Located in Cape May County, New Jersey, the Cape May County Zoo, also known as the Cape May Zoo, is home to over 550 animals representing 250 different species. It is a prestigious establishment known for its tremendous conservation efforts, exceptional animal care, and education programs. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes the Cape May Zoo a must-visit attraction for nature enthusiasts.
History of Cape May Zoo
The Cape May Zoo started as a small collection of animals in the late 1970s. In 1978, several animals were donated from the Forbes family in New York, which sparked the creation of the Cape May Wildlife Park. The park was equipped with a veterinarian hospital, nursery, and primate compound. But it wasn’t until 1980 that the park became the Cape May County Zoological Society.
Over the years, the Cape May Zoo has become an AZA-accredited destination, largely thanks to its conservation efforts. It has scored numerous accolades, including being ranked as one of the best zoos in the world by TripAdvisor.
Exhibits at Cape May Zoo
The Cape May Zoo has a variety of exhibits that offer visitors a chance to see animals from all over the world. The zoo is divided into two main areas: the African Savanna and the South American Exhibits.
African Savanna
The African Savanna exhibit features animals such as giraffes, zebras, and lions, all living together in a natural environment. One of the most popular attractions is the African Savanna Train, giving visitors the opportunity to take a 20-minute ride around the open field taking in the sights of those majestic animals
South American Exhibits
The South American Exhibits at Cape May Zoo allow visitors to get up close and personal with animals like monkeys, jaguars, and sloths. You can also interact with the animals as they roam freely in the exhibit’s artificial rainforest.
Events and Education at Cape May Zoo
The Cape May Zoo is more than just a place to observe animals; they also host a wide variety of events, including fundraisers, educational programs, and field trips. The zoo offers programs for people of all ages, making it easy for visitors to learn about animal conservation, animal behavior, and wildlife.
The Cape May Zoo’s education center offers summer camps, scout groups, and animal encounters providing an immersive and interactive experience. Even better, education programs at the zoo are free of charge.
Conservation
Conservation is at the heart of the Cape May Zoo’s mission. The zoo’s staff is fully committed to educating the public about conservation efforts through exhibits, educational programs, as well as practicing sustainable conservationist techniques.
The Cape May County Zoological Society is also a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, as mentioned earlier. In partnership with other zoos, the Cape May Zoo participates in various conservation programs aimed at saving endangered species, including those that are indigenous to the region.
Conclusion
The Cape May Zoo is indeed a very unique destination. With over 29 acres of nature’s playground, the place provides not only a fantastic experience for visitors of all ages but also a valuable service to animals and the greater community through their conservation efforts. The zoo is open every day of the year except Christmas day, making it a great place to visit during all seasons. Whether you want to catch a glimpse of a rare animal, learn about conservation, or simply want to enjoy a day with family and friends, the Cape May Zoo is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.