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Featuring animals from the Pampas region of Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil, the new exhibit is considered Phase 1 of the zoo's South American Adventure exhibit.
It is part of the zoo's Master Plan to exhibit South American species and is funded in part by private donations as well as funding from the Connecticut Zoological Society with support from the City of Bridgeport.
"We couldn't be happier to break ground on this expansion but what's most exciting is that we will be one of only a handful of zoos in the United States to exhibit Vicuña, the smallest South American relative of the camel and llama," said Gregg Dancho, zoo director.
In addition to Vicuña and giant anteaters, the new Pampas Plains South American exhibit will feature Chacoan peccaries and Greater rhea, as well as plants and grasses native to the South American region.
A raised walkway is planned, which will offer panoramic views as well as a glimpse into the animals' distinctive habitats. Throughout the exhibit artifact nooks and discovery boxes will create new opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in this wild experience.
"We're so proud to be home to Connecticut's only zoo," said Finch. "I've spent many an afternoon there with my sons and seen so many kids' in awe at all the animals and exhibits. And there always is a staff member ready to tell you anything you want to know about every one of them."
Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Adult admission (ages 12 & older) is $14, children (ages 3 -11) and senior admission (62 and older) is $10, and children under 3 years old are free. Zoo members also are admitted free.
Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo is located at 1875 Noble Ave. in Bridgeport. .
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