The New York State Zoo at Thompson Park

Specialties

The New York State Zoo at Thompson Park prides itself as being the only zoo in the world to exhibit species native to New York State. Abundant, threatened or endangered animals, including wolverines, bears, eagles, mountain lions and more make their home at our 32-​acre Zoo. The New York State Zoo is now the second most visited attraction in the Thousand Islands Region. It attracts nearly 50,000 visitors per year and is supported by over 800 member households and reaches nearly 35,000 people through education programs. The mission of the New York State Zoo is to promote the conservation of wildlife and wild places by helping community members build positive sustainable relationships with nature, empowering them to take action on behalf of the environment and inspiring fascination with the rich heritage of New York’s native flora and fauna.

History

Established in 1920.

Since its founding, Watertown’s Zoo has been home to a diverse collection of wildlife from the exotic to the indigenous. The first animals were purchased with funds raised by the Park Zoo Club. The club, under the leadership of a 12 year old boy, was formed as a support organization to provide a source of funding to feed and house animals like porcupines, raccoons and other small carnivores. In 1988, a new generation of leadership transformed the Zoo and established the Thompson Park Conservancy and Zoo. Since then, the Zoo has worked tirelessly to provide family oriented programs and inspire conservation and education upon all who visit it.

Meet the Manager

John W.

Manager

John Wright has served as Executive Director of the New York State Zoo at Thompson Park since 2011. Previously Mr. Wright has worked at Disney Animal Kingdom, Orlando, Fl., Birmingham (Ala.) Zoo, and Kansas City Zoo, Kansas City, Mo. Mr. Wright has served in related organizations, Associated Member of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (1997-​present), Member of the American Association of Zoo Keepers (1993-​present), National Audubon Society (2006-​present). Mr. Wright has also numerous publications on zoo and conservation topics.

The New York State Zoo at Thompson Park also recommends

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