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Who are the Friends of the Bergen County Zoo?
The Friends of the Bergen County Zoo is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is dedicated to providing financial support to the Bergen County Zoological Park for the welfare of its animals, educational programs and family-friendly facilities. It is the generous support of our sponsors, donors, members and zoo visitors that allow us to meet this mission.
The Friends of the Zoo is honored to partner with Bergen County to support this beautiful zoo for the
educational and recreational enjoyment of the citizens and visitors of Bergen County.
2023 Friends of the Zoo Board of Directors
Co-Chair
Brian DeSimone
Co-Chair
Arielle Miliambro
Vice-Chair
Meg Tedeschi
Secretary
Elisa Wares
Zoo Director
Mari Vella
Treasurer
Jairus Marcella
Russ Holmgren
Fran Zak
Luther Jones
Neil Devincenzo
Sean Sanders
Tammy Levinson
What is the Bergen County Zoo?
The Bergen County Zoo is a “New World” zoo, exhibiting wildlife from North and South America. You have the unique opportunity to view such rare and unusual species as Baird’s Tapir, Andean Condor, American Alligator, Golden Lion Tamarin, and many others.
The Bergen County Zoo provides a clean, aesthetically-pleasing facility that meets or exceeds the physical, environmental, and behavioral needs of the animals in its care. The goal of the zoo is to develop and maintain exhibits which emphasize natural behavior, encourage longevity, and promote breeding success.
Our AZA accredited zoo actively participates in wildlife conservation endeavors through captive breeding programs and research projects and supports conservation efforts throughout the world. The zoo provides a unique and effective educational experience that fosters an appreciation for the interrelationships between the animals and their environments. It provides an enjoyable recreational experience for the residents and visitors of Bergen County.
The Bergen County Zoo was the first zoo in New Jersey to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Being part of AZA demands high standards that ensure we are properly taking care of our animals and facility. The Bergen County Zoo was last accredited in 2018 and will reapply in 2023
Being part of the prestige association will allow our member's to receive discounted or free admission to other zoo's and aquariums. It is best to call ahead to ensure they are accepting our membership at the time.