The Zoo began during the summer of 1894 at its present location. In the beginning, the collection consisted of only a handful of exhibits with the focus on native species such as black bears, foxes and deer. Over the next few years, the animal collections was expanded to include monkeys, raccoons, squirrels, owls, domestic hens, geese and ducks. In 1912, bison and elk were added, and a new barn and paddock were built to house them. Changes occurred during 1935-36 when a new black bear exhibit was constructed by the Works Progress Administration (W.P.A.) to replace the older exhibit. Also, throughout this period, several original frame structures were removed including the Monkey House and Aviary.

By the early 1960's, exotic species began to make their appearance at the zoo. These included an Asian elephant, leopards, lions and some smaller species such as wallabies. These animals contributed to public enjoyment of the zoo, however, they did not replace native species as the dominant collection feature.

From 1960 on, there was well meaning but haphazard growth and development within the zoo. Comprehensive planning for the future was not a part of these changes. While the city did hire a number of architectural firms to develop plans which addressed site-wide problems, none were adopted.

The failure to plan was costly and eventually led to the loss of AZA (American Zoo and Aquarium Association) membership. By 1993-94, the zoo's existence was challenged by the USDA. While other zoos during the same period benefited from planned growth and change, the Buttonwood Park Zoo simply deteriorated into an unsightly community liability. In 1994, under the threat of closure, the city took action. A comprehensive Master Plan was developed that addressed USDA concerns and defined a completely modern zoo which will provide safe and enjoyable recreation and education opportunities for all visitors.

In addition to meeting USDA regulations, there is the need to re-establish the Buttonwood Park Zoo within the professional community.

Accreditation standards need to be met in order to achieve and maintain membership in the AZA. This designation will ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws concerning the protection and management of animals as well as provide opportunities for continued professional growth and development. In addition, the establishment of an effective alliance with state and local conservation agencies will enhance these objectives while providing a sound foundation for the conservation, research, and public education necessary for successful captive and wild animal population management.

The Buttonwood Park Zoo project is moving forward steadily although at times progress may seem almost invisible. Two dozen architects, landscape designers, engineers and draftsmen have worked for over a year designing the new zoo. Designing human habitats can be difficult but imagine designing habitats for over 100 wild animal species plus humans: and in a locally well known flood plain! Good zoo design is always a complex, time consuming task.

Recently in April, you may have noticed heavy equipment and city work crews demolishing all of the old buildings and out-dated exhibits with the exception of the elephant house which was constructed in 1986. The Department of Public Works Wastewater Division has now completed site demolition, saving taxpayers $80,000 - $100,000 in demolition expenses.

Building the Zoo

Emily and Ruth, our Asian elephants remained at the zoo throughout the construction phase. They were too big and it was too expensive to move them to another location. If you are a visitor to Buttonwood Park, there is a good chance you will meet them and their trainers in the park. You can also visit our seals at Mystic Aquarium where they are on display. The new zoo will feature the theme: "Berkshires to the Sea" with bears, otters, beavers, mountain lions, bobcats, seals, bald eagles, coyotes, fox, raccoons, fish, turtles, snakes, frogs, salamanders, ducks, wading birds, and Whitetail deer just to name a few. But, did you know that the Zoo will also focus on the history of Domestic Animals in New England with working teams of draft horses and oxen as well as ponies, sheep, goats, dairy cattle, fowl, pigs, and a working sheep dog! We are working hard to bring New Bedford a very unique and wonderful attraction, truly unlike any other zoo in New England.

The question we are most often asked is: "When will the zoo re-open"? Contractors will finish and be off site early this summer. Zoo staff will then expand activities to include the finishing touches to all the new exhibits including several that staff are now building. Staff will also bring in over 300 new animals and slowly acclimate them to their new habitats. In addition, staff will develop new educational programs and animal demonstrations while also attending to a mountain of operational details too numerous to list.

Building Buttonwood Farm