When Hearst built his castle, he wanted it to be a place where his guests would not just feel at home but would also be amazed. That's why he had Julia Morgan build a private zoo.
Elephants, antelope, zebras and so many more types of animals were on display on the ranch, many allowed to freely roam and graze on the hills of San Simeon. When the Hearst empire fell on hard times during the depression, Hearst downscaled the assortment, with his family donating most of the rest to zoos and preserves after his death. A herd of Zebras is still permitted to roam free, delighting tourists who stumble upon them.
