Lions and tigers and…anteaters making out? Indeed, it looks like the Big Easy even manages to affect the animals at the amazing Audubon Zoo. The Audubon Nature Institute, in charge of the Zoo, the Aquarium and the Park, is a jewel in the cities beaded scepter. They have created a variety of experiences to engage youth and adults alike in the wonders of nature.

The Zoo is thoughtfully organized and a highlight is the Louisiana Swamp, giving visitors a chance to experience the bayou in ways that they might not otherwise be able
to. There is a full swamp, with rustic touches, like an empty bathtub and a rusted old jeep with a raccoon asleep on the hood. While perhaps slightly sensationalized versions of the real thing, the exhibit has a full lake lined with a rickety house with rocking chair on its porch. There are clocks branded by Ex-Lax, and flat-bottomed canoes called “Mr. Rat” that were once used to paddle the bayou.

Huge alligators sit next to river otters and nutria, while a colossal white American alligator floats menacingly in a tank all alone. The white gator is not albino, but is leucistic, which is a condition where animals (including humans) have a reduced level of all pigment types in their skin. The way the black eyes stare out from that white leather face sends shivers down your spine…

If you are an animal lover, but prefer to leave the children to someone else, then the best (read: devoid of kids) time to visit is weekday afternoons. Get that petting zoo all to yourself!