Philadelphia Zoological Garden, Zoo in the Centennial District of Philadelphia, United States.
The Philadelphia Zoological Garden is a zoo along the Schuylkill River in the Centennial District of Philadelphia, displaying more than 1,300 animals from 340 species across roughly 42 acres (17 hectares) in naturalistic enclosures. The grounds feature several themed zones and pathways that allow visitors to walk through different habitats.
The garden received its charter in 1859 and opened its gates in 1874 as the first zoological garden in the United States with around 1,000 animals. Over the following decades, the institution introduced new concepts for animal care and education.
The garden's name reflects the city where it stands, while its riverside location offers visitors pathways through green areas. Families often use the grounds as a place where children can observe animals up close.
The garden opens daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with animals in different sections showing more activity at different times. The Zoo360 system of elevated pathways allows visitors to watch animals from new angles.
The institution participates in a program to rescue birds from Guam, working to keep threatened species like the Guam kingfisher from disappearing. This effort takes place behind the scenes and focuses on breeding and protecting rare birds.
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