Zoos are packed with various animals, from the biggest to the smallest. But which creatures reign supreme when it comes to size? Let’s look at the 10 largest and smallest animals you can see at a zoo, from elephants to ants.
The Largest Animals in a Zoo
African Elephant – The African elephant is one of the most iconic animals in any zoo, standing up to 13 feet tall and weighing 7,000-14,000 lbs. They are brilliant animals known to display empathy toward humans and other animals.
Giraffes – are some of the tallest land mammals on Earth, growing up to 18 feet tall! They have long necks that help them reach high leaves on trees that many other animals cannot access – and their beautiful coloring makes them stand out amongst other zoo animals.
Polar Bear – These fluffy white bears are enormous! Adult polar bears can weigh anywhere from 800-1600 lbs and measure up to 8 ft tall when standing on their hind legs! They live in Arctic habitats but can be seen in zoos worldwide.
Hippopotamus – The hippo is another huge animal found in zoos worldwide. They can weigh up to 8 tons and grow up to 16 feet long, so they command attention when you walk by their exhibit!
Bengal Tiger – Tigers are some of the most powerful predators on Earth, so it should be no surprise that they make this list too! Male Bengal tigers can grow up to 11 feet long (nose to tail) and weigh 600 lbs or more!
The Smallest Animals in a Zoo
Pygmy Marmoset – This tiny primate is native to South America and measures only 4-6 inches long (not including its tail). The pygmy marmoset has been called one of the world’s most miniature monkeys because it weighs only 3 ounces as an adult! It is an incredible sight for anyone who visits its exhibit in a zoo setting.
Ants – may not be giant, but they make this list due to their sheer numbers alone! Thousands of species of ants live worldwide, ranging from 0.03-0.75 inches long depending on their species type (with some queens reaching even larger sizes). Pygmy Possum – This tiny marsupial is native to Australia and measures just 2-3 inches long (including its tail!). It’s also incredibly light—just 2 grams—so while it may not appear very big compared with other animals found at zoos, it still deserves recognition for being one of the tiniest living there today!
Bumblebee Bat – This cute little bat lives in Thailand and Myanmar, feeding mainly on insects like beetles or moths that fly into its cave during the daytime (it sleeps most nights). Measuring just 1 inch long without its wingspan included, this bat is tiny enough to fit inside your hand if you ever get lucky enough to spot one at your local zoo!
Hummingbird – Hummingbirds may not be among the tiniest birds in existence, but they certainly make our list thanks primarily due to their unique feature – they can flap their wings up to 80 times per second (yes – really!). That means these birds can hover midair while feeding on nectar from flowers or sipping water from bird baths in many zoos worldwide!
Zoos provide us with an opportunity for entertainment and education about our planet’s incredible wildlife — both big and small alike! Whether you’re looking for giant elephants or tiny hummingbirds, there’s something for everyone at your local zoo — so be sure not to visit them soon!
