How do you manage zoo?

I am pretty much concerned about the equipment to be used when you visit a zoo. Zoo means not a closed one but one which has plenty of open area for the animals to wander about. Recently I came across this situation: I had my A55 with its kit lens (18-55) and 75-300 and we had a group of 5 people. So first I started with kit lens then I had to change to tele zoom as I had to get the birds and animals up close. Then I had great difficulty in including everybody in the portrait with the short end of the telephoto. So what is your lens suggestion for such situations? Should I carry two camera bodies? I am not a pro for investing in 2 bodies. I don't like long zooms like 18-270. How do you handle such situations? Your replies are most welcome.