Santa Barbara Zoo in Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara County , United States | Zoo

The Santa Barbara Zoo is home to 160 species of mammals, reptiles, birds and insects. More than 500 animals are exhibited in open, naturalistic habitats.  The Santa Barbara Zoo is dedicated to the preservation, conservation, and enhancement of the natural world and its living treasures through education, research, and recreation.   Known as one of the world's most beautiful Zoos, the Santa Barbara Zoo is located on 30 acres of lush botanic gardens overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Andree Clark Bind Refuge and Santa Ynex mountains in the United States.

Opened in June 2006, the former California sea lion exhibit at Santa Barbara Zoo is now home to 14 Humboldt penguins and will later house Inca terns. The penguin exhibit offers both above-ground and underwater viewing, as well as nesting boxes built in for future breeding possibilities. The adjacent aviary will feature Inca terns, and will be home to more birds native to the South American area. Humboldts are found along the Pacific coast of South America from Peru to Chile.

Santa Barbara Zoo participates in the Species Survival Plan (SSP), a vital cooperative conservation program comprised of Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited partner Zoos and aquariums. Over 200 different species are managed, aimed at maintaining genetic diversity within captive populations, sustaining these captive populations, and guarding against extinction.