BUFFALO ZOO

Description:

MENAGERIE TO HABITAT - The Buffalo Zoo, like other modern zoos, has become an educational facility that focuses on conservation and reproduction of endangered species. The Zoo has reintroduced some endangered animals to their native habitats. Today’s institution represents a
big change from early times when zoos were collections of unusual animals often kept in poor conditions.

1875 ELAM R. JEWETT - Owned the land at the corner of Jewett and Parkside Avenues that became the Buffalo Zoo. The Buffalo Zoo was started when two deer were donated to the city and Mr. Jewett agreed to house them on his spacious grounds. Soon they were joined by a flock of sheep, put there to keep the meadow mowed, and bison, elk, and a cow.

1930s - The Works Progress Administration renovated the Zoo, building many of the natural stone structures that brought the Zoo the designation of National Historic Landmark.

FRANCIS CRANDALL - Curator for 36 years, Crandall brought Big Frank, the elephant, to the Zoo and built the Elephant House that still stands today.

2002 - The Buffalo Zoo developed an exciting master plan to completely transform the Zoo with major new exhibits and visitor facilities. The core experience of the new zoo will be a series of realistic, immersive animal enclosures that take visitors on a journey around the world.

WORLD OF WATER - The major organizing theme of the new zoo is “water.” This theme was chosen because of water’s historic importance to the City of Buffalo. The new exhibits enhance appreciation for animals, their environments, and their behaviors. Visitors will learn that all living plants, animals, and human cultures share the same world of water.

AN OLMSTED PARK - The Zoo is located in Delaware Park, a park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. For more on Olmsted, look for other Seaway Trail panels in this park.

Location:

The Buffalo Zoo
300 Parkside Ave
Buffalo, NY 14214
Phone: (716) 837-3900
Website:  www.buffalozoo.org