Rosamond Gifford Zoo

Rosamond Gifford Zoo

   Nestled in the heart of Burnet Park in Syracuse, New York, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo stands as a vibrant hub for wildlife education, conservation, and family fun. Founded in 1914 as the Burnet Park Zoo, it has evolved into one of the top 10% of zoos in North America, earning accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Spanning 43 acres, the zoo is home to over 700 animals representing more than 216 species, many of which are endangered or threatened. The zoo was renamed in honor of Rosamond Gifford following a significant $2 million donation in 1999 that established an educational endowment. From its humble beginnings with a small collection of animals, it has grown into a modern facility dedicated to connecting people with the natural world.

A Rich History Rooted in Community
   The origins of the zoo trace back to the late 19th century when citizens lobbied for a zoological department in Burnet Park, which was established in 1886. Officially opening in 1914, the zoo has celebrated over a century of milestones, including major expansions and renovations that prioritize animal welfare and visitor engagement. Today, managed by Onondaga County Parks and supported by the Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, it continues to thrive as a breeding facility for endangered species, contributing to global conservation efforts.

Exhibits and Animals: A World of Wonders
   Visitors can explore a diverse array of indoor and outdoor exhibits designed to mimic natural habitats. Indoor highlights include the USS Antiquities Cave with aquatic life, the Diversity of Birds aviary, the Adaptation of Animals section featuring nocturnal creatures, and the Social Animals building showcasing primates and more. Outdoors, the Domestic Animal Barn offers interactions with farm animals like goats, sheep, alpacas, and pigs. Standout residents include Asian elephants, Humboldt penguins, Amur tigers, a Komodo dragon, red pandas, and recently welcomed additions like six red wolf puppies, two male Humboldt penguins, and Amur tiger cubs born to mother Zeya. The zoo also features the new Zalie and Bob Linn Amur Leopard Woodland and a state-of-the-art Animal Health Center opened in 2022.

Commitment to Conservation and Education
   Conservation is at the core of the zoo’s mission. It supports in-situ projects for species like Asian elephants, red pandas, Panamanian golden frogs, and big cats through partnerships with organizations such as the International Elephant Foundation and AZA SAFE. On-site initiatives include eco-friendly infrastructure like a bio-filtration system for the elephant pool and participation in the Save the Rain program, which saves millions of gallons of water annually. The “Round Up for Conservation” program has raised significant funds since 2014.

   Education programs cater to all ages, from Stroller Safari and Wild Beginnings for toddlers to One Day Zoo Camps and Kids’ Night Out for school-aged children, plus adult learning series and camps focused on animal care and science. These hands-on experiences foster a deeper appreciation for wildlife.

Planning Your Visit    The zoo is open year-round, with rental equipment available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Admission details can be found on the official website, and accessibility is a priority with free wheelchairs and motorized scooters (for adults 18+). Visitors should note rules like no feeding animals, prohibited items such as balloons and drones, and a smoke-free environment. Recent events include the Rosamond Cup golf fundraiser and the arrival of a new male Amur tiger named Metis.

   Whether you’re a local or a traveler, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo offers an inspiring escape into the animal kingdom, blending entertainment with meaningful conservation work.