Learning and Conservation at Every Turn
The Central Coast Zoo (formerly Charles Paddock Zoo) is home to about a hundred species of animals found around the world, where they live in our beautiful wooded Lake Park in Atascadero, California. We are the only zoo in the Central Coast accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the gold standard for zoos ensuring the highest level of animal welfare. As part of AZA, our animals are part of globally managed conservation programs to preserve species and their wild habitats. We hope you will come and relax, learn, and enjoy our animals in a safe and respectful environment, and have fun in our beautiful park with play equipment, lawns, walking pathways and a lake with paddleboats. We hope to see you soon!
Menderu was born at the San Diego Zoo in 2008 and came to live at the Central Coast Zoo (formerly Charles Paddock Zoo) in 2009 following a recommendation from AZA's Malayan Tiger SSP (Species Survival Plan).
Menderu is an active cat who enjoys exploring his habitat and playing with some of his favorite enrichment items, such as an extra-large "boomer ball".
No matter the size, your gift makes a difference! With your help the Central Coast Zoo will continue to flourish and provide the valuable cultural asset the Zoo is to our community.
Our precious animals need your support. This is your opportunity to friend one of our animals. Your donation is good for one year.
Volunteers are the heart of our Zoo and have always played dominant roles throughout its history. Volunteers for our education programs, events, or office support.