LYCOS RETRIEVER 
John Ball: John Ball Zoo
built 647 days ago
Boasting nearly 1200 animal residents, John Ball Zoo is a 140-acre park located not far from downtown. The zoo traces its roots to 1884, when New Hampshire native John Ball bequeathed 40 acres of land to the city. Civic leaders helped turn the parcel into a large public park, and as the years went by, citizens donated animals to it, eventually resulting in the founding of the zoo. Today, among the zoo's exhibits are Living Shores Aquarium, Mokomoboso Valley Chimpanzee Exhibit, African Forest Edge Exhibit, and Bald Eagle Aviary.
Source:
In 1884, John Ball died and left Grand Rapids 40 acres of land for the purpose of recreation. The first zoo began in the 1890's with animals and an addition of 100 more acres. The Zoo declined during the Great Depression but was revived in 1949 by private citizens, led by Kay Whinery, in conjunction with the city's support. In 1974, a volunteer program was established to provide educational opportunities to the zoo visitors and the community. In 1983, the Zoo became the first Michigan zoo to be nationally accredited by the AAZPA (now the AZA). Kent County assumed ownership of the Zoo in 1989, and continues the development and renovation of the facility.
Source:
John Ball Zoo exhibits animals from North America, Asia, Africa and South America including penguins, reptiles, amphibians, nocturnal animals and fish. Over 225 species of animals and 1170 specimens ranging in size from lions, tigers, and bongos, to tiny marmoset monkeys and arrow poison frogs, reside at the zoo. Educational materials such as self-guided tours & scavenger hunts available upon request. Special programs, which include live animal presentations, are available for an additional charge with a reservation (subject to availability).
Source:
John Ball Zoo is located on the west side of Grand Rapids, on the corner of Fulton Street and Valley. From downtown, take Fulton street west to Valley. There's easy access off of westbound 196 from Grandville/Jenison area at exit. . . (more)
Source:
MORE ABOUT
John Ball Zoo