Sydney’s First Zoo

Taronga Zoo is Sydney’s iconic Zoo that we all know and love - but it wasn’t Sydney’s first. Where were the animals before?

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In 1884, Sydney's first zoo opened its gates to the public. Located in Moore Park, the zoo shared its grounds with the Moore Park Racecourse, opened in 1882, the Sydney Cricket Grounds, also opened in 1884, and the beautiful Moore Park Gardens. 

Officially named the Sydney Zoo, this pioneering institution marked the beginning of Sydney's engagement with wildlife conservation and public animal education. The zoo featured a range of exotic and native animals, including lions, elephants, monkeys, and kangaroos. It aimed to provide an educational experience for visitors while offering a glimpse into the animal kingdom.

Moore Park Zoo postcard, 1912

However, the Sydney Zoo faced a lot of challenges. Financial difficulties, evolving standards for animal welfare, and the limitations of its location highlighted the need for a more modern and expansive facility. 

In 1916, the Sydney Zoo closed its doors, making way for the establishment of Taronga Zoo, on a more suitable site overlooking Sydney Harbour. This new zoo was designed to meet the more contemporary standards for animal care and conservation, providing larger enclosures and improved facilities for the animals.

The closure of the Sydney Zoo led to a significant relocation effort. The animals from the Moore Park zoo were transferred to Taronga Zoo, ensuring their continued care in a state-of-the-art environment. The opening of Taronga Zoo in October 1917 marked a new era in Sydney’s zoological history, reflecting a much greater commitment to both the well-being of the animals and the educational experience of the public.

Taronga Zoo quickly became a leading centre for wildlife conservation and public education. The transition from Sydney Zoo in Moore Park to Taronga Zoo in Mosman represented a pivotal moment in Sydney's history, establishing a model for modern zoological institutions and continuing the mission of wildlife preservation and public engagement.

To support Taronga Zoo’s continued efforts to breed threatened species, carry on vital scientific research and deliver conservation programs, visit tarongazoo.org.au/donate