Salisbury Zoo | Ocean City

The Salisbury Zoo, located at 755 South Park Drive in Salisbury, Maryland, is a 12-acre zoological park established in 1954. It has grown from a modest collection of local animals into a well-respected institution dedicated to wildlife conservation, education, and community engagement. The zoo is nestled along a tributary of the Wicomico River, providing a scenic and naturalistic setting for its diverse animal collection. Notably, the Salisbury Zoo offers free admission and parking, relying primarily on donations and community support to fund its operations, making it accessible to all visitors.

History and Development

The zoo’s origins trace back to the early 1950s when unwanted or injured wild animals were released or abandoned in Salisbury Municipal Park. City employees began caring for these animals, sparking interest and support that led to the formal establishment of the zoo in 1954. Over the decades, the Salisbury Zoo has expanded its facilities and animal collection, shifting focus toward creating naturalistic habitats that mimic the animals’ native environments to promote their well-being and enrich visitor experiences.

In 2023, the zoo underwent a significant rebranding to emphasize its commitment to wildlife conservation and education, updating its logo and public messaging. The new logo features silhouettes of an Andean bear and a North American bison-two of the zoo’s flagship species-accompanied by the slogan “A World of Wild on the Eastern Shore,” highlighting the zoo’s mission and geographic identity.

Animal Exhibits and Collections

The Salisbury Zoo is home to over 100 animals representing species native to North and South America, as well as Australia, housed in thoughtfully designed habitats. The zoo’s collection blends well-known species with some rarer and endangered animals, focusing on education about wildlife conservation and natural history. Key animal exhibits include:

Andean Bears: The zoo houses four Andean bears named Chaska, Pinocchio, and their two cubs, Raymi and Inti. These bears are native to the mountainous regions of South America and are recognized for their agility and distinctive crescent-shaped chest markings. The zoo’s breeding program for Andean bears contributes to conservation efforts for this vulnerable species.

North American Bison: Opal Lee and Ruby Jean are the zoo’s resident bison, representing one of North America’s most iconic large mammals. These animals serve as ambassadors for grassland ecosystems and the conservation challenges faced by large mammals.

Red Wolves: The zoo participates in the Red Wolf Species Survival Plan, a critical conservation program aimed at saving this critically endangered species from extinction. The exhibit helps raise awareness about the plight of red wolves and broader endangered species issues.

Other Species: The collection also includes river otters, sloths, macaws, ocelots, wallabies, flamingos, and other exotic and native animals. Each exhibit is designed to simulate the animal’s natural environment, with attention to space, enrichment, and educational signage to inform visitors about behavior, habitat, and conservation status.

Facilities and Visitor Experience

The Salisbury Zoo offers a range of amenities and facilities designed to provide a comfortable and educational experience for visitors:

Trails and Viewing Areas: Paved pathways and ramped boardwalks ensure accessibility for visitors of all ages and abilities, allowing easy navigation through the zoo grounds and animal habitats.

Coati Café and Kona Ice: Seasonal concession stands offer refreshments, snacks, and frozen treats to visitors.

Gift Shop: Located on-site, the gift shop provides souvenirs, educational materials, and wildlife-themed merchandise to enhance visitor engagement and support zoo programs.

Education and Conservation Centers: These spaces host interactive programs, workshops, and exhibits focused on wildlife education, habitat preservation, and conservation advocacy.

Education and Outreach Programs

Education forms a cornerstone of the Salisbury Zoo’s mission. The zoo offers a variety of programs designed to engage visitors, especially children and families, in wildlife learning and stewardship:

Artifact Adventures: Held every other Saturday, these interactive sessions focus on different animal themes, allowing participants to handle biofacts such as skulls, feathers, and bones, fostering hands-on learning about animal biology and ecology.

Summer Camps and Workshops: The zoo organizes summer programs and wildlife workshops that provide in-depth exploration of animal behavior, conservation challenges, and environmental science.

Special Events: The zoo hosts annual events like Earth Day celebrations, featuring environmental education activities, vendor booths, and community engagement opportunities designed to promote conservation awareness.

Conservation Role

The Salisbury Zoo actively participates in several species survival and conservation programs, contributing to the protection of endangered animals and the preservation of biodiversity. By maintaining breeding programs, such as for the Andean bear and red wolf, the zoo supports population sustainability and provides vital education to the public on wildlife conservation challenges.

Visiting Information

Hours of Operation: The zoo is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except on major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Admission: Admission is free, making the zoo an inclusive destination for families and individuals in the region. Donations are encouraged to help support the care of animals and the operation of the zoo.

Accessibility: With paved paths and ramps, the zoo is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs and strollers.

Location: The zoo is situated within Salisbury’s municipal park system at 755 South Park Drive, adjacent to natural waterways, providing a tranquil setting that enhances the visitor experience.

Summary

The Salisbury Zoo stands as an important community institution that balances public education, wildlife conservation, and recreation. Through its diverse collection of animals, thoughtfully designed exhibits, and robust educational programs, it fosters a deep connection between visitors and the natural world. By offering free access, it ensures that wildlife education and appreciation are available to all. The zoo’s ongoing commitment to species conservation and environmental stewardship makes it a vital resource on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, promoting awareness and action toward preserving wildlife for future generations.