Nestled in the heart of Orange County, California, the Orange County Zoo stands as a cherished gem within the region. Known as a wonderful gathering place for nature-lovers and families, outdoor misters provide a cooled oasis to enjoy park features.
Spanning over 8 acres of lush landscape within the Irvine Regional Park, this zoo offers a unique and immersive experience, showcasing native wildlife species that call Southern California home. Long before modern technology and outdoor misters made their appearance at zoos, this park’s roots began in 1905 when Red Foxes were introduced in the Irvine Park Region. The current zoo officially opened in 1985 as the Irvine Park Zoo and has since changed its name to the OC Zoo. The zoo is owned, staffed and operated by the County of Orange.
The area has four separate display spaces, picnic areas, natural-looking rock walls, climbing platforms, a waterfall element. Secure fencing protects the public as well as minimizes injury to animals. A natural-looking bridge allows people to view animals from above, offering a different vantage point for viewing animal activity. The immersed landscape not only strives to recreate the appearance and sense of the animal’s natural environment, but also to improve visitor experience.
From majestic mountain lions to elusive black bears, the zoo provides visitors with an opportunity to connect with the rich biodiversity of the area. Moreover, its emphasis on conservation and education underscores its importance not only as a recreational destination but also as a vital institution for fostering environmental stewardship. Many of the animals within this sanctuary are injured, orphaned, confiscated, or not releasable into the wild. Animals on exhibit include black bear, mountain lion, bald eagle, kit fox, ocelot, beaver, great horned owl, porcupine, coyote, turkey vulture and more. The zoo also features a barnyard with domestic goats and sheep.
Keeping Animals Cool at the Zoo
Koolfog outdoor misters can help zoo animals keep healthy in their habitats by helping to control noise, temperature, and provide an overall unique lifestyle balance. Depending upon the species and its natural environment, outdoor misters can provide rain forest type of humidification or a cool respite for those dwellers used to dryer climates. The Orange County Zoo purchase Koolfog outdoor misters to keep vulnerable species comfortable in the heat including habitats for Fox, Turkey Vulture, Porcupine, and Black Bear. Animals are playful creatures that love to interact their environment and mist and fog features can draw them out from their hiding places. Just like humans, animals can benefit from engagement of all their senses and the whirring sound of the misting pumps, the visual cues from its plumes, and the touch of cool mist can be soothing.
Beyond its role as a recreational attraction, the Orange County Zoo plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation efforts. By providing a safe haven for indigenous species, the zoo contributes to the preservation of local ecosystems and helps protect threatened and endangered animals from extinction. Through educational programs, guided tours, and interactive exhibits, visitors gain valuable insights into the significance of biodiversity and the importance of protecting natural habitats. This emphasis on conservation education fosters a sense of environmental responsibility among visitors, empowering them to make informed decisions and take action to safeguard the planet for future generations.
