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2380 BCE
First Known Zoo
Over 4,000 years ago, the first zoo belonged to The King of Ur. While no one knows exactly what was in the zoo, evidence proves that he had lions! -
30 BCE
The Rise of Private Zoos
Private zoos became a status symbols among the elite in Rome, Italy. While some had separate aviaries, others had birds sitting above the dinner table to entertain guests! -
790
Animal Collector
Emperor Charlemagne collected animals from other rulers around the world. One of his most prized possessions was an elephant from Baghdad! Charlemagne had THREE zoos! -
1500
One Big Zoo!
In present day Mexico City, Aztec emperor Moctezuma II kept jaguars, sloths, llamas, and poisonous snakes with bells attached to their tails. Over 600 people to took care of the zoo and the animals. -
System of Nature
In Sweden, Carl Linnaeus began to classify animals with his book System of Nature. Because of this, a new branch of science develops--- zoology! -
Tiergarten Schonbrunn
Emperor Franz I, Stephan von Lothringen built a spectacular menagerie in Vienna. It was originally for his family and noble guests only. This was the first zoo, Tiergarten Schonbrunn. Today, it welcomes over 2 million guests and has over 8,500 animals! -
The London Zoo
In 1828, the London Zoo opened to the public. It is the world's first modern zoo. It was originally only open for scientific study. However, in later years, the zoo opened for anyone who could afford the admission---one penny! -
Jenny the Orangutan
The most popular animal at the London Zoo was Jenny the Orangutan. Charles Darwin studied her to develop new ideas in biology. -
Down's Zoological Gardens
Down's Zoological Gardens opened in 1847 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. It was the first zoo in North America. At the time, it had the largest collection of animals outside of Britain. -
America's First Zoo
In Philadelphia, PA, America's first zoo opened. Admission to the Philadelphia Zoo was only $.25. This zoo was supposed to open in 1859, but was delayed until 1874 because of the Civil War. -
United States' National Zoo
United States' National Zoo was the first to become dedicated to protecting "native animals that were threatened with extinction". Because money was limited, this zoo depended on people donating raccoons, possums, and other animals that people no longer want. -
Where the Buffalo Roam
In New York, the Brox Zoo sent 15 American buffalo to Oklahoma. This was the first time an endangered animal was reintroduced to their natural habitat. The transition was a success. -
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums
In 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums was founded. This organization developed standards that make sure that animals are kept healthy and safe. This association is the current accrediting sources for zoos across the country. -
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The One and Only Ivan
Ivan the Gorilla lived alone in a shopping mall for 27 years. Over time, people began to get upset over his treatment because of a National Geographic film called "The Urban Gorilla". In 1994, Ivan was moved to Zoo Atlanta where he lived out his remaining years.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYYL2LxotA8 -
A Zoo of Our Own
In 1969, the Louisville Zoo opened. Currently, the zoo is home to over 1,500 animals. Guests can enjoy seeing animals from around the world. The zoo had been recognized by the AZA for innovation and excellence.
