Zoo of Novosibirsk | Novosibirsk

The Zoo of Novosibirsk, also known as the Novosibirsk Zoo, is one of the largest and most famous zoos in Russia. Located in Lenin's Grove (aka Zaeltsovsky Park) on the banks of the Ob River, the zoo is a major attraction for both locals and visitors, offering a wide variety of animals and a rich educational experience.

History and Overview

Founded in 1947, the Novosibirsk Zoo has grown significantly over the years. Initially, it started as a small collection of animals for the people of Novosibirsk, but over time, it developed into a large and modern zoo that houses thousands of animals from across the world. The zoo also plays a significant role in the conservation of endangered species and offers educational programs for the public.

Foundation: The zoo was founded shortly after World War II, when the city was still recovering from the devastation of the war. The zoo's early years were focused on offering a local attraction for the people of Novosibirsk.

Growth: Over the decades, the zoo expanded significantly, both in terms of its size and the variety of animals it housed. Today, it is one of the most respected zoos in Russia.

Animal Collection

The Novosibirsk Zoo is home to a wide range of animals, representing species from all corners of the globe. With over 11,000 animals from around 700 species, the zoo is known for its impressive and diverse collection.

1. Wildlife and Exotic Species

The zoo showcases a range of wildlife and exotic species, with many animals from different continents and ecosystems:

Siberian Tigers: The zoo is famous for its Siberian tigers, a species that is particularly important in terms of conservation. The zoo is involved in efforts to protect and breed this rare tiger species.

Polar Bears: One of the most beloved residents of the zoo are the polar bears, which are a major attraction for visitors.

Big Cats: In addition to Siberian tigers, the zoo houses other big cats like lions, leopards, and snow leopards.

Primates: The zoo has a large section dedicated to primates, featuring species such as chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans.

Birds: A large collection of exotic birds, including flamingos, peacocks, and eagles, is also featured prominently in the zoo.

2. Rare and Endangered Species

The Novosibirsk Zoo is committed to the conservation of endangered species and has been involved in a number of breeding programs for vulnerable animals. Some of the rare and endangered species you can find here include:

Amur Leopards: The zoo participates in breeding programs for the Amur leopard, a critically endangered species.

Przewalski's Horses: The zoo is also home to the Przewalski’s horse, a species of wild horse that was once thought to be extinct.

Asian Elephants: The zoo cares for Asian elephants, another species that is considered endangered.

3. Aquatic Animals and Reptiles

The zoo also houses an extensive collection of aquatic animals and reptiles:

Aquarium: The zoo features a modern aquarium with a variety of fish, including exotic species from tropical and marine environments.

Reptile House: The zoo has a dedicated reptile house, which features snakes, lizards, and other reptiles from various regions of the world.

Zoo Zones and Exhibits

The Novosibirsk Zoo is divided into different thematic areas, each housing animals that reflect particular ecosystems and habitats. Some notable zones and exhibits include:

1. Savannah and African Section

This area is dedicated to animals from the African Savannah, including giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and various species of antelope and birds. Visitors can learn about the wildlife of Africa and the efforts being made to conserve these species.

2. Tropical Zone

The Tropical Zone is home to monkeys, tropical birds, reptiles, and various species of primates. The atmosphere here simulates the dense rainforests of places like South America and Southeast Asia.

3. Polar and Cold Climate Animals

In the cold climate section, visitors can see animals from Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, including polar bears, reindeer, wolves, and seals. This exhibit gives insight into how animals adapt to the harsh conditions of cold environments.

4. Siberian and Steppe Animals

This section focuses on the native wildlife of Siberia and the steppe, including animals like the Siberian tiger, brown bears, moose, and bison. It highlights the local fauna of the region, with a focus on conservation efforts for these species.

Conservation Efforts and Breeding Programs

The Novosibirsk Zoo is involved in several conservation projects aimed at protecting endangered species and fostering breeding programs. It works in collaboration with other zoos and wildlife organizations globally to contribute to the survival of species that are at risk of extinction.

Siberian Tiger Conservation: The zoo has one of the largest collections of Siberian tigers in the world and plays a major role in their conservation.

Amur Leopard Breeding Program: The zoo also participates in breeding programs for the Amur leopard, a critically endangered species.

Educational Programs: The zoo runs educational programs for visitors, particularly school children, to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation and the need to protect endangered species.

Visitor Experience

The zoo offers an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Some of the highlights include:

Guided Tours: Visitors can take guided tours of the zoo, led by knowledgeable staff who provide interesting facts about the animals and their habitats.

Animal Feeding: The zoo offers special events where visitors can witness the feeding of animals like polar bears and big cats, providing a unique and thrilling experience.

Play Areas for Children: For families, the zoo has several playgrounds and interactive areas, making it a fun destination for children.

Zoo Café and Souvenirs: The zoo has a café where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal, as well as a gift shop offering souvenirs related to the zoo and its animals.

Conclusion

The Novosibirsk Zoo is a dynamic and educational destination that plays an essential role in the conservation of endangered species and the education of the public about wildlife. Its vast collection of animals, commitment to breeding and conservation programs, and visitor-friendly layout make it one of the premier attractions in Novosibirsk. Whether you're interested in learning about rare species, seeing animals from all over the world, or simply enjoying a day out with family, the Novosibirsk Zoo offers something for everyone.