The Bronx Zoo first opened its gates to the public on November 8, 1899. At the time, the zoo had 22 exhibits and 843 animals. Intensive construction of the zoo began in the summer of 1898 with the entire first plan realized by 1912. Since that time, the Bronx Zoo has undergone many physical changes -- only the outer structure of the World of Reptiles remains much as it was in 1899. What has not changed, however, is the zoo’s dedication to wildlife conservation, education, and innovative exhibits.