Bronx Zoo Review by Fredrbis

Zoos Through The Eyes Of Photographers

Name of Zoo: 

Date of visit: 

Location: 

My Review 

This zoo is the show-place zoo of one of the best conservation societies in America and the world. While research is a fundamental part of its mission, maintaining the zoo is also vital - and it is reflected in a continuing effort to remove or reduce evidence of enclosures. As a result many species can be seen without the inter-mediation of bars. Sometimes this means there is only air between you and your subject; sometimes Plexiglas or glass - which may be reflective or greasy with nose and fingerprints. (The trade-off with non-classical enclosures is that sometimes you will not see the animal at all, or see it only from a distance.) Some traditional cages remain. And many larger animals are no longer being taken into zoos and may be difficult to see at all, anywhere. Finally, many animals can be seen only in pseudo-native habitats so, for example, aardvarks may be seen only in the dark - and I for one will not blind them with attempted flash shots; I don't need that trophy.

Even some birds are available in open environments (and peacocks freely stroll the grounds) See: http://fredcohenphotography.weebly.com/birds.html (most but not all are from the Bronx Zoo). Nonetheless, some glorious birds there will apparently be forever seen through bars.

So - not all is ideal for the animals or photographers - but, with patience and a decent telephoto, you can capture remarkable shots of many fascinating species. See: http://fredcohenphotography.weebly.com/animals.html (most but not all shots here are from the Bronx Zoo).

Despite some frustrations, I find I return often to the zoo. The subjects are necessarily patient while you learn about and fumble with your equipment. And I frequently talk to the docents both to be friendly and to learn about the animals. The more you know about the animals, the better able you are to anticipate their actions or developments and capture great pictures. All things considered, the Bronx zoo presents great opportunities for picture taking.

Some relevant suggestions: (i) go early before the school buses show up so you can get unimpeded access to good viewing areas; (ii) use a polarizing filter to reduce reflections off of glass; (iii) use the web site to know about new babies and feeding times; (iv) take advantage of their educational talks when animals are often brought into the air by professional handlers.

4 Stars reflects the residue of wire cages in an otherwise spectacular zoo.

Types of cages at the zoo 

mixed enclosures of all types; many open ranges with mixed species.

Animal Environments 

Many natural environments, but not universally.

Health and Activity of the Animals 

The animals seem universally healthy; only the polar bear seems a bit lethargic (which I, perhaps ignorantly, attribute to isolation)

Is the staff friendly to photographers? 

Would you recommend this to a friend?