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Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo

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OPEN DAILY FROM 9 A.M. TO 4 P.M. LAST TICKET SOLD AT 3 P.M.

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Conservation Efforts

Beardsley Zoo’s conservation initiatives reach local streams, national habitats, and global ecosystems. Through research, hands-on programs, and citizen science, we empower staff, volunteers, and visitors to make a measurable impact.

Support the Zoo

Your contributions—of time, resources, or expertise—help Beardsley Zoo protect wildlife, expand educational programs, and strengthen conservation efforts, ensuring a thriving future for animals and visitors alike.

Upcoming Events

African Spur-Thighed Tortoises on Habitat
JUL8

Multi-DayMay 22 – Sep 7

African Spur-Thighed Tortoises on Habitat

Date
May 22, 2026 at 9:00 AM – September 7, 2026 at 4:00 PM

Beginning May 22 and running through Labor Day weekend, guests can explore a special outdoor habitat located just in front of the greenhouse, featuring African spurred tortoises up close. This unique exhibit offers visitors a chance to observe these incredible reptiles in a thoughtfully designed environment that highlights their natural behaviors.

9:00 AM
JUL8

Multi-DayJul 5–18

Rainforest Reptile Show

Date
July 5, 2026 at 10:00 AM – July 18, 2026 at 3:00 PM

Prepare to be amazed! Back by popular demand, join us for the action and wonder of Rainforest Reptiles Shows for a special treat limited engagement at Beardsley Zoo. Meet rare and astounding creatures from around the globe! Discover their secrets and learn what you can do to protect them and their wild cousins in your own backyard. Shows will take place daily in the Red Barn Amphitheater, with interactive animal artifact stations available throughout the event. Schedule is as follows:

  • Monday–Wednesday: 1 show per day at 12:00 PM
  • Thursday–Friday: 2 shows per day at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM
  • Saturday–Sunday: 3 shows per day at 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 2:00 PM

10:00 AM
Zoo Tots: Tots and Talons!
JUL15

Zoo Tots: Tots and Talons!

Date
July 15, 2026 · 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Category
Zoo Tots

What animals have talons, and what purpose do these talons serve? Come to our Zoo Tots session to learn the answers to these questions while meeting one of our talon-ted animal ambassadors! 

​Zoo Tots is a 30 minute program for ages 22 months to 4 years, who are accompanied by an adult.  Activities may include stories, songs, puppet shows, crafts, and live animals.

Learn More

10:30 AM
Evening Lecture Series - Wolf Conservation: Saving a Species
JUL15

Evening Lecture Series - Wolf Conservation: Saving a Species

Date
July 15, 2026 · 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Category
Education

Led by Andrew Connolly, Outreach Coordinator at the Wolf Conservation Center. In the late 20th century, Mexican gray wolves and red wolves were declared to be extinct in the wild. Through intensive efforts, such as breeding programs and wild releases, these wolves have resumed their rightful places on the wild landscape. Join the Wolf Conservation Center to learn what it takes to help save a species from the brink of extinction, the applications of modern technology to reproduction efforts, and what is next in the fight for survival.​

Learn More

7:00 PM
World Snake Day
JUL16

World Snake Day

Date
July 16, 2026 · 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Category
Animal Awareness Days

Slither over and celebrate World Snake Day with a Kingsnake, Boa Constrictor and more.

9:00 AM
Teddy Bear Festival
JUL18

Teddy Bear Festival

Date
July 18, 2026 · 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Category
Fundraiser

Don’t miss the Teddy Bear Festival, a day of fun and games. Children are invited to bring their favorite plush toy to the Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital “Clinic” for a health checkup. The day is filled with healthy activities and education. Hugs to Teddy Bear Sponsor: CHET 529 College Savings Program.

10:00 AM

What You're Saying

"butterfly zoo nice"

Mohsin Food gallery

"Amazing! Lots of babies right now in the prairie dogs and hogs exhibits. And the baby spider monkeys are adorable."

Teri Haines

"fun for the whole family"

LULU

"My daughter had a great times especially loved the prairie dog exhibit! We spent 2 hours here it was hot🔥. But a great zoo for Connecticut."

Melissa Wyszynski

"Great Zoo! You can get very close to the animals and the variety of animals is pretty cool. Highly recommend!"

Nathan D