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Master Plan / Map
The new Zoo will introduce visitors to its narrative theme—the importance of water. The City of Buffalo was founded to take advantage of the natural resources of the Great Lakes and Niagara Falls. Therefore, used as a symbolic, aesthetic and visual element throughout the Zoo, water’s influence as a natural resource will be explored through interpretive signs, labels and graphic enhancements.
The master plan is broken down into three phases, slated to be completed over the next 12 years. The phasing will ensure that the Zoo remains open to the public at all times while renovations are being completed.
The Zoo is currently working to secure the remaining $2 million of the $26 million necessary funding for Phase One
Map of the Future Buffalo Zoo
Phase One Projects $26 Million
Vanishing Animals Exhibit This appealing exhibit opened in 2002 replacing exterior cages connected to the Main Animal Building with six new naturalistic habitats where visitors get intimate looks at a number of rare and endangered species.
The EcoStation This indoor exhibit recreates life in a field research station, giving visitors interactive experiences identifying signs of wildlife, listening for animal sounds and using radio telemetry to track animal movements. Three habitats—scrub forest, desert and rain forest—help visitors understand the impact of disappearing habitats. Additionally, our education department’s Distance Learning Program utilizes the strategically placed video cameras set up inside each of the three habitats, to aid in teaching and allows students across the country to actually see the habitat they’re learning about.
Otter Creek Opened in fall 2004, Otter Creek recreates a moving stream and pond, offering visitors an up-close-and-personal look at these charming New York natives. Otter Creek is also the first exhibit to include underwater viewing and a free-flowing waterfall.
Sea Lion Cove A naturalistic rocky pool that will be home to a group of charismatic, vocal sea lions will greet visitors as they enter the Zoo. This exhibit will highlight the water theme and will be designed so that these large, graceful mammals can be viewed from both above and below the water. Visitors will have an excellent view of the sea lion shows from every angle seated upon the 220 person raised amphitheater.
South American Rainforest Exhibit
More than 130 new animal species will be introduced in this immersive walk-through environment. As the ‘signature’ project of Phase One, the two-story rainforest will maintain a year-round temperature of 75 degrees, making this destination popular—especially in the winter months. The two-story building will enable all visitors to explore this Venezuelan rain forest from a number of dramatic heights and angles.
New Entry Plaza Complex A new semi-circular entry complex will welcome visitors opening off the parking lot at the corner of Parkside Avenue and Jewett Avenue,. The new entrance will connect to the existing parking lot, eliminating the need to walk down Parkside Avenue to get to the gates.
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