History of the Baltimore Zoo
The Baltimore Zoo, home to 200 species and more than 1,500 inhabitants, is located in Baltimore, Maryland. Now called the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, this 160-acre property offers creatures in natural settings, including animals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. Approximately 400,000 visitors visit the Baltimore Zoo each year.
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Early Days
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In 1862, Baltimore citizens donated animals to the Druid Hill Park. The large municipal park accepted the donated animals for public display. The first donation was four swans.
Zoo Days
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In 1876, the Maryland legislature formally created the Baltimore Zoo. It is the third-oldest zoo in the United States. The oldest is in Philadelphia, and the second-oldest zoo is in Cincinnati.
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Decline
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Originally designed as a formal animal display, the zoo at first prospered but then fell into decline. By 1947, it was called one of the poorest and smallest American zoos.
Downsizing
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Arthur Watson, a new director, took over the zoo in 1948 and rebuilt its popularity. Unfortunately, by the 1990s, budget woes and aging facilities took another toll. Animals were loaned to other zoos, and inadequate habitat facilities were closed.
Modern Days
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In 2004, the zoo restructured, added public-outreach events, expanded habitats that resembled the natural homes of animals and developed special programs. With interactive programs and tours, the zoo turned its decline into zoological success.
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