Zoos have long been a place where people can witness the diversity of the animal kingdom. With advancements in animal care and conservation, zoos are not just about showcasing animals but also about preserving endangered species and educating the public. Across the world, many zoos have expanded in size, housing thousands of animals across extensive landscapes. In this article, we’ll explore the 10 largest zoos in the world, offering insight into their unique features, the number of species they house, and their contributions to global wildlife conservation.
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1. The Wilds (USA)
Located in Ohio, The Wilds is one of the largest and most unique conservation centers in the world. Spanning over 9,154 acres, this open-range zoo focuses on preserving endangered species while providing visitors with a safari-like experience. The Wilds houses a wide variety of animals, from giraffes and rhinos to cheetahs and zebras. Unlike traditional zoos, The Wilds offers animals large, natural habitats, enabling them to roam freely across vast terrains. This unique structure helps foster natural behaviors in animals while providing visitors with a more authentic viewing experience.
2. San Diego Zoo Safari Park (USA)
Covering a vast 1,800 acres in California, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is home to more than 3,500 animals representing over 300 species. Known for its emphasis on species from Africa and Asia, the park offers a range of exhibits that allow animals to roam in environments similar to their natural habitats. Its open-range design allows animals like elephants, rhinos, and giraffes to move about freely. The park is also renowned for its successful breeding programs, particularly for endangered species like the northern white rhino.
3. Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium (USA)
With an impressive 130 acres of land, the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Nebraska, might not be the largest in physical size, but it holds the title for housing one of the largest collections of animals in the world. The zoo is home to more than 17,000 animals, representing over 900 species. What makes Henry Doorly Zoo stand out is its dedication to replicating diverse ecosystems. From the largest indoor desert in the world to an expansive indoor rainforest, this zoo offers unparalleled exhibits, ensuring that every visit is an educational experience.
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4. Toronto Zoo (Canada)
Spanning an area of 710 acres, the Toronto Zoo is the largest zoo in Canada and one of the largest in the world. The zoo is home to more than 5,000 animals from around 500 species. Divided into seven zoogeographic regions, the Toronto Zoo provides a comprehensive look at animals from every continent. From the African Savanna to the Tundra Trek, visitors can explore environments that mimic the natural habitats of the animals on display. The zoo is also involved in numerous conservation programs, especially for Canadian wildlife.
5. Arignar Anna Zoological Park (India)
Located near Chennai, India, the Arignar Anna Zoological Park covers an impressive 1,490 acres, making it one of the largest zoos in Asia. With over 2,500 animals from 150 species, this zoo focuses heavily on creating naturalistic enclosures that provide a comfortable environment for the animals. The zoo plays a vital role in wildlife education and conservation, particularly for the endangered species of India. It has a strong breeding program for species such as the lion-tailed macaque, Bengal tiger, and Indian rhinoceros.
6. Berlin Zoological Garden (Germany)
Berlin Zoological Garden is not only one of the largest zoos in Europe but also the oldest, having opened its doors in 1844. Covering 86 acres, it is home to more than 20,000 animals from over 1,500 species. The zoo is particularly famous for its expansive collection of animals, making it one of the most diverse in the world. Visitors to the Berlin Zoo can see everything from polar bears and giant pandas to exotic birds and reptiles. The zoo also plays a significant role in breeding endangered species and is involved in several global conservation efforts.
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7. Beijing Zoo (China)
With a rich history dating back to 1906, the Beijing Zoo covers 220 acres and is home to over 14,500 animals from more than 950 species. As one of China’s most popular tourist attractions, the zoo is renowned for its large collection of rare animals, including the giant panda, golden snub-nosed monkey, and South China tiger. The Beijing Zoo also plays a critical role in the breeding and conservation of endangered species. Its spacious landscapes and lush gardens make it a top destination for animal lovers.
8. Bronx Zoo (USA)
Located in the heart of New York City, the Bronx Zoo spans 265 acres and houses more than 6,000 animals representing over 700 species. Known for its large and diverse collection of wildlife, the Bronx Zoo is especially famous for its immersive exhibits, such as the Congo Gorilla Forest and Tiger Mountain. The zoo has been a pioneer in conservation efforts, both locally and globally, helping to protect species like the American bison and snow leopard. With its rich history and commitment to wildlife preservation, the Bronx Zoo is one of the premier zoos in the world.
9. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (USA)
With a sprawling 580 acres of land, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio is home to over 7,000 animals from more than 800 species. Divided into several regions, including North America, Asia, and Africa, the zoo offers visitors a global journey through the animal kingdom. One of the standout features of the Columbus Zoo is its dedication to conservation, contributing millions of dollars annually to wildlife protection efforts worldwide. The zoo’s innovative exhibits, such as the Heart of Africa, provide a unique and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
10. Moscow Zoo (Russia)
Established in 1864, the Moscow Zoo is one of the oldest in Europe. Covering 53 acres, it may not be the largest zoo in terms of physical size, but it boasts an impressive collection of over 8,000 animals from more than 1,000 species. The zoo is renowned for its successful breeding programs and its extensive collection of birds and reptiles. Despite its urban location, the Moscow Zoo offers a peaceful and immersive environment where visitors can observe a wide range of species from around the globe.
The Bottom Line
The world’s largest zoos are more than just places to view animals; they are critical hubs for wildlife conservation, education, and research. Each of these zoos plays a vital role in preserving endangered species, educating the public about wildlife, and creating environments where animals can thrive. Visiting these zoos offers a unique opportunity to connect with the natural world and contribute to the ongoing efforts to protect our planet’s biodiversity.
