ZOOdiac Story

We all know that there are 12 animals that represent the lunar years, but you may be wondering how this all got started. The story begins with the Jade Emperor, a very important god who organized a great race and invited all the animals of the world to take part. Twelve species showed up to the starting line and the order that they placed in the race would determine the order each animal would be placed in the lunar calendar.

Begin your journey by visiting the North American Porcupine exhibit!

The Utica Zoo will close at 3pm on 12/31 and will reopen with normal hours on 1/1!