Stone Zoo

Stone Zoo. Located in Stoneham, Massachusetts, this 26-acre zoological park is operated by Zoo New England and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It opened in 1905 as a menagerie and has evolved into a modern facility focused on wildlife conservation and education, featuring a diverse collection of animals from across the globe, including species from the Himalayas, South America, and the Australian Outback.

History

The site originated in 1905 as a private menagerie for George F. Parker, a local businessman, before being acquired by the commonwealth and managed by the Metropolitan District Commission. A significant redevelopment in the 1960s introduced new exhibits, but by the 1990s, the zoo faced decline and was nearly closed before being placed under the management of the newly formed Zoo New England in 1991. Major renovations began in the early 2000s, transforming the facility with state-of-the-art habitats like Yukon Creek and the Treasures of the Sierra Madre exhibit, aligning with modern zoological standards set by institutions like the San Diego Zoo and the Bronx Zoo.

Exhibits and animals

The zoo is organized into immersive geographic and thematic zones. The Yukon Creek area features North American wildlife such as the Canadian lynx, bald eagle, and arctic fox, while the Treasures of the Sierra Madre exhibit houses species like the Mexican gray wolf and black-tailed prairie dog. Other notable areas include the Himalayan Highlands, home to the endangered snow leopard and red panda, and the Windows to the Wild complex, which displays animals from South America and Madagascar, such as the white-faced saki and ring-tailed lemur. The zoo also maintains a popular seasonal display, the Christmas Festival of Lights, which has become a regional tradition.

Conservation and education

As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the zoo participates in numerous Species Survival Plan programs for endangered species, including the Mexican gray wolf and the Panamanian golden frog. Educational programming is extensive, offering school field trips, summer camps, and wildlife presentations that often feature animal ambassadors. The zoo collaborates with global conservation organizations like the International Union for Conservation of Nature and supports field projects for species such as the snow leopard in partnership with the Snow Leopard Trust.

Operations and facilities

The zoo is open year-round and is accessible via Interstate 93 and Massachusetts Route 28. General admission is charged, with discounts for members, Stoneham residents, and participants in the EBT card program. On-site amenities include concession stands, a gift shop, and picnic areas. The physical plant and animal care facilities are managed to meet the rigorous standards of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, with a veterinary clinic on site for routine and specialized care.

In popular culture

The zoo has served as a filming location for several projects, most notably appearing in the 2010 film The Company Men starring Ben Affleck and Tommy Lee Jones. Its annual Christmas Festival of Lights has been featured in local media outlets like The Boston Globe and on television stations such as WCVB-TV. The zoo is also a frequent subject for regional photographers and artists, contributing to its recognition within the cultural landscape of New England.

Category:Zoos in Massachusetts Category:Buildings and structures in Middlesex County, Massachusetts Category:Tourist attractions in Greater Boston