San Francisco Zoo

The Zoo Overview

Previously called the Fleishhacker Zoo, San Francisco zoo is home to about 250 species.  When the zoo was established, it only had one bear which was named Monarch and has lived for more than 20 years. The zoo was founded by Mr. Herbert Fleishhacker.  It was established in the year 1929 and the official name of the zoo that we know now was adopted in the year 1941.  In the present day, the zoo evolved into a multi faceted place which includes a recreation area, a center for wildlife, a community organization, a park and a bird sanctuary.

Tiger attack in San Francisco Zoo

On the ill fated day, December 25, 2007, Tatiana, a 4 year old Siberian tiger severely injured two zoo visitors and fatally killed one a 17 year old visitor. The tiger was said to escape from her grotto. She was later shot to death by police officers.  This same tiger attacked his keeper during public feeding on December 2006.