Beardsley Zoo - Are We There Yet?

While the majority of the Zoo's exhibits highlight the rare and wonderful animals of North and South America, visitors will find a wide variety of animals and habitats from around the world to enjoy.

As a participant in the Species Survival Plan, the Beardsley Zoo is dedicated to wildlife education, conservation, and research. Current Survival Plan animals include the Siberian tiger, red wolf, and golden lion tamarind. A naturalistic South American Rainforest exhibit is one more example of Beardsley's conservation message.

Housed in the naturalistic New World Tropics Building, the Rainforest features lush foliage, rushing waterfalls and all the sights and smells of this exotic
rainforest environment, including of course, the animals that live there.

Some of the other featured habitats and exhibits include:

A New England Farm Yard, where kids get to feed the goats, pet the bunnies and visit various farmyard exhibits inhabited by cows, chickens and other favorites. Some of them can be fed (with approved Zoo food, of course). Here the Farmyard Stage frequently hosts live animal demonstrations and, in season, youngsters can enjoy pony rides.

The Wetlands, where playful river otters, alligators, cranes, herons, turtles, red fox and other water-living creatures live in an environment that replicates their own. Here a small man-made pond gives visitors an idea of how they can adapt their own backyard for wildlife.

The Hoofstock Trail introduces visitors to herd animals such as llamas, bison, whitetail deer and pronghorn antelope, among others in grassland habitats. Beautiful wildflower areas, a variety of songbirds, and colorful butterflies help make the Hoofstock Trail a favorite.

The Predator Walk presents the many different adaptations and strategies of various predator species. From the stealthy tiger to packs of wolves, these hunters are always a thrill to see up close. Bald eagles, spectacled bears and Canada lynx can also be seen here.

There are areas strictly for people at the Beardsley Zoo as well, including a Museum and a restored Carousel housed in a Victorian-style building. The carousel's restored wooden horses are the magnificent work of artists Charles Carmel and Marcus Illions, originally made for the historic Pleasure Beach Carousel. Rides are only $1.00 each.

Throughout the year the Zoo holds many special family events and offers a variety of public education programs, rounding out a great wildlife experience for people of all ages.

Birthdays!
Great parties for children ages 3 - 9 can be booked between April 1st and November 15th. Centering around a special Zoo attraction, the $90.00 package includes admission for 10 children and 5 adults, 20 carousel passes, a Wild Party planner, tee-shirt for the birthday child, souvenirs and other exciting items.

Groups (10 to 25 persons) are welcome at the Zoo as well as families and can enjoy Self-Guided Tours with the aid of a special Tour Book. School Groups (grades 1 through 4) can participate in a 20-minute Zoo Orientation focusing on the Zoo in general or a special area, such as the Tropical Rainforest. The Orientation costs $40 per group of up to 40 students, separate from the admission fee.

The Zoo is also the perfect place for corporate parties, fund-raising dinners and other adult affairs, with seating for up to 480 people. Call for complete details.

One great feature of the Zoo not open to the general public is the Exotic Animal Care Center, opened in the spring of 1997. Dedicated to the needs of the Zoo's own inhabitants, the Center features a veterinary facilities and offers a unique opportunity for veterinary interns to gain valuable hands-on experience.

In all, the Beardsley Zoo is an invaluable asset for wildlife and humans alike.

Hours: Year-round, Daily, 9am - 4pm. New World Tropics Building 10:30am - 3:30pm. Carousel is open weekdays, 10am - 3pm. Carousel may be closed during colder months. Visit the official website linked above to confirm or for additional information. Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years.
Admission: Adults $14.00 Seniors (62+) $10.00 Children (3-11) $10.00 Children under 3 FREE Admission may be discounted during winter months. Call for details..
Groups: (of 10 or more registered at least 3 and paid 2 weeks in advance): Per person: $8.00
Group Reservations: At least 3 weeks in advance.
Lunch: Local restaurants. Picnic area and snack shop.
Handicapped Access: Accessible.
Directions: From I-95 take Exit 27A to Rts. 8 and 25. Proceed to Exit 5 (Boston Avenue). At the light at end of ramp turn left. Go to 4th light and turn left onto Noble Avenue. Proceed to the Beardsley Park entrance on left. Follow signs to the Zoo entrance.