Build a Zoo Update 26 Guide (October 2025) Events & Codes

Welcome to the most comprehensive Build a Zoo Update 26 guide available! I’ve gathered all the latest information about the newest update, including the exciting limited-time event, active redemption codes, and essential tips to help you make the most of these fresh features. Whether you’re a seasoned zoo manager or just starting your journey, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Update 26, released in October 2025.

Build a Zoo Update 26: At a Glance

Feature	Description	Release Date
New Event	Safari Adventure Limited-Time Event	October 1, 2025
New Animals	5 Exotic African Species Added	October 1, 2025
Gameplay Changes	Improved Breeding Mechanics	October 1, 2025
UI Updates	Enhanced Zoo Management Interface	October 1, 2025
Special Codes	5 New Redemption Codes Available	October 1, 2025

What’s New in Update 26?

Update 26 brings a wealth of new content to Build a Zoo, headlined by the Safari Adventure event that introduces players to the wonders of African wildlife. The developers have listened to community feedback and implemented several quality-of-life improvements alongside the exciting new content.

The most significant changes include:

• A complete overhaul of the breeding system, making it more intuitive and rewarding
• Five new exotic animals from the African savanna
• A limited-time event with exclusive rewards
• UI improvements that make managing your zoo easier than ever
• New decoration options themed around the Safari Adventure

Safari Adventure: The New Limited-Time Event

The Safari Adventure event is the centerpiece of Update 26, running from October 1 to October 30, 2025. This event challenges players to complete a series of safari-themed tasks to earn exclusive rewards, including the rare White Lion animal, unique decorations, and valuable in-game currency.

Event Structure

The Safari Adventure event is divided into four weeks, each with its own set of challenges and rewards:

Week	Focus	Main Reward	Duration
Week 1	Animal Care	Safari Jeep Decoration	October 1-7
Week 2	Visitor Satisfaction	Giraffe Habitat Upgrade	October 8-14
Week 3	Breeding Excellence	Zebra Costume for Zookeeper	October 15-21
Week 4	Complete Collection	White Lion Animal	October 22-30

Event Tips and Strategies

To maximize your success in the Safari Adventure event, I’ve compiled these essential strategies:

1. Prioritize Event Tasks: Focus on event-specific tasks before regular gameplay objectives. Event tasks often reward you with event currency that’s crucial for unlocking the best rewards.
2. Optimize Your Layout: Reorganize your zoo to minimize walking distance for visitors. A well-organized zoo increases visitor satisfaction, which is a key metric in several event challenges.
3. Strategic Breeding: With the improved breeding mechanics in Update 26, focus on breeding animals that will help you complete event challenges. The new breeding interface makes it easier to predict traits and outcomes.
4. Save Premium Currency: Avoid spending gems on regular purchases during the event. Save them for event-specific offers that provide better value and help you progress faster.
5. Daily Check-ins: Make sure to log in daily to claim your event login bonuses. These cumulative rewards become more substantial as the event progresses.

Active Codes for October 2025

Redemption codes are a fantastic way to boost your progress in Build a Zoo. Here are all the active codes for Update 26:

Active Codes

Code	Rewards	Status
SAFARI26	500 Gems, 10 Safari Tickets	Active
WILDZOO	300 Gems, 5 Rare Animal Food	Active
AFRICA26	200 Coins, 3 Breeding Tokens	Active
ZOOKEEPER	100 Gems, 2 Speed Boosts	Active
NEWANIMALS	400 Gems, Exclusive Safari Decoration	Active

Expired Codes

Code	Previous Rewards	Status
SUMMERZOO	300 Gems, Summer Decoration	Expired
JUNGLE25	250 Gems, 5 Jungle Tickets	Expired
BIRTHDAY25	500 Gems, Birthday Cake Decoration	Expired
WINTER25	200 Gems, Winter Decoration	Expired
SPRING25	300 Gems, Spring Decoration	Expired

How to Redeem Build a Zoo Codes?

Redeeming codes in Build a Zoo is straightforward. Follow these simple steps:

1. Tap on the Settings icon (gear symbol) in the top-right corner of your screen
2. Select the “Redeem Code” option from the menu
3. Enter the code exactly as it appears (codes are case-sensitive)
4. Tap “Confirm” to receive your rewards
5. Check your in-game mail if rewards don’t appear immediately

Pro Tip: Codes typically expire after 2-3 weeks, so make sure to redeem them as soon as possible. New codes are usually released on Fridays, so check back weekly for the latest additions!

New Animals in Update 26

Update 26 introduces five magnificent animals from the African savanna to your zoo. Each animal comes with unique behaviors and preferences that you’ll need to accommodate to keep them happy and healthy.

African Elephant

The African Elephant is the largest land animal in the game and requires a substantial habitat. These gentle giants are social creatures that thrive in groups of at least three.

Key Statistics:

• Habitat Size: Large (12×12 tiles minimum)
• Preferred Food: Fruits, Vegetables
• Social Needs: High (requires at least 3 elephants)
• Attraction Rating: 9/10
• Revenue Generation: $120/hour

Care Tips:

• Provide plenty of water features in their habitat
• Include mud wallows for natural behavior
• Add large rocks and trees for environmental enrichment

Masai Giraffe

The elegant Masai Giraffe brings grace to any zoo with its towering height and distinctive patterned coat. These animals are particularly popular with visitors and can significantly boost your zoo’s attendance.

Key Statistics:

• Habitat Size: Medium (8×8 tiles minimum)
• Preferred Food: Acacia Leaves, Fruits
• Social Needs: Medium (pairs or small groups)
• Attraction Rating: 10/10
• Revenue Generation: $100/hour

Care Tips:

• Ensure their habitat includes tall trees for natural feeding behavior
• Provide elevated platforms for better visitor viewing
• Maintain clean ground surfaces as giraffes are sensitive to foot problems

Plains Zebra

The striking black and white stripes of the Plains Zebra make them an instant favorite among zoo visitors. These social animals are relatively easy to care for but require specific habitat conditions.

Key Statistics:

• Habitat Size: Medium (8×8 tiles minimum)
• Preferred Food: Grass, Hay
• Social Needs: High (requires herds of 5+)
• Attraction Rating: 8/10
• Revenue Generation: $80/hour

Care Tips:

• Provide open grazing areas with plenty of grass
• Include shelters for protection from sun and rain
• Maintain stable herd dynamics by introducing new zebras gradually

African Lion

The majestic African Lion is the ultimate crowd-pleaser in any zoo. These powerful predators require specialized care and secure enclosures, but they’re worth the effort for their high attraction rating.

Key Statistics:

• Habitat Size: Large (10×10 tiles minimum)
• Preferred Food: Meat (large quantities)
• Social Needs: Medium (prides of 1 male, 2-3 females)
• Attraction Rating: 10/10
• Revenue Generation: $150/hour

Care Tips:

• Ensure maximum security with double barriers
• Provide elevated platforms for resting and surveying territory
• Include plenty of environmental enrichment to prevent boredom

Black Rhinoceros

The critically endangered Black Rhinoceros is not only a valuable addition to your zoo but also helps raise awareness about conservation efforts. These solitary animals have specific care requirements.

Key Statistics:

• Habitat Size: Large (10×10 tiles minimum)
• Preferred Food: Vegetation, Fruits
• Social Needs: Low (solitary, except for breeding pairs)
• Attraction Rating: 9/10
• Revenue Generation: $130/hour

Care Tips:

• Create mud wallows for natural cooling behavior
• Provide sturdy trees and rocks for rubbing
• Maintain quiet surroundings as rhinos have sensitive hearing

Improved Breeding Mechanics

One of the most significant changes in Update 26 is the complete overhaul of the breeding system. The developers have made breeding more intuitive, rewarding, and strategic, giving players more control over the genetic traits of their animals.

New Breeding Interface

The updated breeding interface now provides detailed information about parent animals and their potential offspring. Key features include:

1. Trait Preview: See which traits are likely to be passed to offspring
2. Success Rate Indicator: Understand your chances of breeding success
3. Genetic Diversity Meter: Track genetic diversity to prevent inbreeding
4. Breeding History: Keep track of previous breeding attempts and outcomes

Breeding Strategies

To make the most of the new breeding system, consider these strategies:

1. Trait Matching: Pair animals with complementary traits to create offspring with desirable characteristics
2. Genetic Diversity: Maintain a diverse gene pool by introducing new animals regularly
3. Breeding Cooldowns: Plan your breeding schedule around natural cooldown periods
4. Specialized Breeding Pens: Create dedicated breeding areas with optimal conditions for specific species

Breeding Rewards Update

Update 26 has also improved the rewards for successful breeding:

• Increased experience points for breeding rare animals
• Bonus rewards for achieving breeding milestones
• New breeding achievements with exclusive rewards
• Improved chances of producing animals with special traits

UI and Quality of Life Improvements

The developers have implemented several UI improvements and quality of life changes based on player feedback. These updates make managing your zoo more intuitive and enjoyable.

Enhanced Zoo Management Interface

The main management interface has been redesigned with the following improvements:

1. Resource Overview Panel: Quick access to all your resources at a glance
2. Task Prioritization System: Mark important tasks for easy tracking
3. Advanced Filtering Options: Sort animals and habitats by multiple criteria
4. One-Click Actions: Perform common tasks with a single tap

Visitor Flow Optimization

Understanding and managing visitor flow is now easier with:

1. Heat Map Visualization: See which areas of your zoo attract the most visitors
2. Path Analysis Tool: Identify bottlenecks and optimize visitor routes
3. Satisfaction Breakdown: Detailed information about what affects visitor satisfaction
4. Revenue Analytics: Track which attractions and animals generate the most income

Inventory Management

The inventory system has been completely overhauled with:

1. Categorization System: Items automatically sorted by type and function
2. Search Functionality: Quickly find specific items in your inventory
3. Batch Operations: Apply actions to multiple items simultaneously
4. Favorite Items: Mark frequently used items for quick access

Pro Tips for Update 26

To help you make the most of Update 26, I’ve compiled these advanced strategies:

Event Maximization

1. Complete Daily Challenges First: Event daily challenges reset every 24 hours and provide the most efficient path to event currency
2. Time Your Purchases: Save premium currency for the final week of the event when the most valuable rewards become available
3. Focus on Milestone Rewards: Event milestones often provide better value than individual task rewards

Animal Management

1. Habitat Synergy: Group compatible animals near each other to boost overall happiness and visitor satisfaction
2. Rotation System: Rotate animals between exhibits and backstage areas to maintain optimal health and happiness
3. Specialized Staff: Assign staff with specific skills to care for animals that match their expertise

Resource Optimization

1. Peak Hours Management: Adjust ticket prices and promotions based on visitor patterns to maximize revenue
2. Cross-Resource Planning: Plan expansions and upgrades when you have a surplus of all required resources
3. Long-Term Investment: Prioritize investments that provide ongoing benefits over one-time expenditures

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced players can fall into these common traps in Update 26:

1. Neglecting Animal Social Needs: With the updated social requirements, many players fail to provide adequate companionship for social animals
2. Overlooking Habitat Enrichment: Basic habitats no longer satisfy animals; enrichment items are now essential for happiness
3. Ignoring Visitor Flow: Poorly planned paths can lead to visitor congestion and reduced satisfaction
4. Misusing Event Currency: Spending event currency on minor rewards instead of saving for milestone prizes
5. Breeding Without Strategy: Random breeding without considering traits and genetic diversity leads to weaker animal populations

Platform-Specific Information

Update 26 includes some platform-specific features and optimizations:

Mobile Devices (iOS/Android)

• Improved touch controls for precise habitat placement
• Optimized battery usage with new power-saving mode
• Enhanced graphics options for better performance on older devices
• Cloud save improvements for more reliable cross-device synchronization

PC/Mac

• Native 4K support for high-resolution displays
• Keyboard shortcuts for advanced management tasks
• Multi-monitor support for expanded workspace
• Improved mod support with updated API

Console (PlayStation/Xbox/Nintendo Switch)

• Refined controller mapping for more intuitive navigation
• Split-screen co-op mode for shared zoo management
• Exclusive console-themed decorations available through special events
• Optimized performance for consistent frame rates

Frequently Asked Questions

How often does Build a Zoo release new updates?

Build a Zoo typically receives major updates every 6-8 weeks, with smaller patches and bug fixes released bi-weekly. Update 26 is part of the regular content cycle that keeps the game fresh and engaging.

How long will the Safari Adventure event last?

The Safari Adventure event runs for the entire month of October 2025, from the 1st to the 30th. Make sure to complete all event challenges before it ends to claim the exclusive White Lion reward.

Can I still get Update 26 content if I start playing after the event ends?

Yes, the core features of Update 26, including the new animals and breeding mechanics, are permanent additions to the game. However, time-limited event rewards like the White Lion and exclusive decorations will not be available after the event concludes.

Why aren’t my redemption codes working?

There are several reasons why codes might not work:

• The code has expired (check the active codes table above)
• You’ve already redeemed the code (most codes can only be used once per account)
• You’re entering the code incorrectly (codes are case-sensitive)
• There might be a server issue; try again later

How do I transfer my progress to a new device?

To transfer your progress:

1. Link your game to an account (Google Play, Game Center, or Facebook)
2. On your new device, install the game and select “Link Account”
3. Choose the same account you used on your previous device
4. Your progress will automatically sync to your new device

What’s the best strategy for breeding rare animals?

The best strategy for breeding rare animals includes:

• Maintaining high genetic diversity in your animal population
• Using the new trait preview system to select optimal parent pairs
• Providing optimal habitat conditions to increase breeding success rates
• Using breeding boost items strategically for critical breeding attempts

How can I maximize visitor satisfaction in Update 26?

To maximize visitor satisfaction:

• Create a logical zoo layout with clear paths
• Place popular animals and attractions throughout the zoo to distribute crowds
• Provide adequate facilities (restrooms, food stalls, seating areas)
• Keep habitats clean and animals well-cared-for
• Use the new heat map tool to identify and address problem areas

Conclusion

Update 26 represents one of the most substantial content updates for Build a Zoo this 2025, introducing a wealth of new features that enhance both the management and creative aspects of the game. The Safari Adventure event offers a perfect opportunity to dive back into the game, while the improved breeding mechanics and UI improvements make managing your zoo more intuitive and rewarding than ever.

Make sure to redeem the active codes before they expire, take full advantage of the limited-time event, and experiment with the new breeding mechanics to create the ultimate zoo collection. With the strategies and information in this guide, you’re well-equipped to make the most of everything Update 26 has to offer.

Don’t forget to bookmark this page and check back regularly for updates, as I’ll be adding new codes and strategies as they become available throughout October and beyond!

Looking for more Build a Zoo content? Check out our Beginner’s Guide to Build a Zoo, Advanced Breeding Strategies, and Zoo Layout Optimization Tips for even more ways to enhance your zoo management experience!