PECO Primate Reserve - As you approach PECO Primate Reserve, imagine for a minute that a group of primate conservationists have taken up residence in an abandoned timber mill to help save primates from around the world.
All over the two-and-a-half acres of indoor and outdoor exhibits, you’ll hear the stories of real people who dedicate their lives to saving some of the world’s most endangered primate and see orangutans, gorillas, gibbons and more.
As you approach PECO Primate Reserve, imagine for a minute that a group of primate conservationists have taken up residence in an abandoned timber mill to help save primates from around the world. All over the2.5 acres of indoor and outdoor exhibits, you'll hear the stories of real people who dedicate their lives to saving some of the world's most endangered primates. Come closer and learn what the scientists are doing and how you can help, too.
Be sure to keep an eye out for great attractions and programs during your visit. Keeper talks and primate training demonstrations are performed in and around the building throughout the day. Check the daily map for times and meeting locations. Throughout the day, primate interpreters are on hand to assist you. Feel free to ask them questions about the animals you see.
About the Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo, located in the Centennial District of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on the west bank of the Schuylkill River, was the first zoo in the United States. Chartered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on March 21, 1859, its opening was delayed by the American Civil War until July 1, 1874. It opened with 1,000 animals and an admission price of 25 cents. For a brief time, the zoo also housed animals brought over from safari on behalf of the Smithsonian Institution, which had not yet built the National Zoo in the 1850s.
The Philadelphia Zoo is one of the premier zoos in the world for breeding animals that have been found difficult to breed in captivity. The zoo also works with many groups around the world to protect the natural habitats of the animals in their care.
The zoo is 42 acres (17 ha) and is home to more than 1,300 animals, many of which are rare and endangered. The zoo features a children's zoo, a paddleboat lake, a rainforest themed carousel, and many interactive and educational exhibits.
