feeding and watching animals?

The best wildlife places you can visit in Austin are Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, Austin Zoo, Zilker Nature Preserve, and Mayfield Park & Nature Preserve

What are the durations of Zilker Nature Preserve and what can you do there?

The duration of Zilker Nature Preserve is from 5 AM to 10 PM and also you will spot out some of the bobcats in that Preserve.

What is the location and timing of Colorado River Park Wildlife Sanctuary?

827 Levander Loop, Austin, TX is the location of Colorado River Park Wildlife Sanctuary and the timings are from 5 AM-10 PM.

In which wildlife zoo can I find the opportunity to feed the animals and ride on the train?

In Austin Wildlife Park, you will find the opportunity to feed the animals as well as ride on the train. It is one of the best places to explore in Austin with family and kids.


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Category: Austin, Texas, Things To Do, USA, Wildlife

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