Conservation is the cornerstone of our mission and is integral to everything we do. The Penguin Coast habitat features an energy-efficient geothermal system that helps heat and cool the penguin pool and building throughout the year while reducing environmental impact. These green energy measures contribute to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 85% by 2050.

Since the beginning of the 20th century, African penguin populations have declined by approximately 90%. Currently, mitigating the negative impacts of climate change is critically important to the future survival of this endangered species. As global warming continues to shift the marine and atmospheric environments, African penguins are being affected by habitat loss and lack of prey availability.

As part of Zoo New England’s impactful and rapidly growing international field conservation program, we join forces with other institutions accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, as well as partners in southern Africa, to help protect and recover African penguins.

The expansive African Penguin Coast habitat includes a glass-fronted view above and below the water of the exhibit pool, giving guests a front-row seat to observe the natural behavior of these charismatic birds. Children are invited to climb aboard a life-size penguin rescue boat replica where they will have hands-on opportunities to play and learn about how scientists are helping penguins survive and thrive in the wild.

The expanded Serengeti Crossing, a multi-species habitat home to Hartmann’s mountain zebras, white-bearded wildebeests and ostriches, has undergone a transformation that included dramatic expansion of the former habitat and replacement of fencing with unobstructed viewing. Accompanying graphics focus on the importance of healthy ecosystems and the critical role each of these species, as well as humans, plays within it.