NORRISTOWN ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY
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Mission Statement
Elmwood Park Zoo's mission is to foster an appreciation for wildlife and the environment that will inspire an active participation in conservation.
About This Cause
Step through the gates of the Elmwood Park Zoo and meet the steely gaze of a bald eagle. Exhibit signage states how, after coming close to extinction, this American icon rose on its 6-foot wingspan above that threat to become a triumphant symbol of hope for endangered species everywhere. Admiring its neighbor, the golden eagle, you learn that this less-celebrated cousin can take on a grown wolf… and win. At the edge of your peripheral vision, a bighorn raises its head. Your journey of discovery has begun. History and Mission-The Wild Heart of Norristown Elmwood Park Zoo (EPZ) was founded in 1924 when a local farmer deeded his private collection of animals and 16 acres of land to the Borough of Norristown. The Borough owned and operated the zoo until 1965, when it transferred ownership to the Norristown Zoological Society, a non-profit organization whose mission is to foster an appreciation for wildlife and the environment that will inspire active participation in conservation. We are one of only 225 zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), allowing us to house 16 animals that participate in the Species Survival Plan (SSP), and have the country’s second largest open-air bald eagle exhibit. As one of Montgomery County’s leading attractions, we serve 330,000 visitors a year, providing educational services to an additional 40,000 learners both on our grounds and through off-site Zoo-On-Wheels programs. Delight and Educate The Elmwood Park Zoo is open year round, and is one of the most-visited attractions in Montgomery County. As Norristown’s most avid champion of environmental literacy, the community is able to receive some of the most engaging science lessons they will ever know. We maintain an extensive educational collection of both animals and artifacts, constantly seeking additions to enhance the quality and relevance of our curricular offerings. Through outreach, we bring science education to the community at large, to students of all ages and learning abilities, and to vulnerable individuals who otherwise would not have the ability to experience the wonders of zoological learning. Featured Species Currently, the zoo’s approximately 300 animals are indigenous primarily to North, Central, and South America. Two-thirds of this collection is on display, with one-third of the collection dedicated to education. Highlights of our collection include a breeding pair of jaguars, Chacoan peccaries, howler monkeys, and grey wolves. Many EPZ animals represent significant wildlife conservation success stories. Like the bald eagles, our American bison, Peregrine falcons and alligator prove that the actions of individuals can and do save wild animals and their native habitats.