Ross Park Zoo facts for kids
| Date opened | 1875 |
|---|---|
| Location | Binghamton, New York, United States |
| Coordinates | 42°03′46″N 75°54′40″W / 42.062644°N 75.910978°W |
| No. of animals | 180+ |
| No. of species | 52 |
The Ross Park Zoo is a fun place to visit in Binghamton, New York, United States. It's one of the oldest zoos in the country, opening way back in 1875! For a while, it was known as the Binghamton Zoo at Ross Park. This zoo is open all year round, so you can visit any season.
Discovering the Zoo's Past
The land for the zoo, about 90 acres, was a gift from a wealthy businessman named Erastus Ross. He wanted to create a park that everyone in the community could enjoy. In the early days, electric trolleys made it simple for people to get to the park.
The park used to have many exciting things like roller coasters, swings, and even a miniature train. There was also a carousel and summer band concerts. Over time, as more people used automobiles, they traveled further for fun. After the two World Wars and the Great Depression, the park became less popular.
The zoo faced challenges, and its animal exhibits needed improvements. In 1966, a group of caring citizens formed the Southern Tier Zoological Society. They worked hard to make the zoo better.
Mr. Ross had hoped the zoo would always be free for visitors, and the carousel near the entrance still is! Today, the zoo has a small entrance fee to help with its upkeep.
The zoo lost its special "accreditation" in 2005 and again in 2014. This accreditation is like a quality stamp from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It means the zoo meets high standards for animal care and education. The zoo worked hard to get it back in 2009.
Animals and Fun Facilities
The Ross Park Zoo is home to many amazing animals! You can see red pandas, red wolves, and even a snow leopard. They also have lemurs, penguins, and Pallas’s cats. Look out for howler monkeys and binturongs, which are also called bearcats. The binturong is the mascot for the nearby Binghamton University! The zoo is set in a beautiful, tree-filled area.
Right outside the zoo's entrance, you'll find a pavilion. It has areas for barbecues, a small park, and restrooms. There's also an old lion's den that has been updated. It's now used for special educational programs where you can learn "behind bars"!
The zoo is also next door to the Discovery Center. This is a hands-on museum especially for children.
Exciting Zoo Events
The zoo hosts many fun events throughout the year. These special activities are a great way to experience the zoo in new ways! Some popular events include:
- Courtship Tails
- Eggstravaganza
- Zoo Brew & Wine Too!
- Ice Cream Safari
- Feast with the Beasts
- Howloween at the Zoo
- Boo at the Zoo
