SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Children who are unable to visit the zoo due to illnesses are now getting a front row seat to wildlife from their hospital rooms, thanks to a growing global program led by the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.

The organization announced last week that its Wildlife Explorers Channel has expanded to more than 400 hospitals and medical facilities worldwide reaching an estimated 25 million viewers each year — including young patients in countries such as Kenya, Australia, Qatar and across the United States.

What began just over a decade ago as a local initiative at Rady Children’s Hospital and Ronald McDonald House of San Diego has grown into an international platform now spanning 48 states and 12 countries.

Hospital officials say the channel has made a meaningful difference for patients, particularly those with weakened immune systems who cannot safely visit public places like the zoos.

“The Wildlife Explorers Channel has had a huge impact on our patients,” said Margaret Fitzgerald, manager of the Hematology/Oncology Unit at Rady Children’s Hospital.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park names four cheetah cubs born earlier this year

Originally created for children’s hospitals, the program has expanded to include senior centers, clinics and Ronald McDonald Houses around the world, offering educational wildlife programming designed to reduce stress and create a sense of normalcy during hospitals stays, the organization explained.

Leaders with Ronald McDonald House Charities of San Diego say the channel has also been a welcome addition for families.

“It’s a great experience for families when they need it most, and it uplifts everybody here at the House,” said President and CEO Chuck Day.

In addition to its expansion, the Wildlife Alliance has also worked to reach communities in crisis. In 2023, the organization delivered tablets preloaded with its content to a children’s hospital and school in Ukraine, helping extend access to educational programming in challenging conditions.

Officials say the continued growth of the Wildlife Explorers Channel reflects its mission to connect people with wildlife — no matter where they are.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.