BUFFALO ZOO

(Click Image To Enlarge)

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.
 

Website:  buffalo-zoo-exit.asp