This week we step away from the Zoo Director role and view the zoo from a different angle.  Sue Chin, Vice President of Planning and Design and Chief Architect for the Bronx Zoo based Wildlife Conservation Society has her hands full overseeing new projects at all 5 New York City WCS institutions.  But that didn’t stop her from answering a few questions about her 20 year career in the Big Apple and particularly the new snow leopard exhibit at the Central Park Zoo.

Taking a few notes from Bronx’s excellent Himalayan Highlands, as well as input from the esteemed George Schaller (winner of the 2008 Indianapolis Prize), Sue and her staff did their best to re-create the mountainous misty terrain snow leopards are famous for hiding in.  For those, like me, that live too far from NYC to see in person, the internet proves to be a valuable resource.  WCS posted a minute long video of the exhibit on You Tube.

Sue also touches on Bronx’s recently LEED Certified 2008 project Madagascar, the budget crisis which included the World of Darkness closing, and future plans at Brooklyn’s New York Aquarium and Queens Zoo.

It is truly amazing that a city, even one as big as NYC can have 5 zoos!  What’s even better is that each is entirely unique, ensuring that a visit to one borough’s zoo will be as engaging as the next.  That being said, the Bronx is certainly the crown jewel of the city and for many one of the world’s best.  Bronx is definitely one of my favorites, if for no other reason than their exhibit design (thanks to Sue and co.) is extremely conducive for photography.  Glass glare is limited and most exhibits have open views with beautiful backdrops.  Maps for all 5 New York City Zoological Institutions are below, check out for yourself how different they are.

New York Aquarium

Queens Zoo

Prospect Park Zoo (Brooklyn)

Central Park Zoo

Bronx Zoo