Francis, a Great Horned Owl

Spanning acres of land covered in beautiful flowers, shrubs, trees and nature trails, this tropical jungle offers the perfect setting for leisurely strolls and magnificent picture taking. With something for everyone, it’s no wonder that it’s Sarasota’s favorite family attraction!

Celebrating over 60 years, it is the oldest attraction in the area and one of Florida’s first. David Breed Lindsay purchased the site in the early 1930s. He charted the streams, built the lakes you currently see and started planting thousands of exotic trees, shrubs and flowers—many of which still thrive today. In 1940, he opened the Gardens as a special place for local gardening enthusiasts and tourists. Current owner, Dorothy A. Tinney, is the daughter of Arthur C. Allyn who purchased the attraction in 1971. Dorothy explained how the park has changed since then. “In the early 1970s, my father introduced birds and animals into the Gardens. Today, over 80 percent of the birds and animals seen here were donated or rescued from adverse conditions. I am proud to carry on the family tradition, with a special emphasis on keeping the Gardens very family oriented.”
 

Sarasota Jungle Gardens is working to establish an active Greater American Flamingo breeding program. “The Greater American Flamingo is federally  protected  and  all  of  the flamingos you see here are of this species,” reveals Karen Gallagher, Director of Marketing. “The nest areas are on the small island in the middle of Mirror Lake. You can really get up close and personal with a Flamingo encounter here; it’s an experience you will find no where else. You will also be amazed at how many other wild birds frequent the area including pelicans, herons, egrets and swans.”
 

Dancer, a Red Tail Hawk

The “Birds of Prey” exhibition is one of five shows, each taking place twice daily. This show features Sarasota Jungle Garden’s avian predators: the Red Tail Hawk and the Great Horned Owl. “You will see how striking these birds are and get educated on how important they are to the environment,” says Karen. Immediately following this fascinating show is “Critters and Things,” featuring the fuzzy, furry, creepy, crawly and everything in between.

“Reptile Encounter” is educational as well as entertaining. Hear about the venomous snakes of Florida and the traits of American alligators. “We especially want people to understand what they should and should not do regarding alligators,” Karen says.

“Birds of the Rainforest” is pure entertainment for all to enjoy. These birds are stunning and smart—but do they make good pets? Learn this and more about these exotic animals—their habits and their habitats. “A star of the show is Frosty, a 68-year-old Cockatoo that performed on the Ed Sullivan Show,” says Karen. “He is still performing well.”

“Meet the Keeper” gives visitors the opportunity to meet the animal handlers at individual habitats throughout the Gardens. Each informative 5 – 10 minute talk provides facts on animal species, including how the animal came to Sarasota Jungle Gardens.

Be sure to check out the Kiddie Jungle. This is a great place for parents to bring children to play. Other highlights as you continue your excursion include exhibits with Aldabra Tortoises, Spider Monkeys, Ringtail Lemurs, a Butterfly  Garden, a  Tiki  Garden and other fascinating areas and exhibits. Visit the Flamingo Café and gift shop, and don’t forget to stop and get your picture taken with the lively parrots.
 

Bertha, an Aldabra Tortoise
 

But that’s not all!

Sarasota Jungle Gardens is home to spring and summer camps, home school groups, school safari field trips, adopt an animal, Junior Zoo Keepers and other educational programs.

So what are you waiting for?

Treat yourself and the entire family to a tropical adventure.

Don’t forget your camera!

Sarasota Jungle Gardens
is located at 3701 Bay Shore Road
Sarasota, Florida

The park is open daily
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information call
941-355-5305


Visit online at www.sarasotajunglegardens.com

Andy Jr., a Green Winged Macaw