An Overview of Central Park Zoo’s Main Attractions (1/4)

The Tropic Zone: A Lush Rainforest Habitat

One of the most immersive sections of the zoo, the Tropic Zone replicates a dense, vibrant rainforest environment filled with exotic plants and animals. As you enter, you’re greeted by warm, humid air that mimics the tropics. This indoor habitat is home to several species from rainforests around the world, including colorful birds, lemurs, tamarins, and reptiles.

• Key Highlights:
  • The sight of vibrant tropical birds flying freely within the enclosed space.
  • Rare species like the white-faced saki monkey and fascinating reptiles such as poison dart frogs.
  • Educational placards detailing each animal’s natural habitat, behaviors, and conservation status.

For families and nature lovers, the Tropic Zone is a captivating place to spend time, taking in the lush greenery and spotting animals in their simulated natural environment.

2. The Penguin House: A Peek into Polar Life

The Penguin House offers visitors a glimpse into the chilly world of these charming aquatic birds. Inside, you’ll find several penguin species, including the gentoos, chinstraps, and king penguins, swimming and waddling with ease. The temperature-controlled exhibit replicates a polar environment, allowing the penguins to live comfortably in a habitat that resembles their natural one.

• What to Expect:
  • Playful interactions as the penguins dive and splash around in their pool.
  • Insightful information on the challenges these birds face due to climate change.
  • Regular feeding sessions where visitors can see how zookeepers care for the penguins.

The Penguin House is particularly popular with children, who often love watching the penguins’ antics.

3. Sea Lion Pool: The Zoo’s Most Popular Residents

The Sea Lion Pool is an open-air exhibit that has long been a centerpiece of the Central Park Zoo. Here, Californian sea lions frolic and dive, sometimes stopping to interact with the crowd. Zookeepers host training sessions several times a day, where sea lions showcase their intelligence and agility by performing tricks and responding to commands.

• Visitor Tips:
  • Arrive early for the scheduled training sessions to secure a good spot.
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from zookeepers about sea lion behavior and conservation efforts.

4. Grizzly Bear Enclosure: Up-Close with Large Mammals

A visit to the Central Park Zoo wouldn’t be complete without stopping by the Grizzly Bear Enclosure. This habitat, designed to reflect a rugged wilderness, is home to two rescued grizzly bears. The spacious enclosure allows them to roam, climb, and even play in a large pool.

• Highlights:
  • Observing these magnificent creatures up close and learning about their natural behaviors.
  • Understanding the story of these bears’ rescue and how they came to live at the zoo.
  • Grizzly bears are endangered in many parts of the world, and this exhibit raises awareness of the importance of protecting large mammals.