Bowmanville Zoo

Bowmanville Zoo, situated in Clarington, Ontario, Canada, held the distinction of being the oldest private zoo in North America until its closure in 2016. Founded in 1919, the zoo was a significant supplier of animals to the U.S. film industry and attracted about 100,000 visitors annually. However, the zoo officially closed its doors on 10 October 2016.

Animal Variety at Bowmanville Zoo

Bowmanville Zoo was renowned for its diverse collection of animals, which included elephants, camels, and tigers. The zoo was a significant supplier of animals to the U.S. film industry. Notably, the zoo once housed seven elephants, both African and Asian. The zoo also participated in breeding programs for endangered species and accepted retired circus animals.

Future of the Former Zoo Property

The property that once housed the Bowmanville Zoo reopened in 2017 as the Clarington Family Outdoor Adventure Park. The park still features lions and some staff from the previous operations. Current plans are underway to transform the property into a large municipal park, offering a new chapter in the site's history.