Zoo Etiquette

Animals have feelings, too.  Please do not throw objects, tap or bang on exhibit glass or play radios in the Zoo.

Our keepers prepare special meals for all of the animals. Please do not share your food with them.

There are many beautiful things growing throughout our Zoo.  Help us keep them alive for all to enjoy by not climbing the trees, picking flowers or disturbing the landscape.  We also ask that you refrain from climbing the rocks.

Please respect the fences throughout the Zoo, as they are for the safety and protection of both our guests and our animals.

If someone is acting inappropriately or dangerously, they may be escorted from the Zoo.  If you see someone acting in this manner, please contact a member of the staff immediately.

You may not see every animal listed when you visit the Zoo, and their locations are subject to change. The Zoo does not issue rain checks or refunds, but please come back and visit us soon.

Photography Policy

We welcome you to take photographs and video of your experience at the Zoo for personal use. If you intend on taking photographs for professional or commercial use, please contact our public relations department at (315) 435-8511 x110.

Smoking Policy

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo is a tobacco-free Zoo. For the safety of our visitors and the animals, the Zoo does not permit smoking, or the use of any other tobacco products in Zoo buildings or on Zoo grounds.

Pet Policy

Pets are not permitted on Zoo grounds, in the parking lot, or in cars.

Section 359, Article 26 of the Agriculture and Markets law states, "A person who carries or causes to be carried in or upon any vessel or vehicle or otherwise, any animal in a cruel manner is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail or fine up to one thousand dollars, or both."

Do NOT leave any animal in your vehicle.  Should an animal be discovered in your vehicle, the proper authorities will be notified.

For the health of our animals, only certified service animals are permitted to visit the Zoo. If you bring your dog along for the ride, let him have some fun at one of these animal day cares conveniently located nearby:

Happy At Home Pet Service

Bark Avenue Doggy Day Care & Grooming Shop        

Onondaga Hill Pet Boarding Inc.

Guide Dog Policy

Fully-trained guide dogs that are on-duty are allowed in the Zoo with their owners as long as they are identified as such.

Some of our animals perceive dogs as predators. Due to animal welfare issues, certain parts of the Zoo may be off limits to visitors with guide dogs. Visitors requiring guide dogs are encouraged to call ahead so that we can provide an escort to assist visitors in these areas.