The Bronx Zoo celebrated the grand opening of its eagerly awaited World of Darkness exhibit today, which is set to open to the public on Saturday, July 12, 2025. This innovative exhibit marks a significant overhaul of the previous attraction that had been closed since 2009, allowing visitors to explore the unseen lives of nocturnal animals.
Originally established in 1969, the World of Darkness was the zoo’s first exhibit to utilize a reverse light cycle, providing a rare glimpse into the lives of night-active creatures. The revitalized exhibit now encompasses a 13,000-square-foot space featuring 21 habitats that include 25 unique species, such as Egyptian fruit bats, pygmy slow lorises, and naked mole rats. Each species has adapted in fascinating ways to survive in total darkness, which will be highlighted through state-of-the-art lighting technology and immersive environments.
Jim Breheny, Director of the Bronx Zoo, expressed the importance of this exhibit, stating, “The new World of Darkness offers visitors an extraordinary opportunity to step into the hidden world of nocturnal animals.” This exhibit not only emphasizes the unique attributes of these creatures but also serves to raise awareness about the necessity of conservation for these often-overlooked species.
The enhanced experience includes acoustic panels designed to mimic a forest canopy, a programmable LED lighting system that simulates the natural transition from dusk to dawn, and interactive elements that will enrich the visitor experience. Accessibility is also a key focus, with the World of Darkness being the zoo’s first permanent bilingual exhibit, featuring signage and educational graphics in both English and Spanish.
Notable species highlighted include the Southern Lesser Galago, the Guatemalan Beaded Lizard, and the eye-catching Aye-aye, each showcasing remarkable evolutionary adaptations. “Conservation Spotlights,” a component of the exhibit, will educate visitors on global efforts to protect these nocturnal species and their habitats.
The revival of this exhibit was made possible through the generous contributions of several benefactors, emphasizing the community’s commitment to wildlife conservation.
As this extraordinary exhibit prepares to open to the public, it promises to provide a magical opportunity to experience the hidden world of nocturnal creatures, while fostering a greater appreciation for biodiversity and the urgent need for conservation efforts.