Shanghai Zoo's best winter viewing season is in full swing

As autumn gives way to early winter, Shanghai Zoo presents a stunning display of fall foliage, with golden ginkgo trees, fiery red maples, and rainbow-hued Chinese tallow trees creating a breathtaking landscape that offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

Shanghai Zoo's golden ginkgo trees. [Photo/WeChat ID: shchangning]

The ginkgo trees, located near the zoo's largest lawn, reach their peak in early December, turning a brilliant gold and attracting numerous visitors eager to capture the picturesque scene and enjoy the season's beauty.

Maple trees are also at their finest, with deep red leaves enhancing the beauty of the zoo's small ponds and streams. The graceful branches, with their gentle sway, evoke the elegance of traditional Chinese gardens, creating a serene atmosphere.

Cypress trees have emerged as one of the season's top attractions. Though fewer in number, their towering canopies, now tinged with orange and gold, create an enchanting scene, as if painted by an artist.

Chinese tallow trees have already reached peak color but still offer striking displays of red, orange, and purple. Their twisting branches form natural archways, particularly around Swan Lake and Lion and Tiger Hill, adding to the magical atmosphere.

Fruits in Shanghai Zoo. [Photo/WeChat ID: shchangning]

A tiger at Shanghai Zoo. [Photo/WeChat ID: shchangning]

In addition to their aesthetic value, the fallen leaves and fruits play a crucial role in the zoo's ecological enrichment program, supporting environmental balance and enhancing the animals' sensory experience.