Bison at the Smithsonian Castle. Photo by Smithsonian’s National Zoo.

The National Zoo was established 125 years ago yesterday, thanks to a bill signed by President Grover Cleveland. To celebrate the milestone, the Zoo says it will open a bison exhibit in July or August of this year.

Originally exhibited on the National Mall, the bison were relocated to the current Rock Creek Park site of the National Zoo in 1891. The public is invited to support the National Zoo’s efforts to bring bison back through a giving campaign. More details as well as information on complementary programs will be released soon.

We here at DCist are clearly very thankful for the National Zoo and its many inhabitants. Especially these otters playing with snow.

And Bao Bao.

Also these guys.

Who are we kidding? We love them all.