Triangle Metro Zoo

Triangle Metro Zoo was a cherished wildlife park that offered close encounters with exotic animals. Spanning 40 acres in Wake Forest, North Carolina, it was a privately owned and operated facility known for its diverse collection of approximately 500 animals representing 85 species. The zoo provided a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with wildlife in a heavily forested setting, complete with natural habitats and a small stream running through the grounds.

Among the many species housed, the zoo was particularly noted for its large cats, including lions and a rescued Bengal tiger named Raja, who later found a new home at the Carolina Tiger Rescue after the zoo's closure. Mammals like Himalayan moon bears, red kangaroos, lemurs, and zebras were popular attractions, alongside a wide array of birds such as colorful macaws and towering ostriches. Reptiles, including leopard geckos and various snakes, also comprised part of the collection.

The Triangle Metro Zoo offered an immersive experience designed to educate and entertain. Its naturalistic pathways and animal enclosures aimed to provide an engaging environment for both the animals and the visiting public. Though its operational period was relatively brief, from 1998 to 2006, it left a lasting impression as a local hub for wildlife appreciation and family outings in the North Carolina Triangle area. Wondering what that bird or insect is? Find out on your visit using the Snappit nature app.