Zoo Etiquette: 12 Do's and Don'ts (and Why They Matter)

A good zoo visit is good for everyone: you get a better view, other visitors enjoy their day, and the animals stay calm and healthy. Most zoo rules exist for a simple reason. Here are the ones that matter most, and why.

Don'ts

1. Don't tap on the glass

It's the most common zoo mistake. On the other side, a tap sounds loud and alarming. It doesn't bring animals closer; it makes them nervous, and they may retreat out of sight. Be patient instead: most animals come into view on their own if you wait a few minutes.

2. Don't feed the animals

Unless keepers invite you to, as at some petting areas, giraffe decks or feeding stations, never feed zoo animals. Their diets are carefully planned by nutritionists and vets. Bread, popcorn, chips and other human food can make them sick or overweight. And when food comes in a bag or wrapper, animals can swallow that too.

3. Don't throw coins or anything else into exhibits

Tossing coins into a pool or habitat might feel like making a wish. For the animals, coins and other small objects are a real danger: they can be swallowed and cause poisoning or blockages. The same goes for rocks, sticks and toys.

4. Don't shout, whistle or try to get an animal's attention

Making noise to wake a sleeping animal, or calling to it, stresses it. Many animals sleep much of the day; it's normal, healthy behavior. Come back later or visit at a cooler time of day.

5. Don't climb on or reach over barriers

Railings and fences are there for safety, yours and the animals'. Never lift children over or onto barriers to get a better look, even for a photo. Even animals that look calm can be fast and strong.

6. Don't bring balloons, straws or loose lids

Many zoos ban balloons, plastic straws and drink lids because they can blow into habitats and be swallowed, or tangle around animals. If a zoo hands you a lidless cup, that's why.

7. Don't fly drones or use bright lights

Drones frighten animals, especially birds, and most zoos ban them outright. Many also ban flash photography in indoor, aquarium and nocturnal exhibits, where animals are adapted to low light.

8. Don't bring your pet

Most zoos don't allow pets. Dogs can stress zoo animals, who may see them as predators or prey, and can pass on diseases. Service animals are generally allowed, but some areas, such as walk-through exhibits and petting yards, may be off-limits.

Do's

9. Do supervise children closely

Keep kids in sight, especially near enclosures, water and drop-offs. Teach them the rules before you arrive. Most children love being "zoo rangers" who make sure no one taps the glass.

10. Do wash your hands

After touching animals in a petting area, and before eating, wash with soap and water. Animals can carry germs such as E. coli and salmonella without looking sick.

11. Do leave no trace

Use trash and recycling bins, and keep an eye on small items that could blow away: napkins, wrappers and receipts. Anything that lands in a habitat can end up in an animal.

12. Do listen to the keepers

Keepers know their animals better than anyone. Follow their instructions, and stay for a keeper talk if you can. It's the best way to learn each animal's name, personality and story.

Why it all matters

Zoo animals live where we visit. Calm, unstressed animals behave more naturally, which means healthier animals and a better view for you. The best zoo visits are the patient ones.

For more ways to make the most of your visit, read our tips for a great family day at the zoo, or find a zoo near you.