Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is enhancing its wildlife collection with several new animal species as the theme park prepares for the upcoming launch of its Wild Oasis at Jungala attraction later this spring.
The park has welcomed a giant anteater, capybaras, squirrel monkeys, and tropical birds from facilities approved by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums across the country. These animals will reside in the new Habitat Hideaway area within Wild Oasis at Jungala after completing mandatory quarantine and health examinations at Busch Gardens’ state-of-the-art Animal Care Center.
“We’re beyond thrilled to welcome these incredible species to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay — some for the very first time!” said Kayla Wendzel, Zoological Curator of Wild Oasis. “Their arrival marks an exciting milestone toward opening day, when guests can connect with these fascinating animals in a lush, immersive environment.”
The new Wild Oasis will feature multiple attractions designed for families, including Tree Top Drop, a 35-foot drop tower surrounded by jungle scenes displayed on screens. Riders must be at least 38 inches tall when accompanied by an adult or 42 inches tall to ride independently.
Additional attractions include Enchanted Falls, an interactive splash pad and play area with fountains and spray towers; Canopy Climb, featuring four levels of climbing structures with 200 feet of horizontal climbing trails and vertical climbs reaching up to 45 feet high; and Rainforest Quest, described as a “self-guided educational scavenger hunt” focusing on rainforest species.
While Busch Gardens announced last September that Wild Oasis would open this spring, the park has not yet revealed the exact opening date. Annual Pass Members will have exclusive first access to explore the new area before it opens to the general public.
The Wild Oasis represents a significant enhancement to Busch Gardens’ animal collection, which already includes over 200 species, while providing new entertainment options for families visiting the Tampa theme park this year.