New Jersey History and Sites

Located within the Cape May County Park, the Cape May Zoo was established in 1978. When the Zoo first opened, the Zoo held an African lion, spider monkeys, barn animals, and some other wildlife. The total of number of animals then was 70. Despite the limited number of animals, many locals were drawn to the Zoo because it was a free attraction, and fun place to visit.

Within a few years, the Zoo expanded to incorporate more exotic animals. The new animals consisted of black bears, bison, antelopes, and birds. By 1986, the Zoo also received generous donations, which allowed the go through some major renovations. Several new exhibits were built for lions, tigers, cougars, and reptiles. Furthermore, the Zoo constructed a large African Savannah, which had 57-acres for giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. These renovations took years, but they were truly worth the time and effort.

Today, the Cape May Zoo consists of over 500 animals and 250 species, quite an increase from the original 70 animals. With the exception of Antarctica, there are animals from every continent. Though free to the public, the Zoo is well-kept, and has plenty of land and money to care for these animals. These animals were not purchases for spectacle purposes, but rather taken in for humanitarian reasons. Some of the animals, including a bobcat and ring-tailed lemurs, were illegally kept as house pets before being confiscated from citizens and given to the State of New Jersey. Then, the State sent the confiscated animals to Zoo for proper care. Many other animals end up at the zoo as a result of accident or injury, so they are unable to live or return in the wild. Regardless of an animal’s background, each animal receives the attentive care from zoo keepers while at the Cape May Zoo.

As a result of their care, a lot of animals live long and healthy lives at the zoo. The Cape May Zoo houses the oldest living Red Panda in North America. The red panda, named Luna, was born on June 22, 2001, making her 22 years old. To keep animals living long and healthy lives, the zoo purchases medicine and high-quality foods. The animals truly live a good life.

The zoo is open year-round, which the exception of Christmas. Many people come to Cape May, and greater Jersey shore region, in the summer for the beaches, but the Zoo creates a nice break from the sand and salt water. Plus, the Zoo remains free to the public for admission and parking, though make sure you get there early, spots fill up fast! Even though the Zoo is free, visitors can make donations to go towards buying animals exhibits, food, and supplies. With so many animals, visitors can spend all day wandering around the zoo. Plus, the surrounding Cape May Park has a variety of activities including playgrounds, fishing ponds, picnic areas, wildlife carousel, a rocking climbing wall, and more. Since the Zoo opened over 45 years ago, the Cape May Zoo has grown and developed to be a great place for visitors and animals alike.

Resources

Davies, Danielle. “It’s a Zoo out There: Our fun and fascinating Cape May County Menagerie.” Cape May Magazine. Summer 2022. https://www.capemaymag.com/feature/its-a-zoo-out-there/

Franklin, Chris. “See vintage pics from this N.J. Zoo (among best in the world!) that’s turning 40.” Nj.com True Jersey. June 8, 2018. https://www.nj.com/cape-may-county/2018/06/cape_may_county_zoo_40th_anniversary.html

“Park & Zoo History.” Cape May County Park & Zoo. Accessed November 11, 2023. https://capemaycountynj.gov/1235/Park-Zoo-History

“Red Panda.” Cape May County Park & Zoo. Accessed November 12, 2023. https://www.capemaycountynj.gov/1111/Red-Panda