Winter at Ross Park Zoo on Close Up

The animals at Binghamton's Ross Park Zoo don't get put on a shelf for the winter when the season ends.

Speaking on the December 5 edition of the weekly, local public affairs program, Southern Tier Close Up at a special time following Binghamton University basketball, Zoo Director Steve Contento talks about everything that's happed at the Morgan Road facility over the past year and big plans for the zoo's 141st season.

One of the biggest changes has been the departure of the tiger sisters for other zoos to become moms and continued improvement to walks and facilities.

Contento says there will be the addition of new animals next year, the zoo's historic carousel is being renovated and will be moved up the hill to an area near the pavilions and parking areas and events are being lined up to fill the new amphitheater.

Contento also talks about the many challenges facing a non-profit zoo in a northeastern climate on a very hilly site.

The zoo is also looking at ways residents can lend their support, not only with memberships and adopt-an-animal gifts but also by shopping at the zoo store located in the Oakdale Mall.

You can find out more about the Binghamton Zoo at Ross by visiting them on Facebook or at their website, www.rossparkzoo.com.

Southern Tier Close Up will be heard December 5 at around 2:30 p.m. following the basketball game.