Star Eco Station

The Star Eco Station in Culver City is a great local zoo alternative where they care for rescued animals and have daily tours on the half hour on the weekends. They have fish, snakes, lizards, big cats and a fantastic bird room with some very loud and colorful birds that will compete for your attention.

It is a wonderful place to bring kids as the tour guides will speak directly to the kids and teach at their level. Kids will get to touch snakes, lizards and learn all about the importance of pickig up trash, not wasting water and keeping our environment healthy.

All of the animals at the Star Eco Station are rescued. They don't buy animals to "show" so this is most certainly not your average zoo, some call it a teaching zoo. Many of their animal residents were illegal pets and eventually wound up there. You'll learn a bit about the illegal pet trade and where each of their animals come from. Some of them (like the big cats) have really fascinating stories...but I won't spoil it for you.

The tour is a little less than an hour long and little ones in strollers are free. It is completely indoors, so great for days when the weather isn't cooperating. The bird room is usually a favorite (although not if your child is fearful of loud noises...we've seen a few kids get overwhelmed in there) as the birds are very gregarious and will do flips and talk to you go get your attention!

They do adopt out some of their smaller (and legal as pets obviously) animals, such as turtles and lizards so do check with them first if you are ever in the market for a pet.

They have a large room that can be rented for birthday parties or other events! Perfect for your reptile enthusiast or otherwise eco-concious little one. They also have a small gift shop you can browse while you are waiting for the tour to start and they have some very nice books, puzzles and a few eco-friendly toys. There is a waiting room area that you can hang out in before your tour so you don't have to be standing around outside in the heat.

They are a non-profit and are hoping to move into a larger space...so please support this wonderful, local organization!

Please note: they are open to the public year-round on Saturdays & Sundays from 10am to 4pm and also on Fridays from 1-5pm. During the week they have group tours by reservation only. Check their tours page for detailed info.