3 Palms Zoo: A Rescue Sanctuary

3 Palms Zoo & Education Center, located in Townsend, Delaware, offers a unique and immersive animal experience for all ages. Unlike a typical zoo, 3 Palms is dedicated to rescuing and providing a sanctuary for animals in need. Many of its residents are former pets that were surrendered, forgotten, or even illegally owned. Others are non-releasable wild animals transferred from state-licensed rehabilitators. The zoo features a diverse collection of animals, including domestic farm animals like llamas, goats, cows, ducks, sheep, mini pigs, rabbits, emus, and giant tortoises, all available for hand-feeding and petting. Visitors can also see a variety of wildlife, such as silver foxes, skunks, coyotes, raccoons, and Delaware's only alligator exhibit. The zoo also has a quarter-acre pond that houses various waterfowl, including geese, ducks, and the zoo's popular brown pelicans, Pete and Repeat. Keep an eye out for turtles basking in the sun near the pond's edge. Interactive animal encounters are a highlight, with opportunities to feed and interact with many of the residents. The zoo's mission is to educate the public about animal welfare and responsible pet ownership while providing a safe and loving home for its rescued animals.