
“The zoo is a place where the most exotic and the most endangered creatures are brought together, and the worst punishment they can suffer is to be bored.”
David Attenborough, renowned Broadcaster and Naturalist
Profile Information:
- Address: 7370 Baker St, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (Map)
- Phone Number: (412) 665-3640
- Email Address: info@pittsburghzoo.org
- Hours of Operation: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM (closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas)
- Date Founded: 1898
- Accreditation: Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)
- Number of Animals: over 8,000
- Number of Species: over 600
- Park Size: 77 acres
- Website Link: https://www.pittsburghzoo.org/
Brief History:
The Pittsburgh Zoo has a rich history that dates back to 1898, when it was founded by the city’s Parks and Recreation Department. In the early days, the zoo was quite small, housing just a few animals such as a buffalo and a deer. However, over the years, it gradually grew in size and popularity, adding new exhibits and acquiring more animals.
One of the key events in the zoo’s history was the construction of the PPG Aquarium in 1967, which remains one of the zoo’s most popular attractions today. The aquarium is one of the largest inland aquariums in the United States, and it features over 400 species of marine life, including sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays.
Another major development in the zoo’s history was the renovation project that took place in the mid-2000s. The $42 million project involved the construction of several new exhibits and the renovation of existing ones, and it significantly expanded the zoo’s footprint and enhanced its overall visitor experience.
Throughout its history, the Pittsburgh Zoo has also played a key role in wildlife conservation and education. The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), a highly respected organization that sets strict standards for animal care and welfare. The zoo is also involved in various conservation and research initiatives aimed at protecting endangered species and their habitats.
Overall, the Pittsburgh Zoo has a long and fascinating history, and it continues to evolve and innovate to this day. Visitors can explore its rich legacy while enjoying its many attractions and exhibits, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the natural world.
Whether you’re a family with young children or animal enthusiasts of all ages, the Pittsburgh Zoo offers a unique and exciting experience. From its fascinating history to its wide range of animals and exhibits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss the chance to visit this amazing zoo and discover the wonders of the animal kingdom!
Quick Facts:
- The Pittsburgh Zoo is home to the only elephant herd in Pennsylvania.
- The zoo’s aquarium is one of the largest inland aquariums in the country.
- The zoo has a special exhibit featuring endangered species called the Islands.
- The zoo has a rare white alligator.
- The zoo offers a range of educational programs, including camps and classes.
- The zoo has a program called “Animal Tracks,” which brings animal education to schools.
- The zoo has a “Zoo Brew” event for adults where guests can enjoy beer and animal encounters.
- The zoo’s snow leopard exhibit features a breeding pair of snow leopards.
- The zoo’s polar bear exhibit includes a pool for the bears to swim in.
- The zoo’s sea lion exhibit has an underwater viewing area.
Fun Facts:
- The Pittsburgh Zoo is one of the few in the world that has both a successful elephant breeding program and a successful polar bear breeding program.
- The zoo has a special exhibit called “The Islands,” which features animals from Madagascar, the Philippines, and other island regions.
- The zoo’s snow leopard exhibit is modeled after a traditional Tibetan village.
- The zoo has an exhibit that features big cats such as lions, tigers, and leopards.
- The zoo’s sea otter exhibit includes a kelp forest habitat.
- The zoo’s “World of Reptiles” exhibit features over 100 different species of reptiles.
- The zoo has a “Zoo to You” program where animal ambassadors visit schools, libraries, and other venues.
- The zoo’s red panda exhibit features a breeding pair of red pandas.
- The zoo has a “Zoo Boo” event for Halloween where guests can trick-or-treat and see the animals.
- The zoo’s cheetah exhibit includes a cheetah run where guests can see the animals in action.
Fun Facts for Kids:
- The Pittsburgh Zoo has a special area just for kids called “Kids Kingdom,” which includes a petting zoo and a playground.
- The zoo has a program where kids can have a birthday party at the zoo and meet some of the animals up close.
- The zoo has a “Zoo Sleepover” program where kids can spend the night at the zoo and see what the animals do at night.
- The zoo has a “Penguin on Parade” program where guests can watch penguins taking a walk outside the Aquarium.
- The zoo’s tiger exhibit features a large pool for the tigers to swim in.
- The zoo has a “Sloth Encounter” program where guests can meet and interact with a sloth.
- The zoo’s kangaroo exhibit allows guests to get up close to the kangaroos and even feed them.
- The zoo has a “Zoo Camp” program where kids can learn about animals, conservation, and more.
- The zoo’s flamingo exhibit features a flock of over 30 flamingos.
- The zoo’s “Rainforest” exhibit features animals such as monkeys, sloths, and macaws.
- The zoo has a “Zoo Tots” program where young children can learn about animals through stories, crafts, and play.
Additional Resources:
Video: Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Part One
Video: Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Part Two