The Bronx Zoo has been around since 1899 and up to this day it is still one of the world’s premier man-made animal habitats.
When it had just opened, the zoo exhibited 843 animals. Today, the Wildlife Conservation Society running the Bronx Zoo houses over 4,500 on 265 acres of land. Most of these animals live comfortably in outdoor settings that are carefully re-created habitats.
The Bronx Zoo inhabitants represent over 600 species, including some very exotic ones. Here you can find a False Gharial (a kind of crocodile) to African wild dogs and Asian Small-Clawed Otters along with Herbie the harbor seal.
The Congo Gorilla forest habitat is one of the newest, most remarkable displays. Similar to the other famous San Diego Zoo, the caretakers have provided the primates with a setting almost indistinguishable from their real life habitat.
There’s a small additional charge (currently $3) to enter. But it is a small price to pay for the chance to experience 6.5 acre re-creation of an African mountain rain forest - complete with treetop lookouts, lush greenery, and hundreds of animals. There are black and white Colobus monkeys, red-river hogs, and two troops of lowland gorillas.
The shady forest dotted with bamboo thickets and sunny meadows houses 400 plant species in addition to the many animals. The exhibit trail is nearly 1/3 mile long and home to the first gorilla born in New York City.
The Jungle World is another interesting visit. This indoor rain forest has been exquisitely re-created with rare botanical species. Here you can encounter Asian gibbons (similar to monkeys), hornbills, tapirs (a small pig-like species dating back millions of years) living amidst unique trees and plants.
One section of the zoo contains dry riverbeds. The Baboon Reserve features a simulated archaeological dig. Visitors can learn about how scientists investigate the history of mammals and find out about the evolution of Gelada baboons.
A realistic-looking field station provides a view of the baboons as well as a Nubian ibex (a kind of wild mountain goat) on an African-style ‘mountain range’.
Nearby is the Journey to the Himalayas exhibit where the unusual red panda, the reclusive snow leopard, and other rare species of this distant land can be seen.
One of the newest sections is Tiger Mountain. The exhibit houses several tigers who can be found playing in the cooler weather or sleeping in when it’s hot.
The old, original buildings still stand and add something of interest for any architecture enthusiast. You will see these historic structures near the Astor Court section of the zoo. The Astors were one of the richest families in New York during the 19th century and were large contributors to The Bronx Zoo.
Open year-round, the zoo contains many of the world’s endangered species in the parklands. In addition to the animals and habitats, there are many video displays, plaques, and - of course - a store with some good educational books, toys and keepsakes.
Access is easy via an express bus from Manhattan, or via the subway.
The Bronx Zoo is just one of the many attractions and destinations in New York, now here are other interesting things to do:
Enjoy a superb four-course dinner while you cruise the Hudson River and see Manhattan by night! Every table offers spectacular views of New York’s breathtaking skyline, and dinner is served at your own private table.
Explore New York’s most exciting scenic locations with your own personal tour guide and photographer! This private walking tour is a wonderful way to discover the city’s best restaurants and favorite jaunts, while taking in the charm and culture of the Manhattan.
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