BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport has launched a major fundraising initiative to reimagine, revitalize and refresh its World Tropics Building.
The space features an immersive South American rainforest exhibit that opened in 1992, according to a release from the zoo.
The site originally debuted as the Bird and Mammal Building before being reimagined 30 years ago so that it could offer guests a glimpse into what the zoo describes as “one of the planet’s most diverse and vital ecosystems.”
The zoo hopes to raise $200,000 to update and enhance the space so that it remains a top-of-the-line experience for visitors and can support nearly 20 endangered and threatened species who call it home, including Golden Lion Tamarins, Two-Toed Sloths and Howler Monkeys.
Zoo officials hope that the revitalization project meets the ever-changing needs of the zoo’s species and visitors by creating an exhibit experience that is both immersive and engaging.
“Our rainforest exhibit has been a central feature at the zoo for over 30 years,” CEO Jim Wharton said. “With community support, we can make upgrades to enhance habitats and improve both animal welfare and guest experience, ensuring the rainforest remains a vibrant educational destination for years to come.”
The funds that will be raised will help expand the rainforest’s biodiversity to provide additional educational opportunities. Lighting will be upgraded, creating a more dynamic experience for visitors while promoting animal well-being.
Additionally, walls and glass will be restored, refreshing the space to reflect the “lush, tropical aesthetic of a true rainforest,” according to the zoo.
Plantings will also be enhanced, increasing natural foliage to enrich the environment for animals and visitors.
“Many enhancements will improve animal welfare in ways unseen by the public but are vital for the exhibit’s health and longevity,” the zoo says, in its release.
The zoo said the World Tropics Building is also home to significant conservation milestones such as the births of endangered ocelot kittens through artificial insemination, the care of the oldest known Howler Monkeys in the United States and successful breeding programs for Golden Lion Tamarins.
“Each milestone highlights the zoo’s commitment to conservation and animal welfare, as well as the importance of preserving biodiversity,” the zoo said, in the release.
Rainforests are known as beautiful places where plants and animals collaborate to maintain the balance and beauty of their habitat. The space at the zoo offers guests a unique opportunity to experience the sights, sounds and sensations of these habitats.
“This project demonstrates the zoo’s continued commitment to improve and advance animal welfare practices as well as our guest’s experience,” Wharton said.
The zoo invites the public to join in on the effort. One can click here to donate online.
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Dalton Zbierski is a digital content producer and writer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at dzbierski@FOX61.com.
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