by Drew Katronick (8th)

The Bronx Zoo is celebrating its 125th birthday this year. This iconic New York City zoo first opened its gates in 1899, quickly becoming known for its innovative approach to animal care for the time. However, its history isn't without controversy. In the early 20th century, the zoo displayed a human from West Africa as though he were an exhibit. While sideshows were common back then, showcasing people with deformities in often inhumane ways, this decision remains a troubling moment in the zoo's past.

Since that time, the Bronx Zoo has become a global leader in conservation. Over the years, it has played a key role in saving species like the American bison, as well as many reptiles and amphibians, from extinction. Reflecting this mission, the zoo's parent organization changed its name to the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) in 1993. Today, the WCS oversees five zoos and aquariums across New York City while funding conservation efforts worldwide.

This year, the zoo introduced a unique exhibit called Animal Chronicles, featuring statues of animals the zoo helped save from extinction. While the exhibit drew attention, it lacked live animals, leading some to view it as more of a promotional campaign. Now, after closing Animal Chronicles at the end of summer, the Bronx Zoo is preparing for a major announcement, set to be revealed at midnight on December 4th-5th. Hints from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade suggest a new exhibit is on the way.

A New Exhibit on the Horizon?

If the rumors are true, the Bronx Zoo is poised to announce its first new exhibit since Madagascar opened in 2008. Many speculate it could involve reopening one of its closed attractions, such as the World of Darkness nocturnal animal house (closed in 2009) or the former Primate House (closed in 2012).

The World of Darkness seems the most likely candidate. The Thanksgiving Day Parade float featured an animal peeking out of a dark tower, possibly hinting at nocturnal creatures like owls. The zoo has also used phrases like "Don’t be kept in the dark" in its promotions, further supporting this theory. While the original World of Darkness exhibit wasn’t hugely popular, a revamped version with more engaging species could draw visitors.

Reopening the Primate House is another possibility, though renovations might be complicated by historic landmark regulations. A revamped exhibit could showcase orangutans or focus on Australasian animals, filling gaps in the zoo’s current offerings. However, an Australasian exhibit seems less likely, as the float’s theme and recent hints suggest a focus on nocturnal animals.

Other Possibilities

Some speculate that the zoo might announce a larger transformation plan to address broader issues, such as finding companions for its solitary elephant. However, such an ambitious project would likely take years to complete. Others suggest the Bronx Zoo could introduce something entirely unexpected, like pandas or a new Galapagos-themed exhibit.

While the possibilities are endless, reopening the World of Darkness seems the most likely outcome. Whatever the announcement, it’s exciting to see the Bronx Zoo taking steps to engage visitors and expand its offerings. Stay tuned for updates!