Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society is a non-profit zoological organization located in West Palm Beach, Florida. The zoo’s mission is to provide an enjoyable and educational experience for visitors while also promoting the conservation and preservation of wildlife and their habitats. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society, covering its history, exhibits, conservation efforts, and more.
History of the Palm Beach Zoo
The Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society was originally known as the Dreher Park Zoo, and it opened in 1969. Over the years, the zoo has undergone many changes, including a name change to the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society in 2005. Today, the zoo is home to over 500 animals, representing more than 130 species. Browse next article!
Exhibits and Attractions
The Palm Beach Zoo features a wide variety of exhibits and attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Some of the zoo’s most popular exhibits include:
Florida Wetlands
This exhibit showcases some of the animals that can be found in Florida’s wetlands, including alligators, otters, and wading birds.
Tropics of the Americas
In this exhibit, visitors can see animals from the rainforests of South and Central America, including jaguars, monkeys, and sloths.
Asia
The Asia exhibit features animals from the forests and jungles of Asia, including tigers, clouded leopards, and Asian small-clawed otters.
Bear Necessities
Bear Necessities is home to two North American black bears, Barney and Honey, who were rescued as cubs and are now permanent residents at the zoo.
Conservation Efforts
The Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society is dedicated to conservation and preservation efforts both locally and globally. The zoo supports several conservation programs, including:
Florida Panther Conservation
The Florida panther is a critically endangered species, with only around 200 individuals remaining in the wild. The Palm Beach Zoo supports efforts to protect and conserve the Florida panther and its habitat.
Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Conservation Programs
The Palm Beach Zoo is an accredited member of the AZA, and it participates in several of the organization’s conservation programs, including the Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) program.
Palm Beach Zoo Conservation Society
The Palm Beach Zoo Conservation Society is a non-profit organization that was created to support the zoo’s conservation efforts. The society raises funds to support conservation projects both locally and globally.
Education and Outreach
The Palm Beach Zoo offers several educational programs and events for visitors of all ages. These programs include:
Zoo Camp
Zoo Camp is a summer camp program for children ages 5-12. The program includes hands-on animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, and more.
Wildlife Carousel
The zoo’s wildlife carousel features 27 hand-carved wooden animals, including a panther, lion, and elephant.
Safari Nights
Safari Nights is a nighttime event held at the zoo on select evenings throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy live music, animal encounters, and more.
Getting Involved
Visitors to the Palm Beach Zoo can get involved in several ways, including:
Donations
The Palm Beach Zoo accepts donations to support its conservation efforts and educational programs.
Membership
The zoo offers several membership options, which include free admission to the zoo for a year, as well as discounts on special events and programs.
Volunteer Opportunities
The zoo offers several volunteer opportunities, including animal care, education, and special events.
The Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife conservation and education. Check it out here!
The zoo’s dedication to conservation efforts both locally and globally is evident in its various programs and partnerships. Visitors can learn about the importance of conservation while enjoying a fun and educational day at the zoo.
Whether you’re interested in learning about local wildlife or exotic animals from around the world, the Palm Beach Zoo has something for everyone. With its diverse exhibits, educational programs, and conservation efforts, it’s no wonder that the zoo is a beloved attraction in the West Palm Beach area.
FAQs
- Can I bring food and drinks into the Palm Beach Zoo?
Yes, visitors are allowed to bring food and drinks into the zoo.
- Is the Palm Beach Zoo open year-round?
Yes, the Palm Beach Zoo is open year-round, with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
- Can I book a private event at the Palm Beach Zoo?
Yes, the zoo offers several venues for private events, including weddings, corporate events, and birthday parties.
- Are there any discounts available for admission to the Palm Beach Zoo?
Yes, the zoo offers discounts for seniors, military personnel, and groups of 15 or more.
- Can I interact with the animals at the Palm Beach Zoo?
Visitors are not allowed to touch or interact with the animals at the zoo, but there are several opportunities for animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours.