Connecticut’s Only Zoo Announces Name Change

BRIDGEPORT — Beardsley Zoological Gardens, 1875 Noble Avenue, has officially changed its name to Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. The name change reflects the zoo’s status as the state’s only zoo, and emphasizes its impact and reach across Connecticut.

“We’re proud to be Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo,” said Gregg Dancho, zoo director since 1983. “We have been a top family destination for the entire state and region since our inception and we hope this name change reflects our commitment to Connecticut.”

The zoo is one of the state’s top tourist attractions, with an annual attendance averaging 250,000 visitors. Staff from the zoo’s educational department visit schools statewide each year, presenting interactive education programs that enhance school curriculum for approximately 50,000 children in pre-K through high school. The zoo is also a popular destination for school and summer camp trips, providing a unique hands-on educational experience.

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo was established in 1922. Open year-round, it houses almost 300 animals representing approximately 125 primarily North and South American species, including many that are on the endangered or threatened lists (such as red wolves, maned wolves, Andean bear, golden lion tamarin, Amur tigers, ocelot, and Andean condor).

The zoo employs 42 full-time and many part-time or seasonal employees. In recent years, the zoo has opened a new exhibit for maned wolves, renovated its Victorian Greenhouse, and announced plans for a new South American “Jaguar Walk” exhibit. It has bred several endangered species and has industry-supported breeding recommendations in 2003 for Amur tigers, red wolves, and maned wolves, all of which are endangered.

Admission to Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is $7 for adults, $5 for children (ages 3–11) and seniors (62 and older), and free for children under 3. The zoo is open 9 am to 4 pm every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas. and New Year’s Day. The zoo can be contacted at 203-394-6565 or at BeardsleyZoo.org. The website offers information about the zoo, its special events, membership opportunities, and more.