Maryland Zoo in Baltimore
Baltimore, MD
This AZA-award winning exhibit gives the African Penguins 24-hour habitat access with a feature-rich, 175,000 gallon, 360° loop pool and nesting rooms, while visitors enjoy ambassadors shows, VIP encounters, and rare 360° public viewing.
Design Framework Characteristics
Project Type
Modeled upon the theme of an abandoned guano mining settlement near the Namibian Skeleton Coast, Penguin Coast houses a large collection of African Penguins along with White-Breasted Cormorants. The design of the overall exhibit provides a rare viewing experience that incorporates various habitat and landscape conditions, designated feeding demonstration areas, and a small amphitheater for educational presentations by the education staff. Underwater and above water viewing is supplemented with dynamic water features such as wave crash and tidal action as well as strong channel currents that allow for natural penguin activity and an exciting guest experience. Additional fee based animal-visitor “beak-to-cheek” interaction is available through special Penguin Encounter tours which provide guided keeper experiences and special photo opportunities.
Project Characteristics
- AZA Top Honors Exhibit Award
- 175,000 Gal Habitat Pool
- 24 Hour Habitat Access
- Tide Pool, Dump Tank & Blow Hole
- Wave Currents & Swim Channels
- Natural Habitats and Substrates
- Swim Channel Underwater Viewing
- 360 Degree Loop Pool
- Nesting Rooms
- Ambassador Penguin Encounters
Legacy & Expertise Notes
Industry Insider
VIP encounters
Technical Expertise
Enhanced water features