SAN DIEGO, Calif. -- North of downtown San Diego some of the world’s fiercest predators, timid prey, cuddly mammals and aquatic animals act as ambassadors to humanity and proudly represent their unique species.

The San Diego Zoo’s 100-acre facility houses more than 4,500 rare and endangered species and 700,000 plants. The zoo offers free admission for active-duty military members and discounted tickets for dependents with military I.D. Military admission includes the zoo’s guided bus tour and Skyfari aerial tram, a ski-lift view of the park.

“It’s the zoo’s gratitude for the service and work from our military members,” said Jenny Mehlow, a public relations representative for the zoo and its safari park.

People come from all over the world to observe the zoo’s expansive wildlife.

“The zoo is fantastic,” said Sindy Henderson, a native of Lubbock, Texas. “To be able to see these types of animals in their own environment is truly a once in a lifetime experience. “My favorite part was the gorillas; there are not a lot of places where you can see that type of animal in a safe environment.”

Nine zones divide the extensive facility, ranging from the polar rim, which features polar bears and reindeer, to the outback, which spotlights Australian natives like the koala and kangaroo.

The zoo is also one of four facilities in the United States that is home to the critically endangered giant panda.

“Our focus is connecting people with wildlife,” said Mehlow. “We consider ourselves an education facility, we try to teach about the challenges facing these animals and help people understand how these animals exist.”

With each man-made habitat, service members and civilians get an up-close and educating view of the animal ambassadors and the world they live in.