The Los Angeles Zoo presents “World Elephant Day Weekend,” two days of opportunities to explore and learn about elephants and the challenges they face in the wild on Saturday, Aug. 13 and Sunday Aug. 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

(photo by Tad Motoyama)

World Elephant Day focuses on Asian and African elephants to bring attention to the urgent threat of their extinction. Activities highlight the zoo’s state-of-the-art “Elephants of Asia” exhibit and allows children to learn about its three elephant residents and how they are cared for. Visitors can tour the elephants’ barn from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Also included is a “medical clinic” inviting young guests to bring toy elephants for an “examination,” including a “certificate of health,” conservation craft and enrichment stations, photo ops and more. Activities are free with paid zoo admission.

Zoo guests can support the protection of elephants by posing for photographs at the Wildlife Conservation Society’s 96 Elephants  station, part of a worldwide effort to raise awareness and support for elephants. (#ElephantYogaChallenge) The 96 Elephants station is named for the number of elephants killed each day in Africa for their ivory.

The L.A. Zoo’s “Elephants of Asia” focuses on the connection between elephants and the cultures of Thailand, India, China and Cambodia. The exhibit, which opened in 2010, illustrates the challenges Asian elephants face in the wild, including shrinking natural habitat. It also provides an opportunity to directly contribute to conservation programs that support elephants in their native countries.

The Los Angeles Zoo is located at 5333 Zoo Drive in Griffith Park.