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. It is one of the oldest zoos in the United States. The zoo first opened its doors in 1875. From 2005 to 2020, it was known as the Binghamton Zoo at Ross Park. This amazing zoo is open for visitors all year long!
Contents
History of Ross Park Zoo
How the Zoo Started
The land for the zoo, which is about 90 acres, was a gift from a rich businessman named Erastus Ross. He wanted a park where everyone in the community could have fun. In the early days, electric trolleys made it easy for people to get to the park.
The park had many exciting things to do. There were roller coasters, swings, and even a miniature train. A carousel was also a popular attraction. During the summer, people often enjoyed live band concerts.
Challenges and Changes
Over time, more people started using cars. This made it easier to travel outside the city for fun. Also, two World Wars and the Great Depression made things tough for the park. The park began to decline.
At one point, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) was concerned. They thought the animal exhibits were not good enough. In 1966, a group of caring citizens stepped in. They formed the Southern Tier Zoological Society. Their goal was to make the zoo better.
Mr. Ross had given money to run the zoo for many years. He wanted it to be free for everyone. The carousel near the entrance was also meant to be free. Today, the zoo has a small entrance fee. However, the carousel is still free to ride!
Zoo Accreditation
Zoos can get a special approval called "accreditation." This means they meet high standards for animal care and safety. In December 2005, the Ross Park Zoo lost its accreditation. This was due to problems with its leaders and money.
But the zoo worked hard to improve! They successfully got their accreditation back in 2009. Unfortunately, they lost it again in 2014. The zoo continues to work towards meeting these important standards.
Animals and Facilities at the Zoo
Meet the Animals
The Ross Park Zoo is home to many different animals. You can see amazing creatures like red pandas and red wolves. There's also a snow leopard and playful lemurs. The zoo has a special aviary for birds. You might also spot penguins, Pallas’s cats, and howler monkeys.
One interesting animal is the binturong. It's also called a bearcat. This animal is the mascot for Binghamton University, which is nearby. The zoo is set in a beautiful, green, and wooded area.
What Else Can You Find?
Outside the zoo's entrance, there's a pavilion. It has areas where you can barbecue. There's also a small park and clean restrooms. The old lions' den has been updated. It is now used for educational programs. Kids can even sit "behind bars" for a fun learning experience!
The zoo is also right next to the Discovery Center. This is a hands-on museum especially for children. It's a great place for more learning and fun.
Exciting Zoo Events
The Ross Park Zoo hosts many fun events throughout the year. These special activities are great for families. Some popular annual events include:
- Courtship Tails
- Eggstravaganza
- Zoo Brew & Wine Too!
- Ice Cream Safari
- Feast with the Beasts
- Howloween at the Zoo
- Boo at the Zoo
