A true community treasure, the Erie Zoo is a gem of the region, and as with many rare jewels, the Zoo holds a rich history. The Zoo’s history began in 1893 when animals arrived at the Glenwood Park property between Shunpike Road and Glenwood Park Avenue, just south of what is now 38th Street. Glenwood Park officials were offered eight animals including deer, a moose and angora goats. This collection grew and in 1924 the Erie Public Parks Association officially named the animal park the Glenwood Zoo.
In 1927, the Zoo welcomed its first elephant, Tomboy, and the City of Erie continued to operate the park for several decades. Over time, the Zoo fell into disrepair and in 1962 a series of letters to the editor proclaimed that something needed to be done — it was time to either fix or close the Zoo. A small group of committed citizens set out to make our Zoo something of which the community could be proud and the Erie Zoological Society was formed. The Society negotiated with the City to take operational control of the Zoo which the Society holds to this day. These individuals worked to create a place where animals received the very highest level of care, where guests could enjoy nature in a garden-like setting, and where tourists could enjoy what Erie had to offer. Indeed the Society and staff created a place where the community could in fact “change the world” by protecting species facing extinction.
Updates and Improvements
In the years since the Erie Zoological Society was formed, the Zoo has experienced continuous change and great strides have been taken to improve the park. Over the last 30 years, much has been done. The Kiboka Outpost and Wild Asia exhibits were opened, the children’s zoo was completely renovated and new habitats for Amur leopards, Canada lynx and African lions were built. The Flo Fabrizio Ice Center, which the Society also operates, was renovated and reopened. Most recently, renovations were completed on the historic Main Zoo Building and the new Hilbert Family Primate Center opened offering three additional primate species to the delight of zoo guests.
During this time, the Zoo also expanded its education and conservation programs. The Zoo hosts thousands of children and adults each year in unique one-of-a-kind learning experiences, fostering appreciation of nature through memorable experiences and meaningful action — the heart of the Zoo’s mission. These programs take place at the Zoo, off campus, and virtually allowing everyone the opportunity to learn about endangered animals and important issues regarding wildlife and conservation. The Zoo’s conservation efforts have grown as well.
The Zoo now supports over a dozen different conservation programs including those focusing on endangered species such as the African black-footed penguin, the Amur leopard, and African painted dogs. The Zoo participates in various breeding programs and is involved in local conservation projects such as Monarch Watch, a program focusing on the conservation of threatened Monarch butterflies. Most recently, the Zoo developed a program to aid in protecting native waterways. This program assists by taking in invasive goldfish and koi and placing them in one of the Zoo’s ponds — affectionately named the Last Chance Lagoon.
New Leadership
2023 was a pivotal year for the Zoo as newly appointed president and CEO (and zoo veteran), Roo Kojancie, and her team secured the planning services of the leading zoo strategic planning firm in the country, leading to the completion of the Zoo’s very first facilitated strategic plan. This plan lays the roadmap for the Zoo for the next five years, and will position the zoo to strengthen, modernize and regain accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Wild About the Future
As the Zoo prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary, it reflects on its rich history and the committed citizens who worked to make the Zoo the regional treasure it is today. 2024 is set to be an unforgettable year with new exhibits opening in the summer including the North American river otter and endangered red panda habitats, significant technology upgrades both around the park and to their online platforms, and a months-long centennial celebration. Big things are in store for 2024 as the Zoo seeks the support of a new generation of committed citizens and works toward a very bright future.
Headquarters:
423 West 38th Street
Erie, PA 16508
Phone: 814/864-4091
Website: eriezoo.org
