Bramble Park Zoo in Watertown, South Dakota

Bramble Park Zoo was opened in 1912, when the Watertown, South Dakota City Council accepted and exhibited a collection of pheasants and waterfowl donated by Frank Bramble. In 1940, the collection outgrew its original home and was then moved to its current location. The Works Progress Administration constructed new exhibit areas which formed the nucleus of Bramble Park Zoo. Over the years, the collection of animals expanded to include native species, as well as more exotic species like primates and hoofed animals.

Between the years 1972-1976, the zoo experienced major renovations and further growth, both internally and externally. Through donations and community volunteer work, numerous exhibits and support buildings were constructed, as well as improvements being made to the outlying landscape and view areas. These improvements led to the zoo receiving accreditation by the Association for Zoos and Aquariums in 1993. The Bramble Park Zoo has continued to make further advancements, hired a professional staff, developed educational programs and participates in conservation and the Species Survival Program. The most poignant improvement made to the zoo has been the addition of a Discovery Center, constructed in 1998.

Today, the Bramble Park Zoo welcomes more than 50,000 visitors annually, and is home to more than 500 animals which represent 130 species. The zoo is owned and operated by the City of Watertown and consists of 15-acres devoted to animal preservation and visitor education. Bramble Park Zoo offers many different events and programs throughout the year, and invites visitors to come see the animals and participate in many fun filled activities.

Some of the animals found at the zoo include hedge hogs, kangaroos, Bactrian camels, bison, eagles, condors, goats, bears and many others. Exhibits showcase animals in a natural habitat and invite viewers to get an up-close view of some very unique wildlife. Jaguar Junction is home to a large family of Jaguars roaming freely in a specially designed habitat. The Bird of Prey Plaza is another phenomenal exhibit that features rehabilitated birds of prey that perform tricks and flying fetes in daily shows at the zoo. There are many more exhibit areas, each with its own special brand of appeal and charm.

An especially interesting activity at the zoo is the Roots and Shoots environmental and humanitarian program for youths. The program is sponsored by the Jane Goodall Institute, and features learning projects centered on care and concern for animals, the human community and the environment. The mission of the program is to imbibe young visitors with the desire to preserve the environment and animal conservation on a regional scale.

The Bramble Park Zoo is opened during the summer season from 9 am until 8 pm, and during the winter season from 10 am until 4 pm. Special tours can be arranged for groups by contacting the Bramble Park Zoo prior to visiting. The zoo also features a restaurant, gift shop, a train, educational programs in an interactive classroom environment and much more, making it the perfect place to visit and learn all about the wonderful world of animals.