Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is pleased to welcome the return of the monthly live animal visits by the Philadelphia Zoo. Prior to the pandemic, the Zoo brought different animals to PHL to educate and entertain passengers each month. Guests are surprised to encounter zoo animals in the middle of an airport. Rushing passengers often stop and do a double take to see what’s going on with the live display- especially if they are traveling with children.

The presence of the zoo is a fun distraction from the hustle and bustle that sometimes comes with travel. It prompts passengers to slow down and notice the amenities that PHL has to offer. Since the stage is situated in close proximity to many of PHL Food & Shops merchants and, restaurants and airport art exhibits, guests will often notice other cool things happening in the terminals (besides the airplanes).

Dani Hogan from the Philadelphia Zoo said, “We are so excited to be back - we have a long list of animals that we want to bring here, everything from rabbits, hedgehogs, a porcupine, snakes, turtles, insects.”

For the first appearance since 2020, America’s First Zoo brought an Asian Forest Scorpion named Gir, and a Vinegarroon named Vinny. Vinny the scorpion is indigenous to the Southwestern United States. They also brought a very active turtle who moved to quickly to share her name. She was last seen on one of the moving walkways, headed towards a flight to a warmer climate.

PHL’s Interim CEO Keith Brune was on hand to welcome the return of the Zoo to PHL jokingly saying, “It’s like a zoo in here” as he peered into the glass vessels that contained the tiny visitors.

The Zoo’s exhibit will be located near the food court in Terminal B/C Connector once a month on the following dates. Look for the stage area and the excited crowd.

Tuesday, 11/22 @ 1-3 p.m.



Thursday, 12/22 @ 1-3 p.m.



Thursday, 1/19 @1-3 p.m.



Thursday, 2/16 @1-3 p.m.



Thursday, 3/16 @1-3 p.m.



Thursday, 4/6 @1-3 p.m.



Thursday, 5/11 @1-3 p.m.