Habitat | Turtle Back Zoo

SKIP TO MAIN CONTENT

About Us
- Top Header
  - Our Story
    In 1962 the Essex County Park Commission, headed by ...
    Read More
    
    Join Our Team
    Do You See Yourself Working In A Fun-Filled, Wild Environment?
    Read More
    
    Contact Us
    Reach out for inquiries, assistance, or collaboration
    Read More
- The Zoological Society of NJ
Visit
- Top Header
  - Plan Your Trip
    With over 130 animal species to find, here's what you need to know to have an awesome day with us starting from the parking lot through your top stops and the breaks in between!
    Learn More
- Visit
- Know before you go
Things to Do
- Attractions
- Animal Experiences
- Events
  - Upcoming Events
    - Summer Camp Open House
    - View All
- Departing from Turtle Back Junction, the zoo’s miniature train ride takes visitors through the beautiful South Mountain Reservation. The train is a perfect way to cool down on a hot day. The train departs approximately every 15 minutes from the station, and is wheelchair accessible.
  View All Attractions
Animals
- Top Header
  - Animals
    Explore the wild wonders of Turtle Back Zoo, where each animal tells a unique story of nature and conservation. Journey through diverse habitats and meet the incredible creatures that call Turtle Back Zoo home, from majestic big cats to playful primates—discover the beauty and strength of wildlife up close.
    View Animals
- Habitats
- Conservation
Learn
- Top Header
  - Programs
    From classroom programs to homeschool classes, sloth breakfasts and behind-the-scenes tours, our Education Department offers a variety of ways to enhance your zoo experience.
    View Programs
- Top Header
- Top Header
Explore
- Top Header
  - Explore
    Expand your day trip outside the zoo. Add on adventure, discovery and cocktails around the South Mountain Recreation Complex.
    View Explore
- Top Header

Membership Donate Ticket

20250308_095901

Immerse yourself into the world of reptiles & amphibians.

REPTILE HOUSE

20250308_091841

Lions, hyenas, penguins, giraffe and ostrich!

AFRICAN ADVENTURE

20250312_121002

All of the world is connected through water.

WORLD OF WATER

20250308_095813

Hands-on learning awaits!

TOUCH TANK

Habitats At The Zoo

Conservation

Conservation can be done locally as well as extend to the habitats our zoo animals live in around the world.

LEARN MORE