PUBLISHED FOR FRIENDS OF ROGER WILLIAMS PARK ZOO
Welcome!
By Stacey Johnson Executive Director, RWP Zoo and RI Zoological Society
As the last of the winter’s snow melts away and the flowers begin to bloom, the Zoo breathes new life in the spring. Whether it’s new baby animals or the first Del’s lemonade of the season, yes, Del’s will be back at the Zoo this year, and a trip to Roger Williams Park Zoo at this time of year is always special.
Return of the Dinosaurs comes roaring into Roger Williams Park Zoo this spring. Have these prehistoric creatures been lurking in the Zoo’s wetlands, or have they returned from extinction? If you think you know what to expect from this adventure, you are partially correct. Some predictable characters from your favorite silver screen dino epics are back in all their glory, along with additional prehistoric creatures that may be familiar only to the more discerning amateur paleontologists. This journey back in time follows a new path and will immerse you in a world filled with clever surprises around every turn. There’s only one way to find
And more big news…. in small packages: penguins will return to the Zoo this summer. More specifically, a dozen Humboldt penguins will be arriving soon. Most people imagine cold climates when they think of penguins, but our Humboldt penguins are from the warm coastal regions of Chile and Peru. Believe it or not, their wide geographic range stretches more than 2,800 miles from Patagonia, north of Cape Horn, to within a
few hundred miles of the equator! Cold Pacific Ocean currents carry nutrients to the surface from the deep, supporting a complex food web that includes penguins and the fish they feed on while ‘flying’ through the chilly waters. On shore, though, Humboldt penguins prefer temperatures well above freezing, and at the Zoo, we will make sure they stay comfortably warm enough all year.
Roger Williams Park Zoo last had penguins in 2013, and as a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan®, we will be one of only 24 facilities in North America to care for this species. Bringing this remarkable species to you is one more way we share the wonders of the natural world while helping conserve wildlife and wild places.
Check our website or follow us on social media for Penguin Point’s opening date. Construction is nearly complete, and once it is open, you will want to plan your Zoo visit to enjoy watching them hang out on the beach or catch a feeding demonstration narrated by one of our Wildlife Interpreters.
No matter which way you turn this spring, visiting your Zoo will certainly provide smiles and more than a few “Gee, whiz!” moments. We will be here waiting to see you, so c’mon out!
Upcoming Events at the Zoo & Carousel
APRIL
•CAROUSEL HOURS:
Weekdays 12pm to 6pm / Weekends 11am to 6pm
•5th - Free Saturday
•6th - Return of the Dinosaurs Opens
•12th - Photos with the Easter Bunny at Carousel Village
•12th - Elephant Breakfast
•13th - Photos with the Easter Bunny at Carousel Village
•14th to 18th - Zoo Camp
•18th - Photos with the Easter Bunny at Carousel Village
•18th - Food Truck Friday KickOff at Carousel Village
•19th - Photos with the Easter Bunny at Carousel Village
•16th to 17th - Party for the Planet
•25th - Food Truck Friday at Carousel Village
•27th - Early open SensoryFriendly experience for Return of the Dinosaurs (8-9 AM)
MAY
CAROUSEL HOURS:
Weekdays 12pm to 6pm/ Weekends 11am to 6pm
•1st to 31st - Return of the Dinosaurs
•2nd - Food Truck Friday at Carousel Village
•3rd - Free Saturday
•9th - Food Truck Friday at Carousel Village
•11th - Mother’s Day (free admission for Mom’s)
•15th - Whiskey for Wildlife
•16th - Food Truck Friday at Carousel Village
•17th - Endangered Species Day
•23rd - Food Truck Friday at Carousel Village
•24th - Breakfast with the Elephants
•30th - Food Truck Friday at Carousel Village
ZOO HOURS: 9am to 4pm
(Spring hours start April 1st) Visit rwpzoo.org for more info
JUNE
CAROUSEL HOURS: Weekdays 12pm to 6pm/ Weekends 11am to 6pm
•1st to 30th - Return of the Dinosaurs
•6th - Food Truck Friday at Carousel Village
•7th - Free Saturday
•7th - Yoga with Elephants
•8th - World Oceans Day
•13th - Food Truck Friday at Carousel Village
•14th - Return of the Dinosaurs Family Night
•15th - Father’s Day (free admission for dads)
•20th - Food Truck Friday at Carousel Village
•21st - World Giraffe Day
•22nd - Breakfast with the Elephants
•27th - Food Truck Friday at Carousel Village
•28th - Zoobilee: Party with a Purpose
dinosaurs are back!
Sightings of these prehistoric giants have been reported in the wetlands at Roger Williams Park Zoo. Have these ancient creatures taken up residence once more, or have they been lurking undetected for the past 65 million years?
From April 6th through August 10th, guests are invited to journey back to the Jurassic era and embark on an unforgettable adventure in the Zoo’s latest exhibit, Return of the Dinosaurs, where they can step beyond the safety of the Zoo’s familiar paths and venture into uncharted, wild territory, where colossal brachiosaurs tower overhead, velociraptors stalk through the brush, and a fearsome T.Rex awaits to greet the boldest explorers. Among the nearly 60 life-sized animatronic creatures are 25 that have only recently been
Follow in the footsteps of Zoo staff who have scouted ahead to uncover the secrets of these fascinating creatures. Discover how scientific understanding of dinosaurs has evolved over time—from groundbreaking research in paleontology to their enduring legacy in popular culture. Whether you’re a lifelong dinosaur enthusiast or a curious adventurer, Return of the Dinosaurs offers an unforgettable, immersive experience for guests of all ages.
Get ready for an adventure where history’s most awe-inspiring creatures are just a step away! Danger, discovery, and dinosaurs await at Roger Williams Park Zoo’s Return of the Dinosaurs!
Other Dinosaur related events include:
ensory Mornings –il 27, July 6
Special sensory-friendly mornings an hour before the trail opens to the public: designed for those with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and sensory processing differences and their families from 8-9 am. (Zoo will open at 9 am)
Dinosaur Family nights –June 14, august 9
Families can journey back in time and enjoy an evening at the Zoo from 5-9 pm.
We’re making Waves
We’re getting ready to welcome Humboldt penguins to the Zoo.
The Zoo is in the process of renovating our former seal pool, which is where the penguins will eventually take up residence. We expect the habitat to open early summer 2025!
Follow us at rwpzoo.org/animals/penguin/ or on social media for updates and an opening date.
Meet the Frogs of Rhode Island
Rhode Island is home to seven frog and three toad species, each with unique characteristics and habitat preferences. From the early spring calls of Spring Peepers to the summer serenades of Green Frogs and Bullfrogs, each species plays a vital role in our ecosystem. Some species, like the elusive Eastern Spadefoot, require specific conditions, like heavy rain, to breed. A local FrogWatch observation in 2024 suggested potential new Spadefoot populations, highlighting the importance of this program in discovering and protecting rare species!
Gray Tree Frog
Eastern American Toad
Green Frog
Eastern Spadefoot Toad
American Bullfrog
Northern Leopard Frog Pickerel Frog
Wood Frog
Spring Peeper
Fowler’s Toad
April 26th marks International Flamingo Day, a vibrant celebration of one of nature’s most iconic birds. Here at Roger Williams Park Zoo, we’re home to our resident Chilean flamingos native to South America.
Did you know there are six flamingo species worldwide? Our Chilean flamingos, share their Andean Highland habitat with the Andean and Puna (James’s) flamingos. Sadly, these Andean Highland species face increasing threats, primarily habitat loss and hunting, leading to their “near threatened” status.
The culprit? Our very own technology. Lithium, essential for powering our smartphones and devices, is mined from the wetland habitat (salars) these flamingos call home.
Make the Pledge!
We invite you to join us in protecting these remarkable birds this International Flamingo Day. By pledging to extend the lifespan of your electronic devices, you can directly reduce
the demand for new lithium mining, safeguarding the flamingos’ fragile ecosystem.
Roger Williams Park Zoo is a proud partner with the SAFE Andean Highland Flamingo program and supports the recovery and conservation of Andean, Chilean, and Puna (James’s) flamingos through research, public engagement, training, community outreach, and education.
Marvels of Adaptation
Beyond their iconic pink plumage, these birds possess remarkable adaptations. Chilean flamingos can tolerate a variety of extreme temperatures, efficiently filter food through their specialized beaks, are powerful swimmers and even undertake impressive flights of nearly 400 miles in a single night.
Fun Facts to Ponder:
• Notice those bright pink “ankles” (not knees!) that distinguish them from their grey legs.
• Their unique shallow-keeled bill, equipped with coarse bristles (lamellae), filters out tiny food particles from the water.
• They get their pink coloring from carotenoid pigment consumed through their food.
• They inhabit coastal and marine wetlands as well as high mountain lakes.
Membership Team!
Meet the RosarioElaineJustine
Have you ever wondered who’s behind the scenes making sure your RWPZoo membership is as wild as your adventures here? Let us introduce you to our incredible membership team: Justine, Rosario, and Elaine! Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time member, they’re here to make sure your experience is top-notch. Since they’re always ready to help answer any questions you might have, we decided to ask them a few questions!
Meet Justine, Member Services
Assistant Manager:
If you could have any RWPZoo animal as a sidekick for the day, who would it be and why?
A red panda. They’re cute, fluffy, and have just the right amount of chaos in them to keep things interesting.
Do you have a favorite animal at the Zoo, and if so, why?
It’s hard to choose just one favorite, but I’d say the sloths. Why? Because they’re living the dream. Who wouldn’t want to spend the day lounging in a tropical paradise while being served fruits and veggies? They’ve truly mastered the art of relaxation.
What’s your go-to comfort food or favorite snack during a busy workday?
My go-to comfort food during a busy workday is always a BBQ beef bánh mì from Asian Bakery in Providence.
Meet Rosario, Membership
Data Assistant:
If you could have any RWPZoo animal as a sidekick for the day, who would it be and why?
The (moon) bear will keep me warm and hopefully doesn’t squish me.
Do you have a favorite animal at the Zoo, and if so, why?
Giraffes. They are awesome - they run with such ease and grace. They’re, for the most part, very friendly.
What’s one tip you’d share with members or guests about making the most of their RWPZoo membership?
Discounts on events, programs, and gift shop purchases. Also to take advantage of the reciprocal programs.
Meet Elaine, Member Services
Representative:
If you could have any RWPZoo animal as a sidekick for the day, who would it be and why?
My sidekick would be an alpaca. They are gentle & adorable animals. I’ve read that they are loving and drama-free, which is what we all need in this world.
What’s one of your favorite hidden gems at the Zoo that members should check out?
“Blue Chicken” is my favorite hidden gem. It’s always a delight to see the free-roaming peacock strolling through the Zoo.
What’s one tip you’d share with members or guests about making the most of their Zoo membership?
The Zoo is a wonderful place to visit no matter the season. It’s a safe place to walk and get your steps in while you visit with the animals, or you can simply find a quiet space to relax and enjoy the peace and beauty of the Zoo. With a membership, you can visit every day and enjoy the changing seasons.
Next time you’re at the Zoo, stop by the membership office (located just inside the Main gate) and say hello to Justine, Rosario, and Elaine! Whether you’re looking to level up your membership or learn more about your benefits, they’re always happy to help. The membership office is open Monday through Saturday, so swing by whenever it’s convenient for you—we can’t wait to see you!
Kids’ Corner Kids’ Corner
Earth Day Salt Dough Craft
STEP 1: Combine all the dry ingredients in a bowl and form a well in the center.
STEP 2: Add the warm water to the dry ingredients and mix together until it forms a dough.
NOTE: If you notice the salt dough looks a little runny, you might be tempted to add more flour. Before you do this, allow the mixture to rest for a few moments! That will give the salt a chance to absorb the extra moisture.
STEP 3: Roll the dough to ¼ inch thick or so and cut out large circle shapes for your earth.
STEP 4: Use a bread knife or a fork to make an outline on the circle for land and ocean.
STEP 5: Use a straw to make a hole in the top of each ornament. Place on a tray and leave for 24 to 48 hours to air dry.
STEP 6: Once dry, paint your salt dough Earth.
STEP 7: Finish up by threading a piece of string through the hole in the ornament. Now you have a cute salt dough Earth to hang up or wear as a necklace.
Supplies:
2 cups all-purpose bleached flour
1 cup of salt
1 cup of warm water
Paint and a paintbrush
String
Earth Day Riddles
What has roots that nobody sees, is taller than trees, goes up and up, but never grows?
I have a heart that doesn’t beat and a bed but never sleep. I can run, but I never walk. What am I?
Roger Williams Park Zoo is supported and managed by the Rhode Island Zoological Society and is owned by the City of Providence
Editorial
Roger Williams Park Zoo Department of
Marketing and Public Relations
Corrie Ignagni
Vicki Scharfberg
Maxine Colvin
Designer
Sara Beatrice Tandem Designworks
Photo Credits
Roger Williams Park Zoo
WILD is an online publication of the Rhode Island Zoological Society, Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, Rhode Island 02907-3659
For membership information call (401) 785-3510 x375 or visit rwpzoo.org.
2025 RHODE ISLAND ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Officers
Patrick T. LeBeau, CFP,® Chair
Sandra L. Coletta, Vice Chair
Margaret Ferguson, Secretary
Maribeth Q. Williamson, Treasurer
Board of Trustees
Nancy Allen
Martha Bower
Douglas Caniglia
Claire Carrabba, Esq
Cheryl Cohen
Sarah Denby
Samir Dhamija
Cindy Erickson
Pamela W. Heffernan
John Igliozzi, Esq
Howard Merten, Esq
Damaris Messina
John H. Mullen
Jack Murray
Steven M. Parente
Karen Silva EdD, CHE
Dameian Slocum, Ed.D.
Ex-Officio
Stacey Johnson
Executive Director
Rhode Island Zoological Society/
Roger Williams Park Zoo
Wendy Nilsson
Superintendent of Parks
Providence Parks Department
Chair Emerita
Sophie F. Danforth*
Trustees Emeriti
Margaret E. Curran, Esq.
Thomas P. Dimeo*
Jocelin Hamblett
James S. Harper III, VMD*
Bradford B. Kopp
Arthur D. Little
Liz Rollins Mauran
Nancy G.R. Moger
Richard Nadeau
Jane S. Nelson
John J. Palumbo
Cate M. Roberts
Philip A. Segal, Jr.
Robert F. Stoico
*deceased
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