Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Evening Lecture Series Launches with Fairfield University's RIZE Program to Showcase New Wildlife Research

​Bridgeport, CT – Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo announces the launch of their evening lecture series with Fairfield University’s RIZE program.  In a partnership that exemplifies the intersection of academic research and wildlife conservation, Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo and Fairfield University’s Research, Internships and Zoo Education (RIZE) program embark on another year of pioneering studies aimed at enhancing our understanding of animal behavior and welfare.The collaboration, now in its eleventh year, showcases the invaluable contributions of Fairfield University students under the guidance of Associate Biology Professor Ashley Byun, Ph.D., to the zoo's conservation and educational efforts.

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The series of lectures begins on Wednesday, April 24th, with Fairfield University RIZE students presenting their latest research findings. This year's studies, focusing on diverse species from the zoo’s collection, promise new insights into the natural and social behaviors of these animals, with implications for conservation both in human care and in the wild.
The public is invited to join the lectures scheduled to start Wednesday, April 24 at 7pm in the DiMenna-Nyselius Library Lecture Hall.  This program is free for the public to attend. The topics of the presentations are:

• Monkeying around: Observing group dynamics and behavior in zoo Black Handed Spider Monkeys.
• Chill Out Brook Trout: Effect of Warmer Water Temperatures on Aggression.
• Cat Calling: Advertising Sexual Receptivity in Amur Leopards.
• Tweets, Tech and Tunes: Investigating bird enrichment strategies.

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Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo and Fairfield University's RIZE program exemplify the impactful collaboration between academic research and practical conservation efforts. As this partnership continues to flourish, it highlights the essential role of zoos in the preservation of wildlife and the environment.


About Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo Connecticut’s only zoo, celebrating 102 years, features 350 animals representing primarily North and South American and Northern Asian species. Guests won’t want to miss our Andean bear, maned wolves, Mexican gray wolves, and red wolves. Other highlights include our Spider Monkey Habitat, and a new prairie dog exhibit that we’ll cut the ribbon on soon! As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and participant in its Species Survival Plan (SSP) programs, the non-profit Zoo is committed to the preservation of endangered animals and wild habitats. Tickets must be purchased on the Zoo’s website at beardsleyzoo.org