Dear Zoo Supporter,
In 1992, what was once known as the Bird and Mammal Building (or monkey house as some knew it by) reopened as the World Tropics Building, a South American rainforest exhibit, educating guests on one of the oldest and richest ecosystems. Over 30 years later, this year-round indoor exhibit is still a favorite amongst guests at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo.
Today, this exhibit is home to nearly 20 endangered and threatened species, such as the Golden Lion Tamarin, Two-Toed Sloths, and Howler Monkeys. These species all live within authentic environments that mimic those of a South American rainforest – from humid climates and water features to jungle plants and flowers maintained and grown by the Zoo’s horticulture staff. Due to years of visitation and wear, this building needs updates to keep pace with the evolving needs of our animals and guest experience.
Today, we need your help to continue captivating guests, offering a more immersive experience that fosters a deeper connection to wildlife and the role we all play. We are seeking $200,000 to refresh our vibrant ecosystem – upgrading animal habitats and enhancing animal care. Your generous contributions will go directly towards:
Over the years, our Rainforest has seen extraordinary milestones in conservation including the births of endangered ocelot kittens through artificial insemination, home to the oldest living female and male howler monkeys in the country, and the births of endangered golden lion tamarin monkeys.
Rainforests are beautiful places where plants and animals work together to maintain the delicate balance and beauty of their habitat. With your help, we can educate and inspire more guests to become stewards of wildlife as they take in the sights, sounds, and even smells of the rainforest.
This project demonstrates the Zoo’s continued commitment to improve and advance animal welfare practices as well as our guest’s experience. Thank you for believing in the beauty of wildlife and supporting our mission of connection amongst all living things. Together, we can make a difference.
Jim Wharton, PhD
CEO, Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo
In 1992, what was once known as the Bird and Mammal Building (or monkey house as some knew it by) reopened as the World Tropics Building, a South American rainforest exhibit, educating guests on one of the oldest and richest ecosystems. Over 30 years later, this year-round indoor exhibit is still a favorite amongst guests at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo.
Today, this exhibit is home to nearly 20 endangered and threatened species, such as the Golden Lion Tamarin, Two-Toed Sloths, and Howler Monkeys. These species all live within authentic environments that mimic those of a South American rainforest – from humid climates and water features to jungle plants and flowers maintained and grown by the Zoo’s horticulture staff. Due to years of visitation and wear, this building needs updates to keep pace with the evolving needs of our animals and guest experience.
Today, we need your help to continue captivating guests, offering a more immersive experience that fosters a deeper connection to wildlife and the role we all play. We are seeking $200,000 to refresh our vibrant ecosystem – upgrading animal habitats and enhancing animal care. Your generous contributions will go directly towards:
- Introducing New and Diverse Species - enriching the environment and providing guests with even more opportunities to learn about the incredible biodiversity of tropical rainforests.
- Transforming the Lighting - allowing guests to experience the habitats in new light, while also having a positive effect on the well-being of the animals who call our rainforest home.
- Restoring the Walls and Glass – echoing the rich, lush, and tropical esthetic of the rainforest.
- Increasing Plantings – creating a more natural and enriching environment for both animals and guests.
- And More! While not all improvements will be visible to the public eye, every enhancement will play a vital role in refreshing and renewing the space.
Over the years, our Rainforest has seen extraordinary milestones in conservation including the births of endangered ocelot kittens through artificial insemination, home to the oldest living female and male howler monkeys in the country, and the births of endangered golden lion tamarin monkeys.
Rainforests are beautiful places where plants and animals work together to maintain the delicate balance and beauty of their habitat. With your help, we can educate and inspire more guests to become stewards of wildlife as they take in the sights, sounds, and even smells of the rainforest.
This project demonstrates the Zoo’s continued commitment to improve and advance animal welfare practices as well as our guest’s experience. Thank you for believing in the beauty of wildlife and supporting our mission of connection amongst all living things. Together, we can make a difference.
Jim Wharton, PhD
CEO, Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo