Utah's Hogle Zoo
Elephant Encounter
After a comprehensive evaluation, Utah’s Hogle Zoo has made the difficult decision to move Mom, Christie, 37, and daughter, Zuri, 14, to another Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited zoo where opportunities for them to grow their family may increase.
Elephant Encounter brings a part of the Serengeti to Salt Lake City in the re-creation of an African plain featuring the white rhinoceros.
Experience the Serengeti of Salt Lake City at our Elephant Encounter exhibit. Watch our white rhinoceroses flourish on an expansive re-creation of the African plains.
The Elephant Encounter provides a stimulating environment for our rhinos by providing them with a range of activities and habitats. The diverse environment promotes natural behaviors, giving the animals the physical and mental stimulation they need to stay healthy and happy.
Animals Housed in the Elephant Encounter Exhibit
Within the Elephant Encounter Exhibit:
The Kopje
Guests can get a nose-to-nose view of the rhinos at the Kopje. The Kopje (co-pea) is a part of our West Habitat and is made to resemble the small hills that rise from the African veld. It features a watering hole and a feeding area to attract the animals for a better view. At the Kopje, you’ll be able to observe the animals up close through safety windows that are two inches thick.
At the edge of our West Habitat, there is a smaller lodge that gives guests another vantage point to see the animals. There you’ll find educational activities like our interactive scale. The scale encourages guests to pile on together to find out if they collectively weigh as much as a a newborn rhino or week’s worth of food.
Iconic Photo Opportunity
Capture a memorable moment with your family by snagging a photo next to our elephant sculpture that’s 13 feet tall. This work of art looks like a soapstone carving of an elephant and can be found at the entrance of the Elephant Encounter.