Watch The Zoo: San Diego

The Zoo: San Diego is an American docuseries that premiered on Animal Planet in August 2019. The show takes viewers behind-the-scenes of the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, showcasing the lives of the animals and the dedicated staff who care for them.

At the heart of the show are the zoo's diverse animal inhabitants, which range from charismatic megafauna like elephants and lions, to lesser-known species like the mang Mountain pit vipers and the Siamese crocodiles. Each episode explores the daily challenges and joys of animal care, tracking everything from veterinary check-ups to feeding and enrichment activities.

Throughout the series, viewers meet a range of staff members, from animal keepers to researchers and veterinarians. Some of the key personalities include Rick Schwartz, the San Diego Zoo's ambassador and spokesperson, and Beth Bicknese, a senior mammal keeper responsible for animals like the zoo's hippopotamuses and baboons. Ranger Ben Nevitt, a former U.S. Marine with a passion for conservation, also features prominently in the series.

In addition to documenting the work of the zoo staff, The Zoo: San Diego also provides a look at the ongoing conservation efforts of the San Diego Zoo Global network. From reintroduction programs for endangered species to research on animal behavior and ecology, the show highlights the vital role the zoo plays in protecting wildlife both locally and globally.

Throughout the series, viewers are treated to gorgeous shots of the zoo and its inhabitants, from sweeping views of the elephant enclosure to up-close encounters with koalas and pandas. The show also makes use of cutting-edge technology, such as cameras mounted on drones and inside animal enclosures, to give viewers a unique perspective on the zoo's daily operations.

Perhaps the greatest strength of The Zoo: San Diego, however, is its ability to tell compelling stories that blend scientific data with emotional resonance. Each episode features a different animal or group of animals, and the show does an excellent job of highlighting the individual personalities and quirks of each creature.

For example, in one episode, viewers meet Albert, a male hippopotamus who has been struggling with a chronic foot injury. Beth and the other caregivers work to create a rehabilitation plan for Albert, using everything from acupuncture to pool therapy to get him back on his feet.

In another episode, viewers get an inside look at the difficult process of introducing two male lions, M'bari and Etosha, to a female lioness named Oshana. Through careful observation and behavioral analysis, the keepers work to ensure a successful integration and the possibility of future offspring.

While the animal stories are undeniably the main draw of The Zoo: San Diego, the show also provides a fascinating look at the day-to-day operations of one of the country's most beloved zoos. From behind-the-scenes glimpses of the animal kitchen to discussions of the zoo's recycling and composting efforts, the show sheds light on the many unsung heroes who keep the zoo running smoothly.

Overall, The Zoo: San Diego is a must-watch for animal lovers and anyone who appreciates a good, heartwarming story. With stunning cinematography, engaging personalities, and a commitment to conservation, the show sets a new standard for wildlife documentary storytelling.

The Zoo: San Diego is a series that is currently running and has 2 seasons (18 episodes). The series first aired on August 10, 2019.