​Bridgeport, CT (May 22, 2025) - Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is delighted to announce the arrival of Ponya, an 11-month-old female red panda from the Detroit Zoo. Ponya makes her public debut this week in the Natt Family Red Panda Habitat, a state-of-the-art exhibit complete with indoor and outdoor viewing areas, climbing structures, and temperature-controlled spaces throughout the seasons.

Ponya, born in 2024 at the Detroit Zoo, has been captivating visitors with her playful antics and inquisitive nature. Her move to Connecticut is part of a collaborative effort among AZA-accredited institutions to ensure the long-term survival of red pandas through carefully managed breeding programs.

​Later this month, Dorji, our male red panda, will be transferred to another AZA-accredited institution as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP). Dorji joined Beardsley Zoo in May 2024 from Utah's Hogle Zoo and has been a beloved resident, known for his sweet and curious demeanor.

Bridgeport, CT – Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is calling all local makers, creatives, and small business superstars to the Community Corner for the 2025 season. Community Corner is a lively weekend pop-up on zoo grounds and the perfect place to showcase your products, share your story, and connect with thousands of zoo visitors from Memorial Day through Labor Day, every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 3pm. 

​Community Corner is designed to bring the vibrant spirit of farmer's markets and vendor fairs to the heart of the zoo, providing a pop-up shop space available for rent. This initiative not only supports local businesses but also enhances the zoo experience, offering guests a chance to explore and purchase unique products in a charming farmstand setting. 

Bridgeport, CT- (April 21, 2025) Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo turns up the heat for this year’s Wild Wine, Beer & Food Safari on Saturday June 7th , with a next-level, local celebrity twist.

​Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is thrilled to announce that Chef Cathy Cann, the culinary queen behind Cat’s Kitchen of Connecticut, will be featured during VIP Hour at this year’s must-attend fundraising event! Cathy Cann was recently a participant on FOX’s hit show "Next Level Chef" with Gordon Ramsay, where her bold flavors and creative cooking took the stage.

Guests at the VIP Hour on Saturday, June 7th will get a chance to taste Cat’s creations in person—before the gates open. With early entry, special animal encounters, and exclusive pours from Foolproof Brewing, Sound Coffee and Bites Company, this experience is nothing short of unforgettable. Tickets for VIP hour are limited and almost sold out, click here for your tickets https://www.beardsleyzoo.org/wild-wine.html.

Bridgeport, CT – Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is thrilled to announce its annual Party for the Planet, a vibrant Earth Day celebration dedicated to wildlife, conservation, and environmental education. Saturday, April 19th, from 9am-3pm, is a day designated for engaging activities designed to inspire and empower individuals to make a positive impact on our planet. 

Event Highlights: Beardsley Park Community Cleanup: Volunteers kickstart the day in a community cleanup from 9am to 12pm. Participants will help beautify Beardsley Park and the waterfront, contributing directly to the health of our local environment. Due to popular demand, this activity is at capacity.