No, not the MTV show, but a real zoo on The Jersey Shore
About ten miles east of Barnegat Bay, in Forked River, you'll find The Popcorn Park Zoo which was established in 1977 by the Associated Humane Society for the sole purpose of providing a refuge for wildlife that were sick, elderly, abandoned, abused, or injured, and which could no longer survive in its natural habitat. As time went on, they expanded to include exotic and domestic animals. Over 200 of these animals and birds now live in spacious surroundings in the heart of the scenic Pine Barrens in southern in southern Ocean County. The Zoo, which is federally licensed, comprises seven acres and is graced by the indigenous Scrub Oak and Scrub Pine.
You may be greeted at the gate by a gaggle of geese, which is no big suprise this close to Barnegat Bay, but soon you will see a marvelous array of animals including African lions, tigers, mountain lions, a camel, emus, rheas, Australian wallabies and more. Many different types of monkeys clamor for your attention in the monkey house, and the Zoo abounds with all kinds of native wildlife such as white-tailed and fallow deer, bobcats, an American black bear (found along The Jersey Shore), and a raccoon. Farm animals such as horses, steer, sheep, pigs and goats often look for a handout, and reptiles and tortoises enjoy their own special house. In addition, you¹ll find numerous species of birds have made themselves comfortable throughout the zoo.
But what makes Popcorn Park so special is that each animal was rescued from suffering, exploitation and/or death - each has its own unique story to tell. You can learn these stories as you walk through the Zoo.
The Associated Humane Societies is a full-service humane society operating three animal care centers in New Jersey, and Popcorn Park Zoo, a refuge for handicapped, abused, exploited, ill, injured and elderly wildlife, birds, exotic, and farm animals.
You can visit the Popcorn Park Zoo regularly from this beautiful home located in Forked River on The Jersey Shore. This house has been completely renovated with 2 bedrooms and a guest/office room. Open floor plan, breakfast bar, and dining area overlooking lagoon,minutes to Barnegat Bay. Enjoy the views from your two level deck...a great find.
Karl Hess, Barnegat
Your Agent on The Jersey Shore
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