Central Park Zoo

A Sanctuary of Wildlife in the Heart of Manhattan

Nestled on a 6.5-acre plot at the southeast corner of Central Park, the Central Park Zoo offers an immersive escape into the natural world. As you enter from Fifth Avenue or through the park’s gates, you are greeted by a landscape where brick and granite buildings, draped in lush vines, house diverse species within specialized environments. This isn't just a collection of enclosures; it is part of an integrated system managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), dedicated to the restoration of endangered species and community engagement.

Explore the Distinct Zones

The zoo is organized into three primary zones connected by trellised, vine-clad, glass-roofed pergolas. Each area offers a unique atmosphere as you move through the grounds:

• Tropic Zone: Step into a two-story representation of a tropical rainforest. Here, you can observe toucans, red-and-green macaws, and ruffed lemurs among dense foliage. The zone also features various reptiles like emerald tree boas and pythons, as well as a diverse array of birds in large free-flight areas.
• Temperate Territory: Wander along landscaped paths surrounding a serene lake. This area provides a different backdrop for observing red pandas, white-naped cranes, and snow leopards.
• Penguins and Sea Birds: Located in a multilevel structure, this section features a chilled penguin house housing various species including king penguins and Atlantic puffins, alongside an outdoor pool where you can see harbor seals.

History and Artistry

The grounds are steeped in history, evolving from a 19th-century menagerie into the modern facility you see today. You can trace this heritage through preserved architectural details:

• Historic Architecture: Several structures still feature original animal-themed limestone friezes sculpted by Frederick Roth.
• Statuary: Keep an eye out for "Tigress and Cubs," a significant piece of the park's history, and the bronze statues "Dancing Goat" and "Dancing Bear" which flank the southern entrance.
• The Arsenal: Located just outside the zoo's main gates, this 1851 structure serves as a reminder of the site’s long history in the city.

The Children’s Zoo

Located to the north of the main zoo, the Tisch Children's Zoo offers a specialized experience for younger explorers. This area includes a petting zoo where you can encounter mini nubian goats, sheep, pigs, alpacas, and even the only cow in Manhattan. The transition between these areas is marked by the striking Lehman Gates, which were donated in 1960 as a gift to the city.

Conservation in Action

Beyond the sights, your visit supports active conservation. The zoo participates in the Species Survival Plan, coordinating breeding programs for endangered species like red pandas and thick-billed parrots. It has also achieved notable milestones, such as being a leader in hatching critically endangered scaly-sided mergansers.