People and animals experience a total solar eclipse at the Dallas Zoo

More than 4,000 individuals gathered at the Dallas Zoo on Monday to witness the total solar eclipse, creating special memories and experiences during the celestial event.

The zoo offered a unique menu featuring eclipse-themed pizza and popcorn for guests, who took the opportunity to craft memorable moments during the eclipse. Russ Nickel from California shared one such moment, where his father drilled holes to create crescent-shaped shadows, forming the message “Russ hearts Morgie” for his girlfriend.

In addition to human reactions, visitors had the chance to observe the responses of animals during the total eclipse. As predicted by Dallas Zoo Zoological Manager Ann Knutson, the flamingos provided an entertaining spectacle by gathering in the water, behaving as if it were nighttime.

“The flamingos started getting crazy and started getting in the water because they thought it was time to sleep,” remarked visitor Mara Villeda from Arlington.

The moment of totality also sparked unusual behavior among various animals, with zebras and giraffes seen running around.

For those present to experience totality, it left an indelible mark. Claudia Mares from Mexico City described it as “marvelous,” emphasizing the power of nature. Villeda expressed her emotions, saying, “I started crying when everything went dark.”

Nickel shared his mystical experience, stating, “I felt like my lizard brain took over… like nothing I’ve ever experienced before.”

Tiffanni Story from Oklahoma deemed the event “incredible,” worth skipping work or school for its cosmic significance. Seventeen-year-old Dillon Stidwell from Oklahoma likened the experience to a video game event, expressing excitement and awe.

Overall, the total solar eclipse at the Dallas Zoo provided a profound and unforgettable experience for all who witnessed it.