Popcorn Park Zoo in Forked River, New Jersey [Zoo - Wildlife Animals]

Popcorn Park Zoo was established in 1977 for the sole purpose of providing a refuge for wildlife that were sick, elderly, abandoned, abused, or injured, and which could no longer survive in its natural habitat. As time went on, we expanded to include exotic and domestic animals. All our residents once faced these circumstances, as well as exploitation and illegal ownership. Over 200 of these animals and birds now live in spacious surroundings in the heart of the scenic Pine Barrens in southern New Jersey.

When you visit the zoo, you may be greeted at the gate by a gaggle of geese, but soon you will see a marvelous array of animals including African lions, tigers, mountain lions, a camel, emus, rheas, muntjacs, Australian wallabies and more. Many different types of monkeys clamor for your attention in the monkey house, and the Zoo abounds with all kinds of native wildlife such as white-tailed and fallow deer, bobcats, an American black bear, and a raccoon. Farm animals such as horses, steer, sheep, pigs and goats often look for a handout, and reptiles and tortoises enjoy their own special house. In addition, you’ll find numerous species of birds have made themselves comfortable throughout the zoo.

But what makes Popcorn Park so special is that each animal was rescued from suffering, exploitation and/or death – each has its own unique story to tell. You will learn these stories as you walk through the Zoo and as you visit our web site. You have entered a world where all the residents were once in danger and now are safe. So start your journey – bring your curiosity and respect for these beautiful creatures.

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School Groups Grades 1 to 12

School Groups All Ages and Grades

Humane Education is an important key to the well-being of our society.  Understanding animals and their needs and kindness to animals is a cornerstone in the development of empathy in children. Understanding that animals are a living, breathing and integral part of the web of life, and should be respected accordingly is a valuable gift.  To that end, the more we can all know about the magnificent creatures that share this planet with us, the more stable and whole the world can be. In this regard, humane education is an important component.

Currently, the Society’s focus for humane education is in Ocean and Monmouth Counties. Ranger Dave (Sharpe) holds both classes and tours at Popcorn Park Zoo and our Forked River Animal Care Center, and provides education `in the field’ at local service organizations, schools, churches, etc. in the area. If you are interested in a guest speaker or in coming to the zoo to learn more, contact Ranger Dave at our Forked River facility at (609) 693-1900.

TOURS

The Society offers tours of Popcorn Park Zoo by appointment for many groups, be it school children, service organizations or others.  Please contact our Forked River facility if you are interested in scheduling a tour.  Take the time to watch our virtual tour of Popcorn Park below, and see for yourself how beautiful our zoo is.

Above right is a hawk enclosure surrounded by a pond for the waterfowl, complete with a waterfall.Below and left is the entrance to our Reptile House. And below, right is the entrance to the Zoo itself.