Central Park Zoo

Someone told me
It's all happening at the zoo.

I do believe it,
I do believe it's true.

 - Simon & Garfunkel

There was lots happening at the zoo during our recent trip, last Sunday. From the Sea Lions to the Snow Monkeys, to the Penguins to the Polar Bear, something was going on 'round every turn.

The Tropic Zone, filled with bats, boas, bird and some small (and adorable) monkeys was interactive, immersive and most memorable. As if you were plunked down in a rainforest - right in the middle of Manhattan - guests were privy to bird calls and peeks at what goes on, way up in the trees.

I loved watching this little guy and found myself most fascinated with it's human-like expressions, movements and gestures. It really is remarkable how we're attracted to things in likeness of ourselves. 
 

And here's a "regal" shot of the money, in pose. 

My husband's new Sony camera (he's an employee of the company for full disclosure) took some amazing shots and the Tropical zone was ripe with options. 

This little Victoria Crowned Pigeon, below, escaped from the trees and was showing off in front of an interested (and photo hungry) crowd.

Next up was the leaping Lemur, which was a little subdued at first (it seemed to be nap time for many of the animals). Once he knew there was a crowd, he started up with some entertaining gymnastics.

Moving across the "earth," we were on to The Polar Circle, which had, as you may guess, the ginormous Polar Bear. While it had a nice home, we noticed it was doing a repetitive swim back and forth and back and forth. It seemed that it needed more stimulation and I felt a bit badly for the big teddy.

I was fascinated with some of the facts about the bears. According to their informative sign, Polar Bears have a lot of physical features that help guard against the icy winds and frozen landscape of their home.

In fact:
- Hollow hairs prevent their fur from matting when wet
- A layer of insulating blubber (up to 4.5 inches thick) helps to keep them warm
- Tiny ears help prevent heat loss
- A single bear can consume more then 100 pounds in a meal

We also got to see a flock of ducks have a total freak out, splashing and crazing about (something I got quite a kick out of).

And we visited the Red Pandas (more closely related to raccoons), who were taking a nap. Also cat napping was Zoe, the Snow Leopard.

Despite the naps, it was a wonderful day at the zoo, a great date-day with my husband and informative, to boot!