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Bridgeport's Del Prete Italian Pastry Wins Award in Great Cake Bake Off!

By CARYN KAUFMAN

BRIDGEPORT: Del Prete Italian Pastry of Bridgeport, Conn. won an award for "Best Filling" in Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo's 90th Birthday Great Cake Bake Off. Eight regional bakeries worked feverishly to bake their wildest creations, which were judged by local celebrities, the Twice Baked Twins, during the Zoo's 90th birthday celebration last Saturday, May 19.   The local bakeries that also participated in the Great Cake Bake Off include Billy's Bakery of Fairfield, Adam's Bakery of Fairfield, DiSorbo's of Hamden, Dorazio Sisters Bakery of Newtown, Lucibello's Italian Pastry Shop of New Haven, Luigi's Italian Pastry & Wedding Cake Center of Bridgeport, and Stew Leonard's of Danbury. Each bakery was instructed to create a three tiered, frosted, zoo and birthday themed cake to be judged on taste, look, and theme. Other prizes were awarded in the following categories: Overall Grand Prize, Best Birthday Theme, Best Cake Texture, Best Flavor, Best Frosting, Best Looking, Best Zoo Theme, and Visitor's Choice.   In honor of Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo's 90th birthday, the Zoo kicks off the '90 Days of Summer" beginning Memorial Day weekend and ending Labor Day weekend.   '90 Days of Summer' Promotions* Memorial Day, May 28 - Labor Day, September 3, 2012:   Mondays: Roll Back Monday - all admission prices roll back to only $9!   Tuesdays: $1 carousel rides   Wednesdays: Receive half price admission if you were born in the 90s! MUST SHOW PROOF (Valid photo ID, birth certificate, passport, report card) Hint: If you were born in the 90s, you'd be 12-22 years old.   Thursdays: If it's a scorcher (over 90 degrees Fahrenheit), receive one free child admission with one paying adult.   Fridays: Be the 90th guest and get in FREE and receive a special gift just for you!   *NOTE: These offers do NOT apply to groups. Cannot be combined with any other discounts or coupons.   Birthday Bonus! As a gift to all Zoo visitors, anyone who comes to Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo on his or her birthday gets in free (Photo ID with birthday required. Valid through 12/31/12).   A complete calendar of summer events may be found at beardsleyzoo.org.   Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Adult admission (ages 12 & older) is $12.00, children (ages 3 -11) and senior admission (62 and older) is just $10.00, and children under 3 years old are free. Zoo members are also admitted free. Parking at the Zoo is free of charge. For information, call: (203) 394-6565. Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is located at 1875 Noble Avenue, Bridge

Connecticut's Only Zoo Hosts 90th Birthday Party with Great Cake Bake Off Saturday at 9:30 a.m.

Here's the info

WHAT: Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo - the state's only zoo - is marking its 90th birthday with its wildest party ever. Visitors can expect to enjoy music, entertainment, and of course, birthday cake! Eight regional bakeries are working feverishly to bake their most delectable creations and will take part in a Great Cake Bake Off that will be judged by hometown celebrities, the Twice Baked Twins, Judy Vig of Monroe and Joy Paoletti of Trumbull. The birthday party is free with paid admission to the Zoo.   BACKGROUND: Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is a premier family destination and one of the state's top tourist attractions, welcoming over 280,000 visitors annually. The zoo is situated on 52 acres in historic Beardsley Park in Bridgeport.   Today the Connecticut Zoological Society, with assistance from the City of Bridgeport and State of Connecticut, runs the zoo year-round as a private, non-profit institution with more than 300 animals representing North and South America. Highlights include a South American rainforest with free-flight aviary, prairie dog exhibit with "pop-up" viewing areas, New England Farmyard, with goats, cows, pigs, sheep, and other barnyard critters, plus the hoofstock trail featuring bison, pronghorn, deer, and more.Visitors especially enjoy the Amur (Siberian) tigers, Brazilian ocelots, Red wolves, Golden Lion tamarins, new Bald eagle exhibit, as well as the Wolf Observation Learning Facility (WOLF), carousel, and Victorian greenhouse.   Little known facts about Connecticut's only Zoo: The Zoo is... Located in a park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted; Registered on the USDA Forest Service National Registry for the 9/11 Living Memorials Project; Site of a world record (upside down juggling); Location of several TV, movie, music videos, and commercials; Home of the restored carousel horses from the legendary Pleasure Beach Carousel. WHERE: Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo, 1875 Noble Avenue, Bridgeport

There's Plenty to Do (for you) at Beardsley Zoo This Spring!

By CARYN KAUFMAN

BRIDGEPORT- Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is pleased to release its UPDATED calendar for March, April, and May 2012, which includes highlights of upcoming programming for Summer 2012. The Zoo has fun events for the entire family all year round, most of which are free with the cost of admission. Calendar subject to change without notice. Please check BeardsleyZoo.org or Facebook for the most up to date information.   Celebrating its 90th birthday in 2012, Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is closer than you think and open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Adult admission (ages 12 & older) is $12.00, children (ages 3 -11) and senior admission (62 and older) is just $10.00, and children under 3 years old are free. Zoo members also are admitted free. Parking at the Zoo is free of charge.    March 2012   March 21, Evening Lecture Series: Take a Virtual Trip to Yellowstone National Park, 7:00 pm Come see the home where the buffalo roam - experience the majesty of the animals and vistas of Yellowstone National Park. $5 suggested donation. Refreshments will be served. This lecture, taking place in the Hanson Exploration Station, is part of the Evening Lecture Series, sponsored by Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Volunteer Association.   April 2012 JUST ADDED! April 1, DrawOn! Noon - 3:00 pm Do you love nature, animals, and drawing? Then join the Zoo for an afternoon filled with fun to celebrate DrawOn!, a program designed to encourage the entire community to celebrate drawing and learning. On Sunday, April 1, from Noon - 3:00 pm, the Zoo will provide opportunities to explore your creativity. All supplies will be provided. All ages welcome. FREE with paid admission.   NEW DATES! April 10 & 11, Zoo Tots, 10:30 am This monthly 45-minute program for children 22 months to four years, who are accompanied by an adult, may include stories, games, activities, crafts, and live animals.  This session, entitled "Animal Tales," will feature animal tails and their functions. The cost is $10 for Zoo members and one child, and $15 for non-members and one child. To reserve a space in the program, pre-register by calling the Zoo's Education Department at 203-394-6563.   April 17 - 19, International Bat Awareness Celebration, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Come learn all about the amazing world of bats! Activities will include scavenger hunts, crafts, story times, and bat box raffles. Program will begin in the Research Station. FREE with paid admission to the Zoo.   UPDATED INFO! April 18, Evening Lecture Series: Bats, Bats, Bats, 7:00 pm Dave LaMarche from Southern Connecticut State University has studied the feeding behaviors of Vampire bats, including the colony at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo. Celebrate the AZA's Year of the Bat at the Zoo with this batty lecture. $5 suggested donation. Refreshments will be served. This program, taking place in the Hanson Exploration Station, is part of the Evening Lecture Series, sponsored by Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Volunteer Association.   April 21 & 22, Party for the Planet, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Join Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo to celebrate the 42nd anniversary of Earth Day!

Our Earth Day event is about encouraging local, organic, earth-friendly choices as a way of promoting better health for our planet and ourselves. Environmentally friendly vendors will be on hand with everything from green cleaning products and recycled fashion accessories to better lawn care for you and wildlife! We'll have live music performed by The Mudpuppies and by The Environmental Hootenanny with Tom Calliman and Ann Shapiro. Both performances are at the Peacock Pavilion. Come learn what you can do to make the planet a healthier place for you and your family.

 

JUST ADDED! April 28, Pet Awareness and Adoption Day, Noon - 3:00 pm

Join the Zoo for Pet Awareness and Adoption Day. Together with regional animal adoption and rescue organizations, you'll learn about the wonderful animals we live with every day - our pets! We'll host experts on pet care and safety, present crafts for the kids, and other surprises.  Take part and learn about caring for your family's best friend.

 

NEW! April 28, Monroe Day at the Zoo, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is proud to invite ALL Monroe residents to come to the Zoo for a reduced admission fee of just $5 with proper I.D. Meet and greet with town officials, business and civic leaders, friends, and neighbors during a fun filled day to please the whole family. Spend the day visiting new animals at the Zoo and enjoying the great outdoors. For more information, please call 203-394-6565 or visit www.beardsleyzoo.org. This event is presented in partnership with the Town of Monroe.

 

May 2012

 

May 2, Evening Lecture Series: The Carnivores of Africa, 7:00 pm

Andrew Stein will discuss Lions, Cheetahs, and Leopards Oh My! Enjoy the ferocity and magnificence of Africa from the safety of your seat. $5 suggested donation. Refreshments will be served. This program, taking place in the Hanson Exploration Station, is part of the Evening Lecture Series, sponsored by Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Volunteer Association.

 

May 8 & 9, Zoo Tots, 10:30 am

This monthly 45-minute program for children 22 months to four years, who are accompanied by an adult, may include stories, games, crafts, and a live animal presentation.  This session, "Garden Critters," will explore our historic greenhouse and its collection as well as animals found in gardens. The cost is $10 for Zoo members and one child, and $15 for non-members and one child. To reserve a space in the program, pre-register by calling the Zoo's Education Department at 203-394-6563.

 

May 12, Dinosaur Day, Noon - 3:00 pm

Enjoy a day of dinosaurs and related activities at the Zoo. Dinosaur experts from around the state will bring information and artifacts on these fascinating pre historic creatures.

 

May 13, Mother's Day

Bring your mom to the Zoo on Mother's Day and her ticket is on us! Connecticut's only zoo wants to thank all those moms who work so hard throughout the year. Enjoy the special day visiting our animals or having a picnic lunch in our Peacock Pavilion.

May 16, Evening Lecture Series: Dinosaurs, 7:00 pm

Westminster biology and geology teacher Nick McDonald, who is regarded as the foremost authority on the paleontology of the Connecticut Valley, has written a new book titled "Window Into the Jurassic World." Take a giant leap back in time to visit the land of the dinosaurs. $5 suggested donation. Refreshments will be served. This program, taking place in the Hanson Exploration Station, is part of the Evening Lecture Series, sponsored by Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Volunteer Association.

 

JUST ADDED! May 19, Zoo's 90th Birthday Party! 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

It's our birthday and we're having a party! Kids of all ages will enjoy activities galore and spectacular surprises all day long. You never know who will be here with special birthday greetings and tasty treats to share... so plan to be here and bring the whole family!

 

NEW! May 20, Bridgeport Day at the Zoo, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is proud to invite ALL Bridgeport residents to come to the Zoo for a reduced admission fee of just $5 with proper I.D. Meet and greet with city officials, business and civic leaders, friends, and neighbors during a fun filled day to please the whole family. Spend the day visiting new animals at the Zoo and enjoying the great outdoors. This event is presented in partnership with Mayor Bill Finch and the City of Bridgeport. Rain date: June 10.

 

PLANNING AHEAD FOR SUMMER!

 

June 23 - 30, July 26 - 31, and August 3 - 10, Family Favorite Chris Rowlands LIVE, 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm

Famous for getting everyone involved, Rowlands brings animals to life through kid-friendly songs, dance, puppets, and colorful props. Chris creatively blends music, comedy, and education to create fast paced, interactive shows that teach and inspire young people. Children are invited to wear fun hats and sing along with Rowlands on stage as he shares his self- penned songs about animals and their environment. Show is free with paid admission to the Zoo and runs 30-35 minutes.

 

July 13-15, 18-22, Connecticut Free Shakespeare presents "Romeo and Juliet"

Performance begins at 8:00 pm, Zoo opens for picnics at 6:30 pm. All shows at the Peacock Pavilion. Show cancels if inclement weather. FREE. For more information, call 203-393-3213 or visit www.ctfreeshakespeare.org.

 

August 1 - 31, Rainforest Reptile Shows

Back by popular demand! Rainforest Reptile Shows features exotic crawlers, unusual slithers, and fascinating creepers, all of which are creatures of the rainforest. Experience direct contact with live animals, artifacts, and fascinating stories about these unusual animals and their natural habitats. Meet "Fred," Rainforest Reptiles' 7-foot alligator. Show runs 30 minutes: Monday - Wednesday 12:30 pm, Thursday and Friday 10:30 am and 12:30 pm, and Saturday and Sunday 10:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 2:30 pm. Visit the Zoo Reptile Trailer, a mobile exhibit featuring 40 live animal displays, open daily from 10:00 am - 3:30 pm. Show and Reptile Trailer are free with paid admission to the Zoo.

March is wild at Beardsley Zoo!

March 13 & 14 (10:30 am) -- Too Tots. Interactive program about "Animal Moves" for kids 22 months to 4 years. $10/members, $15/non-members. Pre-reg at 203-394-6563.

March 17 (9 am - 4 pm) -- St. Patrick's Day. Time to shimmy your shamrock, go green, get jiggy, and groove your way to the Zoo! Kids in the Irish spirit wearing anything green today will be admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. One free child admission per adult. Don't miss our educational "Green Animal" scavenger hunt while you're here!

March 21 (7-8 pm) -- Evening Lecture Series: Take a Virtual Trip to Yellowstone National Park. Come see the home where the buffalo roam -- experience the majesty of the animals and vistas of Yellowstone National Park. $5 suggested donation. Refreshments. This lecture, taking place in the Hanson Exploration Station, is part of the Evening Lecture Series, sponsored by the Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Volunteer Association.  

Clean Your Paws - with Free Wet Ones!

By CARYN KAUFMAN

Wet Ones brand and Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo are teaming up to encourage families to enjoy all the fun and excitement of learning about animals. Zoo visitors will have a chance to get up close and personal with animals then "clean their paws" with a free Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipe afterwards.

"The one thing most folks remember their parents saying is to 'go wash your hands!'" Gregg Dancho, Zoo director recalls. "Through our partnership with Wet Ones, we are able to help parents everywhere help keep their kids germ free."

Coming out of hibernation and into playful fun, Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes is the solution for killing 99.99% of germs and cleaning those messy hands. Wet Ones Wipes will also help keep visitors hands nice and soft with their skin conditioning aloe formula.

Now through September 30th, convenient Wet Ones Hand Wipe displays will provide samples for consumers to use after their "hands-on" experience. Visitors can get their paws on a FREE sample of Wet Ones® Antibacterial Hand Wipes at the dispensers located in the New England Farmyard.

Zoo to Host Asian New Year Celebration

BRIDGEPORT: Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo, the state's only zoo, invites families to celebrate Asian New Year on Saturday, February 4, 2012 from Noon to 3:00 p.m. The Year of the Dragon festivities will feature activities for the entire family including a special children's parade around the Zoo grounds, story time, crafts, and many more fun activities. Please visit the Carousel to meet some of our special lizard guests and partake in the festivities. The snow date is February 11.

About Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo celebrates its 90th birthday in 2012 and is closer than you think! Connecticut's only zoo features 300 animals representing primarily North and South American species. Visitors won't want to miss our Amur (Siberian) tigers, Brazilian ocelots, Red wolves, and Golden Lion tamarins. Other highlights include our South American rainforest with free-flight aviary, the prairie dog exhibit with "pop-up" viewing areas, the New England Farmyard with goats, cows, pigs, sheep, and other barnyard critters, plus the hoofstock trail featuring bison, pronghorn, deer, and more. Visitors can grab a bite at the Peacock Café, eat in the Picnic Grove, and enjoy a ride on our colorful carousel. For more information, visit http://www.beardsleyzoo.org

Come to the Zoo and Party with the Animals This Winter!

By CARYN KAUFMAN

BRIDGEPORT: - Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo, the state's only Zoo, is pleased to release their calendar for late December through February 2012. The Zoo offers fun events for the entire family all year round, most of which are free with the cost of admission. Calendar subject to change without notice. Please check BeardsleyZoo.org or Facebook for the most up to date information.   Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is closer than you think! The Zoo is open every day from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Adult admission (ages 12 & older) is $12.00, children (ages 3 -11) and senior admission (62 and older) is just $10.00, and children under 3 years old and Zoo members are admitted free. Parking at the Zoo is free of charge.   HOLIDAY 2011 SCHEDULE The Zoo will be open for half days on New Year's Eve. The last visitor will be admitted at Noon and the doors will close at 1:00 p.m. New Year's Day - CLOSED   Holiday & Winter Carousel, Café, and Gift Shop Hours: Monday and Tuesday - Café and Carousel closed Wednesday thru Friday - Café and Carousel open at 10:00 am and close at 3:00 pm Monday thru Friday - Gift Shop opens at 10:00 am and closes at 3:00 pm Saturday and Sunday Café - Carousel and Gift Shop open at 9:00 am and close at 4:00 pm     Through December 30, Happy Zoo Year (Come Party with the Animals)! Get ready to ring in the New Year at the Zoo with half price admission! Viktor, our adorable tiger cub born in 2004, is all grown up and he's come home for the holidays. Help us welcome him back to Bridgeport and, while you're at it, say hello to our two new Maned wolves, two new lynx, baby pronghorn, and rare Chacoan peccary piglet, too!   January 2012 January 16, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day The Zoo is honoring the civil rights leader's life and achievements by offering $5.00 admission today.       February 2012 February 4, Asian New Year Celebration, 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm Join your Zoo friends in celebrating the Year of the Dragon with special stories, crafts, a children's parade, and many more fun activities. Snow date is February 11. February 11, Summer Internship Application Deadline Internships are available for college level students in Animal Care, Education, or Veterinary Care. An application and program details may be found on our Web site under Get Involved; Volunteer; Interns. February 11, Wild at Heart Event 2012, 6:30 pm - 10:00 pm Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo invites you to add a little Wild to your Valentine's Day at our Wild at Heart Event 2012. Indulge yourself with food, drink, animal encounters, entertainment, and a fabulous silent auction with lots of love! Dress up in your finest cocktail attire and treat yourself to tantalizing appetizers served alongside a pasta station. For a sweet ending to the night, enjoy chocolate fondue courtesy of The Melting Pot in Darien. NOTE: This is an adults only event. $75 per person / $125 per couple. Tickets are limited. To purchase, please contact Emily Bobowick at (203) 394-6569 or ebobowick@beardsleyzoo.org. February 14, Valentine's Day Show your honey some love! Anyone wearing red today gets 15% off admission! February 21, 22, 23, Paint with the Animals Create one-of-a-kind artwork by collaborating with our very own animal artists-in-residence. This premium program is the first of its kind in the country and is open by reservation only. Please call 203-394-6563 for details. ONGOING Visit our Tropical Winter Greenhouse Enjoy a visit to a tropical paradise at our Victorian Greenhouse. As you stroll through, you can see several species flowering. It's a short walk through another world! Free with Zoo admission. 90 Years... It's Closer Than You Think! Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Celebrates its 90th Birthday in 2012

Tiger Returns to Connecticut to Celebrate 'Happy Zoo Year!'

By CARYN KAUFMAN

 

Zoo welcomes new - and old - animals;

Offers half priced holiday savings

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. - December 16, 2011 - In an attempt to beat the holiday traffic, Viktor, an Amur (Siberian) tiger, has arrived at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo. He has returned home for the holidays and the Zoo is inviting visitors to help welcome him back to Bridgeport and celebrate "Happy Zoo Year" with half price admission from December 26-30, 2011. Also new on exhibit are two Maned wolves, the Zoo's rare Chacoan peccary piglet, and a baby Pronghorn. Viktor was one of three cubs born in 2004 at Connecticut's only Zoo and was transferred to the Detroit Zoo in 2008. He will be ready to greet his East coast fans after Christmas.   "We are thrilled to have Viktor back home and just in time for the holidays," Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Director Gregg Dancho said. "The song says, "Baby, it's cold out there" but with the beautiful weather we're having and a mild winter forecast, there's no better time to come out and meet the newest additions to our Zoo family."   Amur tigers range from nine to12 feet long and grow to be 400-500 pounds. These enormous animals have pale, yellow-orange fur that shades to a creamy white and pale blackish stripes with a distinctive pattern on the face as unique as a fingerprint. These big cats may be found in a variety of habitats including grasslands and evergreen forests and their diet consists mostly of deer, wild boar, elk, lynx, bear, fish, hares, and birds. Their long fur coat, about one to three inches long, protects them in temperatures to 50 degrees below zero. Booskin, the most recent male tiger at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo, was moved to Racine Zoo in Wisconsin to make room for Viktor. The Zoo hopes Viktor will successfully mate with Naka, their female Amur tiger.   Also new to the Zoo this winter are two Maned wolves. The two female wolves are sisters, born last spring in North Carolina. TheManed wolves have access to a heated enclosure, as they are not fans of Connecticut's cold winters. Often mistaken for foxes, the Maned wolf ranges from four to four and a half feet in length, weighing in around 44-50 pounds. They like to eat rodents and other small mammals, birds, reptiles, insects, and will go for the occasional fruit and vegetables at times.   The transfer of the tiger and the wolves is coordinated through the Assocation of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan Program. Animals are regularly transferred between AZA accredited zoos in order to help manage specific, and typically threatened or endangered, species populations.   Baby Animal Updates:   Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo announced the birth of a rare Chacoan peccary last month. Originally expected to remain off exhibit until the spring, the unnamed piglet has ventured out into the public. Visitors will be able to see her if the mild weather continues. Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is the first accredited zoo in the northeast to welcome a Chacoan peccary piglet and was the first accredited zoo in the northeast to exhibit this endangered species.   A baby Pronghorn born at the Zoo in July of this year has recently made its debut in the New England Farmyard. Contrary to their name, Pronghorn, do not actually have true horns. They are the fastest land mammal in North America running at top speeds of 58 mph for short distances and can cruise steadily at 32 mph. They have a light brown coat with white undersides and may be found in grasslands, brush lands, deserts, and alpine plateaus. Pronghorn are browsers, meaning they feast on leaves, plants, or shrubs, but not grasses.   Last month the Zoo welcomed two new Canada lynx and two Common rheas. The Zoo also announced that its two Andean condors, perennial visitor favorites for their prominent location at the entrance to the Zoo, were transferred to Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden. They are being trained in preparation for release into the wilds of Columbia, South America, which is expected to take place in six to nine months. These four-year-old birds are the only condors in the United States to be reintroduced to their natural habitat this year.   Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is closer than you think and is open daily from 9 am - 4 pm. Adult admission (ages 12 & older) is $12.00, children (ages 3 -11) and senior admission (62 and older) is just $10.00, and children under 3 years old are free. Zoo members are also admitted free. Parking at the Zoo is free of charge. For information, call: (203) 394-6565. Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is located at 1875 Noble Avenue, Bridgeport, Connecticut.   Zoo's Holiday 2011 Schedule: The Zoo will be open for half days on the day BEFORE Christmas and New Year's Eve. The last visitor will be admitted at Noon and the doors will close at 1:00 pm. Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day - CLOSED   Holiday & Winter Carousel, Café, and Gift Shop Hours: Monday and Tuesday - Café and Carousel closed Wednesday thru Friday - Café and Carousel open at 10:00 am and close at 3:00 pm Monday thru Friday - Gift Shop opens at 10:00 am and closes at 3:00 pm Saturday and Sunday - Café, Carousel and Gift Shop open at 9:00 am and close at 4:00 pm 90 Years... It's Closer Than You Think! Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Celebrates its 90th Anniversary in 2012

Seasons Greetings from Beardsley Zoo

Happy Holidays!!!

We hope you enjoyed visiting your Zoo this year or seeing us at your schools and in your community. Because of your ongoing support, the Zoo is proud to be celebrating our 90th anniversary in 2012!!!

Highlights of the work your support has helped us to accomplish in 2011:

Births & Releases:

· Rare endangered ocelot born (February)

· Seven Guinea Hogs (April)

· Rare endangered Chacoan Peccary born (November). First time for any Northeast Zoo

· Rare endangered Yacare Caiman (November). First time a crocodilian is born at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo

· Condors moved to Cincinnati Zoo become part of a re-release in 2012

New or returning species on exhibit & redesigned exhibit spaces:

· Snowy Owls (new)

· Vampire Bat Exhibit (new)

· Alligator Exhibit

· Maned Wolf (returning)

· American Rhea (new)

· Otter Exhibit

· Wild Open Space Play Area (new)

New birth at Beardsley Zoo

Rare Peccary Birth and Other New Animals

The Beardsley Zoo was proud a few weeks ago to announce the birth of an endangered Chacoan peccary piglet, the first to be born in the northeast. She will remain off-exhibit until spring, but you can see two Canada lynx and two Common rheas that recently joined us.

Animal Art Show and Sale is Sunday at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo

Animal Art Show and Sale

This year, give a one-of-a-kind holiday gift -- a "Monkey Monet" or "Rat Rembrandt" -- painted by our own Zoo animals! The CT's Beardsley Zoo chapter of the American Association of Zoo Keepers will host a Holiday Animal Art Show and Sale on Sunday, Dec. 4 from 6-9 pm at our Hanson Exploration Station. The event is free and will feature a wide variety of paintings  from our animal artists (such as this piece by one of our maned wolves) as well as an opportunity to meet the Zookeepers who make this enrichment program possible. Proceeds will help bring new toys and treats to the animals.

Zoo Hosts Boo at the Zoo ... Part 2

Treats in store for storm weary Connecticut residents By CARYN KAUFMAN BRIDGEPORT - Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is not letting last weekend's freak Fall storm get in the way of celebrating Boo at the Zoo. As a treat for Connecticut residents, many of whom have been left powerless from the October snowstorm, this Saturday, November 5 Noon to 3:00 pm, the Zoo will host Boo at the Zoo - Part 2! This spooktacular afternoon will include goodies and activities for your little monsters along with harvest hayrides and seasonal enjoyments for the whole family. Once again, anyone under 12, in costume, AND are accompanied by a paying adult, gets in to the Zoo for FREE! Hayrides begin at the W.O.L.F. Cabin and are $2.00 each. Tickets may be purchased at the Zoo gift shop.   "With many communities not likely to get their electricity back until Sunday, Boo at the Zoo Part 2 gives folks something lighthearted to look forward to," explained Gregg Dancho, Zoo director. "The forecast looks great and we hope lots of families take advantage of this fun-filled day."   Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is closer than you think and is open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Adult admission (ages 12 & older) is $12.00, children (ages 3 -11) and senior admission (62 and older) is just $10.00, and children under 3 years old are free. Zoo members are also admitted free. Parking at the Zoo is free of charge. For information, call: (203) 394-6565. Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is located at 1875 Noble Avenue, Bridgeport, Connecticut. # # #

About Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is closer than you think and features 300 animals representing primarily North and South American species. Visitors won't want to miss our Amur (Siberian) tigers, Brazilian ocelots, Red & Maned wolves, Andean (spectacled) bears, and Golden Lion tamarins. Other highlights include our South American rainforest with free-flight aviary, the prairie dog exhibit with "pop-up" viewing areas, the New England Farmyard with goats, cows, pigs, sheep and other barnyard critters, plus the hoofstock trail featuring bison, pronghorn, deer, and more. Visitors can grab a bite at the Peacock Café, eat in the Picnic Grove, and enjoy a ride on our colorful carousel. For more information, visit http://www.BeardsleyZoo.org

Harvest Your Creativity with Zoo's Annual Scarecrow Competition!

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo invites sponsors and participants to join in the fun

Scarecrow Bodybuilder By CARYN KAUFMAN BRIDGEPORT- It's time to brainstorm those scary, silly, and spooktacular ideas for Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo's 4th Annual Scarecrow Competition! The Zoo invites schools and art classes to create their own unique scarecrow design for this year's festivities. Entries will be judged at the Zoo's "Boo at the Zoo" event on October 30.   "It's always great to see the level of creativity that folks put into their scarecrows. Some of them are very clever," said Gregg Dancho, Zoo Director. "Last year we had some really original entries that made the competition close. Some might even say it was a nail biter!"   Themes of scarecrows should be child-friendly however, entrants are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild! Prizes will be awarded for the Best Traditional Harvest Figure, Best Animal-Related Figure, Best Whimsical Figure (celebrity, fantasy, action figure, etc.), and Most Original/Best in Show. All children participating in the contest will get a pass for free admission to the Zoo.

Contest creation kicks off on October 1st. Completed scarecrows must be dropped off by 3:00 pm on October 19 and will be showcased for all Zoo visitors to see during "Scarecrows on Parade," which runs October 21 through October 30. "Best in Show" winner will receive a fabulous pizza party delivered to their school.

 

There is no cost to enter the competition, but the Zoo is seeking corporate sponsors to make this fun filled event happen! Scarecrow sponsorship is just $250, which includes the organization's name on prominent signage both in the Zoo and on the Zoo's Web site. Sponsors also will receive two complimentary family passes. Those interested in becoming a sponsor should contact Lindsay Isner at devintern@beardsleyzoo.org or (203) 394-6569. Payment may be made by sending a check to Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo, Attn: Lindsay Isner, Special Events Coordinator, 1875 Noble Avenue Bridgeport, CT, 06610. 

Alien Scarecrow

 

Scarecrow Competition Rules and Criteria: The Zoo will provide the frame and pumpkin head. Entrants will provide the clothing, paint, decorations, makeup, creativity, inspiration, etc. Scarecrows will be displayed outside so they must be weather tolerant - please keep this in mind while creating! The use of recycled or sustainable materials is strongly encouraged. Scarecrows must be dropped off at the Zoo no later than 3:00 pm on October 19 and must be picked up from the Zoo between November 1 - 5. Any unclaimed scarecrows will become the property of the Zoo. Participants MUST submit the registration form in order to receive the frame. Please direct questions about competition entry or sponsorship to Lindsay Isner at (203) 394-6569.

 

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is closer than you think and open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Adult admission (ages 12 & older) is $12.00, children (ages 3 -11) and senior admission (62 and older) is just $10.00, and children under 3 years old are free. Members of the Connecticut Zoological Society also are admitted free. Parking at the Zoo is free of charge.  # # #

About Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is closer than you think and features 300 animals representing primarily North and South American species.  Visitors won't want to miss our Amur (Siberian) tigers, Brazilian ocelots, Red & Maned wolves, Andean (spectacled) bears, and Golden Lion tamarins.  Other highlights include our South American rainforest with free-flight aviary, the prairie dog exhibit with "pop-up" viewing areas, the New England Farmyard with goats, cows, pigs, sheep and other barnyard critters, plus the hoofstock trail featuring bison, pronghorn, deer, and more.  Visitors can grab a bite at the Peacock Café, eat in the Picnic Grove, and enjoy a ride on our colorful carousel.  For more information, visit http://www.beardsleyzoo.org

Rainforest Reptiles are at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo

August is Alligator Month at the Zoo!   "Rainforest Reptiles" show slithers into town August 25 - 28 featuring rare albino alligator;   Five new 'gators call renovated "Alligator Alley" exhibit home thanks to Unilever

Thursday & Friday: 11:00 am & 1:00 pm    Saturday & Sunday: 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, & 3:00 pm    All shows are FREE with paid admission to the Zoo!

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo concludes its summer programming schedule with Rainforest Reptiles, a dynamic, interactive, and educational show that is sure to engage and excite young and old alike. Rainforest Reptiles features over 200 exotic reptiles, ranging from iguanas, Burmese pythons, and boa constrictors to lizards, turtles, and American alligators.  Visitors also will appreciate the Zoo's newly renovated "Alligator Alley" exhibit, which is home to five new alligators. Improvements were funded by a generous community grant from Trumbull-based Unilever.

 

Rainforest Reptile Shows features exotic crawlers, unusual slitherers, and fascinating creepers, all of which are creatures of the rainforest. Experience direct contact with live animals, artifacts, and fascinating stories about these unusual animals and their natural habitats. Rainforest Reptiles' rare albino alligator, one of only 30 known in the world, will be on display in its own special exhibit during the four days the show is at Connecticut's only zoo. 

 

Alligator Alley's redesigned exhibit accommodates the five new alligators, all male, which reside there. A new deck has been constructed for the alligators, allowing visitors to better observe these reptiles as they go about their daily activities and feedings. A new roof now provides visitors with shading and protection from the elements, and the new audio system allows zookeepers to better interact with the audience. A higher plexi-glass wall prevents debris from easily falling in.

Alligators have been around longer than the dinosaurs, almost 65 million years, and are relatively unchanged in that time. Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo's alligators are between the ages of four and five and are still small, the largest weighing approximately 55 lbs, while the smallest averages 30 lbs. They range from four to five feet long. Known to grow continuously throughout their lives, these creatures are known to reach lengths of thirteen to twenty feet and weights from 400 to 2,000 pounds. They can bite down with 2,000 pounds of pressure with a mouth that contains 65 teeth. Formerly an endangered species, more than one million adult alligators live in the wild today, representing a conservation success story!

 

Rainforest Reptiles features an albino alligator - one of only 30 in the world!

 

Final Chris Rowlands show at Beardsley Zoo is Sunday

By JESSICA SUMMERS

Going...going... gone!  This is your last chance this summer to see popular family entertainer Chris Rowlands.  This Sunday, August 7, is his last day delighting audiences at Connecticut's only zoo!

Chris's interactive, kid-friendly,

get-up-and-dance show runs three times each day, with performances at 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm.  Show runs 30-35 minutes long and is FREE with paid admission to the Zoo.

 

And don't miss "Animal Bytes" while you're here!  These 15-minute mini presentations offer Zoo visitors a unique opportunity to meet and learn about our amazing animals up close and get answers one-on-one from our expert Zoo staff!  You can check out "Animal Bytes" Thursdays through Sundays this summer from Noon - 2:00 pm throughout the zoo grounds. 

Otters Slide into Summer Fun at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo

By CARYN KAUFMAN Zoo opens new slides for the Otter Exhibit sponsored by Aquarion

BRIDGEPORT - Rizzo and DeLaney, aka "Laney," Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo's two resident North American River Otters, now have a new water slide and ramp to frolic and splash on, thanks to a generous sponsorship from Aquarion Water Company. The new slide and ramp offer both fun and function for these playful mammals, while at the same time enhancing their environment. The improvements made to the otters' exhibit focused on upgrading the existing slides. Constructed of wooden planks, the previous slides often fell down and required a lot of ongoing maintenance. These new slides replicate wooden logs, with a hollowed out feature that the otters now enjoy running through. Both Rizzo and Laney initially needed some extra guidance in order to learn how to use the new equipment, with food serving as their preferred motivation during the training process. Bruce Silverstone, Aquarion's vice president of corporate communications, explained Aquarion's continued partnership with the Zoo. "As stewards of the environment, Aquarion is committed to supporting environmental partners, and Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is a perfect example. With a long history and tradition of developing, improving, and sustaining environmental initiatives, the otter exhibit upgrade is an excellent way for Aquarion to assist the Zoo in improving the facility." Rizzo and Laney arrived at the Zoo in 2004. Laney was transferred from Dickerson Park Zoo in Missouri and Rizzo from the St. Louis Zoo. The pair has since produced four litters of offspring. Rizzo and Laney are the only otters currently in residence at the Zoo. Rizzo is eight years old, averages 25 lbs, and is quick and eager to train with food as an incentive. Laney is seven years old, averages 18 lbs, and tends to be more patient than Rizzo. River otters are members of the weasel family. They prefer fish, but also will eat turtles, crayfish, and amphibians. They can remain under water for six to eight minutes and use their tails and back legs to push through the water at speeds of up to 18 mph.

And The Winner Is...Ayla!

Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo and WEBE 108FM announce winning name for rare ocelot kitten

By CARYN KAUFMAN BRIDGEPORT - Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo, the state's only Zoo, is pleased to announce the results of its ocelot kitten naming contest. The winning name, announced on the air Tuesday by WEBE 108 DJ Stormin' Norman, is Ayla,which means "moon light or strong, beautiful wise woman" in Portuguese.  The two-week contest attracted over 800 voters who chose their favorite name online via WEBE 108FM's Web site, and ballot boxes placed throughout the Zoo.  One lucky voter, Mark Letsch of Fairfield, won an exclusive behind the scenes tour of the Zoo with Zoo Director Gregg Dancho as well as a private meet and greet with Zoo officials and representatives from WEBE 108.  Additional names were selected at random to win family four-pack passes to the Zoo.   "This contest was a lot of fun and engaged folks of all ages who wanted to weigh in on what her name should be," explained Dancho. "Ayla is growing fast and everyone should come visit her while she's still in her playful kitten stage."   "Ayla" received a majority of votes (33.5%) over the other name choices. All of the names translate into Portuguese as a nod to the kitten's Brazilian heritage. The results follow:   2nd choice: Chispa, meaning "spark" = 28.4% 3rd choice: Beleza, "beauty" = 19.5% 4th choice: Lua, "moon" = 14% 5th choice: Davida, "gift" = 4.6%   Ayla was born in January thanks to a groundbreaking artificial insemination (AI) procedure. After three months of seclusion to bond with her mother, Kuma, mother and kitten were introduced to the public in the South American Rainforest building in mid-April. This rare kitten is the second born to Kuma, who gave birth in 2008 to a healthy kitten conceived using the traditional AI method. Kuma is the first ocelot ever to have multiple pregnancies and kittens produced by AI.   Brazilian ocelots have been on the endangered species list for more than 25 years.  As one of only 30 Brazilian ocelots maintained in North American zoos, Kuma is very important genetically to the captive population. Her ability to become pregnant after AI on two separate occasions is a testament to the scientific knowledge gained from nearly 20 years of reproductive research with domestic cats and ocelots.

Look what's happening at the Zoo!

July 2 and July 25 - Aug. 7 -- Farming Fever with Chris Rowlands. See article.

July 8 (8:30 am - 3 pm) -- Organic Invasive Removal and Control Workshop. Details here.

July 9 (9:30-10:30 am) -- Kids & Kritters: Wild Inspirations Artists Reception. See article.

July 9 - 15: Toucans/Two Can Days at the Zoo: Two can visit for the price of one with a donation of two cans of non-perishable food.  This promotion applies to general admission rates only and may not be combined with other offers.  Donation bins will be located by the Zoo's ticket booth.

July 11-13, 18-20, and 25-27 (1-2 pm) -- Animal Tales. Visit us for story time, a special craft and even an animal encounter. Free with Zoo admission. Families with children under age 6 are welcome.

July 11-15, 18-22, 25-29: Zoo Patrol -- See article.

July 20 (7 - 8 pm) -- Evening Lecture Series: South African Adventure. See article.

July 20-21 (previews), 22-24 and 27-31 (8 pm) -- The Three Musketeers by CT Free Shakespeare. See article.

   

Connecticut Free Shakespeare to present "The Three Musketeers" at Beardsley Zoo in July

Connecticut Free Shakespeare 2011 
Presents Alexandre Dumas’
THE THREE MUSKETEERS
Adapted by Linda Alper, Douglas Langworthy, and Penny Metropulos
Directed by Ellen Lieberman

CT’s Beardsley Zoo (all shows at 8 PM)
Zoo opens for picnics at 6:30 PM
Previews: Wednesday & Thursday, July 20 & 21
Performances: Friday - Sunday, July 22-24
Wednesday - Sunday, July 27 - 31

The Guilford Green (all shows at 7:30 PM)
Sponsored by Shoreline Arts Alliance
Performances: Wednesday - Sunday, August 3 - 7

FREE ADMISSION & FREE PARKING

For more info: www.ctfreeshakespeare.org

The plight of the cheetah to be lecture topic at Beardsley Zoo

It took 4 million years of evolution for the cheetah to become the exceptional animal it is today and only 100 years for man to place it on the endangered list. Now the fastest land animal in the world is losing its most important race: the race for survival.  

 

At the turn of the 20th century, an estimated 100,000 cheetahs lived throughout Africa and in parts of the Middle East and Central Asia. Today there are just 7,500 cheetahs left and South Africa is home to fewer than 1,000 of these majestic cats Cheetah Outreach is an education and community-based program created to raise awareness of the plight of the cheetah and to campaign for its survival. April Davis, just back from South Africa, will share her work with Cheetah Outreach on the organization's unique approach to predator conservation, enrichment program and nutrition research.

 

There is a $5 suggested donation and refreshments will be served. Lecture takes place in the Zoo's Hanson Exploration Station.