Popcorn Park Zoo Popcorn Park Zoo News

On January 21st, the zoo announced their Executive Director of Popcorn Park, John Bergmann, retired after around 50 years of working at the facility. The zoo also announced they hired a new Executive Director, Cory Scott, who previously worked as a senior keeper at Central Park Zoo and Prospect Park Zoo in New York.

116K views · 3.3K reactions | After nearly five decades of unwavering dedication to animal welfare, John Bergmann, the Executive Director of Popcorn Park Animal Refuge, is retiring. John's journey with Popcorn Park began back in 1974 when he assisted in founding the Refuge. Since then, it has become a sanctuary for countless animals in need. Our first resident, Rigby the racoon, was rescued from a leg-hold trap and was unable to be released due to his leg having to be amputated. Rigby and his story captured the hearts of our community and paved the way for hundreds of other animals in need. Over the years, Popcorn Park has grown to provide sanctuary to over 200 wildlife, farm animals, and exotics, including Princess the Camel and Sonny the Elephant. “John Bergmann is synonymous with Popcorn Park and animal welfare in New Jersey,” said Bob Baerenbach, Board President of Associated Humane Societies. “His vision, leadership, and tireless dedication have transformed Popcorn Park into a sanctuary that not only saves animals but educates and inspires our community. We are forever grateful for his contributions.” Jerry Rosenthal, CEO of Associated Humane Societies, added, “John’s impact on AHS and Popcorn Park is immeasurable. His commitment to animal welfare and his ability to connect with animals and people have been vital to furthering our mission. We thank him for his decades of service and wish him the very best in retirement.” As John steps away, we are thrilled to announce Cory Scott as the new Executive Director of Popcorn Park. Cory brings wealth of experience from his time as a Senior Wild Animal Keeper at both the Central Park and Prospect Zoos, as well as Operations Manager at the Veterinary Emergency Group. His passion and expertise will ensure that Popcorn Park's legacy continues to thrive and grow. John’s retirement marks the end of an extraordinary era for Popcorn Park Animal Refuge. While he will be deeply missed, his legacy will forever be a part of the Refuge’s foundation. Please join us in celebrating John Bergmann’s incredible career and welcoming Cory Scott to the Popcorn Park family! | Popcorn Park Animal Refuge

On March 28th, the zoo announced they acquired 2 bobcats named Reba/Rebound and Rick/Ricochet respectively from an unspecified facility in Arizona which are now on exhibit.

18K views · 551 reactions | From Arizona to Popcorn Park: Meet Our Bobcat Kittens! This January, we welcomed two special new residents—Ricochet (Rick) and Rebound (Reba), a pair of young bobcat siblings born on July 4, 2024. These playful, curious kittens needed a place to call home, and we couldn’t say no. Rick and Reba were part of an unexpected litter at a zoo in Arizona, where space and resources were limited. Now, they’re settling into life at Popcorn Park—climbing, exploring, and developing thier natural instincts. Watching their bond and wild nature unfold has been incredible, and we’re honored to provide them with lifelong care. Big cats including our lions, tigers, cougars, African serval, and now, our bobcats—are the most expensive animals to feed and care for at Popcorn Park. Their diet, vet care, and enrichment require significant resources, and we can’t do it alone. Rick and Reba needed a safe place to land. We said yes—because we knew you wouldn’t let them down Their journey is just beginning, and with your help, we can ensure they have everything they need. Donate now and be part of their story: https://ahs.givecloud.co/RickandRebaBobcats #newresidents #Bobcats #animalrefuge #popcornpark | Popcorn Park Animal Refuge

On March 30th, the zoo announced they were in the process of renovating exhibits in the Reptile House, with the common green iguanas already back on show. On April 3rd, the zoo announced they finished renovating the reticulated python exhibit.

Popcorn Park Animal Refuge
3.3K views · 100 reactions | Did you know "Udon" is also the name of a thick Japanese noodle? Udon the beautiful python got a big surprise when she found her living space in the Reptile House completely refreshed! With new plants to explore, a variety of mulch to investigate, and her favorite water feature decorated just for her, it’s safe to say she’s loving the makeover! Enrichment like this keeps our residents happy and engaged. Help us continue sprucing up their homes by donating to Popcorn Park: https://ahs.givecloud.co/DonateToPopcornPark #snakes #python #animalrefuge #popcornpark | Popcorn Park Animal Refuge

On April 10th, the zoo announced they acquired 7 budgeigars which are now on display in the Aviary.

6K views · 224 reactions | We’re excited to welcome a new family of parakeets to our Aviary! After settling into their new surroundings, Keeper Lindsey was there to carefully supervise this exciting transition They’re now stretching their wings and getting to know their feathered neighbors. Stay tuned for more updates and help us give them a warm welcome to Popcorn Park! #aviary #parakeets #animalrefuge #popcornpark | Popcorn Park Animal Refuge
 
On September 6th, the sanctuary announced they built new exhibits for some of their domestic pigs, with more on the way.

Popcorn Park Animal Refuge

On June 16th, the sanctuary announced they acquired a female (0.1) striped skunk named Honey, which is an ambassador animal.

Popcorn Park Animal Refuge

On June 18th, the sanctuary announced they acquired a male (1.0) serval named Sushi, which is on exhibit.

441 reactions · 29 shares | Meet Sushi the African Serval Sushi recently joined us at Popcorn Park and is beginning to settle into his new home! Like our fellow serval, Sammy, Sushi was kept as a household pet, a life that simply doesn’t suit wild animals like him. Servals may look like oversized house cats, but they are anything but tame. With strong hunting instincts, special diets, and a need for constant stimulation, they belong in their natural environment (the wild), not in someone’s living room. Now, Sushi is settling into life where he can truly be himself. He’s getting to know his new surroundings, playing with plenty of toys, and enjoying his favorite food…chicken! Sushi and Sammy are slowly getting to know each other through the window and are taking it slow as Sushi adjusts. Learn more about Sushi and help us give him the very best with a sponsorship through our Wildlife Club! While he may not be that kind of sushi, he’s still quite a catch❤️ | Popcorn Park Animal Refuge

On June 20th, the sanctuary announced they acquired a male (1.0) red-necked wallaby named JoJo from an unspecified petting zoo in New Jersey, which is on display in the white-tailed deer exhibit.

Popcorn Park Animal Refuge

On July 11th, the sanctuary announced they acquired a female (0.1) Eurasian eagle owl named Iris from an unspecified facility in Florida, which is on exhibit.

2.6K reactions · 196 shares | Introducing Iris the Eurasian Eagle Owl, the newest face at Popcorn Park! This fierce queen spent her early years dazzling crowds at Universal Studios and even landed a cameo on a DJ Khaled album cover. (Yes, seriously!) Now, Iris is settling into retirement like the icon she is, rocking a custom-renovated habitat and serving looks to visitors. ⭐️ Want to see the photo with DJ Khaled? Click the link in our bio to read her story through our Wildlife Club. | Popcorn Park Animal Refuge

On August 5th, the sanctuary announced that 5+ Indian peafowl hatched.

Popcorn Park Animal Refuge

On September 24th, the sanctuary announced they combined the generic tiger exhibits into 1, with a new water feature and new platforms, which is now open to the public.

2.5K views · 2K reactions | Jonathan and Jules reaction to their new place! We think it’s safe to say they like it Come on out to Popcorn Park to see the new renovation for yourselves! From a huge new water feature, plenty of grass and foliage, new toys and platforms to climb on, there’s a lot to explore for our tigers Just by visiting your admission helps support our animals like this We are open daily from 10am to 4pm. | Popcorn Park Animal Refuge
 
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