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When the Bronx Zoo first opened its doors on November 8, 1899, the public poured in to see exotic wild animals such as orangutans and egrets. Created on an undreamed-of scale, the zoo spread across 265 acres of Bronx wilderness, just north of the island of Manhattan. It was hailed as the greatest zoo in the world with a collection of 843 animals, representing 157 species. Today, the Bronx Zoo ... More

When the Bronx Zoo first opened its doors on November 8, 1899, the public poured in to see exotic wild animals such as orangutans and egrets. Created on an undreamed-of scale, the zoo spread across 265 acres of Bronx wilderness, just north of the island of Manhattan. It was hailed as the greatest zoo in the world with a collection of 843 animals, representing 157 species. Today, the Bronx Zoo -- now run by the Wildlife Conservation Society -- is renowned as much for its aggressive approach to animal breeding and preservation as for its amusement of visitors.

Taking readers behind the scenes, zoo staffers tell stories about the animals they work with, from the amazing recapture of an escaped python to the nasty court battle for one of the country's most lovable gorillas. Readers will meet Choo Choo the owl with no wings; black bears named Archie, Jughead, Betty, and Veronica; and a whole colony of naked mole rats. From one amazing animal story to the next, this captivating collection is full of remarkable facts and behind-the-scenes activity. Join us as naturalist author Edward R. Ricciuti celebrates this bevy of beasts and those dedicated individuals who care for them.