Monroe County’s Seneca Park Zoo is located in
the historic park Seneca Park of Rochester, NY, designed by the famous American
landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted. The zoo occupies approximately
sixteen (16) acres and is comprised of five (5) major buildings/exhibits and
numerous animal enclosures.
Phase One of the $57 million master plan
expansion project includes the addition of the Cold Asia and Savannah’s of
Africa Exhibits.
The construction of the Cold Asia Exhibit, the
first project with Phase 1 of the Seneca Park Zoo Master Plan, provides habitat
for both the Red Pandas and Snow Leopards, native to the eastern Himalayan and
Southwest China regions. The exhibit opened June 1, 2018.
The habitat with a distinctive elevation allows
the animals to climb and explore the way they would in the wild. Other design
features include a window looking into the Snow Leopard exhibit and an open
viewing point for the Red Pandas, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
The 15,000 square-foot Animals of the Savannah
exhibit at the Seneca Park Zoo opened September 13, 2018, concluding Phase One.
The brand new, five-acre addition introduces Masai giraffes, plains zebras, and
ostriches to outdoor exhibits, as well as new outdoor quarters for Bill, the
already-loved Rhino, and potentially more rhinos in the future.
Inside the new building, peek at the naked mole
rats, a number of small animals, and the relocated aviary. The exhibit also
includes the Savannah Outpost, a new concessions building that features a
giraffe feeding area. Besides animals, the Zoo now features a tram that will
run from the current entrance to the extended north end, making it easier for
guests to move around the linear park.
CPL worked closely with consultant WDM Architects, who specializes in the design of animal enclosures and living spaces.
Having facilities like this in the community symbolizes Monroe County’s commitment to providing world class amenities for its residents—both animals and people.
