Baghdad Zoo

The Baghdad Zoo is a zoological park situated in Baghdad, Iraq, within the Al-Zawraa Park complex. Originally established in 1971, it encompasses an area of 200 acres (81 ha). The zoo faced a catastrophic period during the 2003 invasion of Iraq, which resulted in its near-total destruction and the loss of most of its animal inhabitants.

History and Devastation

Opened under Ahmed Hassan al-Bakr, the zoo's early facilities were noted as insufficient. The United Nations Iraq sanctions following the first Gulf War had already impacted the zoo's resources, limiting access to food, medicines, and vaccines. In the spring of 2002, Saddam Hussein ordered the zoo closed for renovations.

The 2003 invasion brought about the zoo's most devastating period. As fighting intensified around Baghdad, zoo workers suspended feeding for safety, and Fedayeen Saddam troops took defensive positions. During this time, the zoo was subjected to severe looting, with cages broken open and hundreds of animals and birds released or taken, many for food due to pre-war shortages. Out of an estimated 650 to 700 animals, only about 35, primarily larger animals, survived the initial days of the invasion. Remaining animals were found in critical condition from thirst and starvation. Several lions escaped and were later rounded up by American soldiers, with four being shot after attacking troops. The fictionalized graphic novel Pride of Baghdad was inspired by these escaped lions.

Rebuilding and Recovery

In the aftermath of the invasion, a significant rebuilding effort commenced. In mid-April 2003, South African conservationist Lawrence Anthony, along with two assistants, traveled from Kuwait to provide relief. Working with returning zoo staff and directors, they began caring for the surviving animals, restoring basic hygiene, and stabilizing the situation. U.S. Army Captain William Sumner was instrumental in improving security and stemming looting, appointing Anthony as interim zoo administrator. Other conservation organizations, including Wildaid, Care for the Wild International, and IFAW, also contributed to the rescue and restoration.

The zoo and its surrounding park officially reopened to the public on July 20, 2003, featuring 86 animals. Many of these were rescued from various private menageries and palaces. The rebuilding process was documented in the book Babylon's Ark by Lawrence Anthony and Graham Spence.

Setbacks and Continued Operation

Despite the progress, the zoo experienced setbacks. In September 2003, a U.S. Army Reserve soldier was severely mauled by a Bengal tiger during a party held at the zoo after hours. The tiger was fatally wounded during the incident. In 2009, three wild boars were euthanized due to concerns about potential A/H1N1 flu infection.

By 2008, the zoo's animal population had grown to approximately 800, predominantly birds. In August 2008, the zoo received two tiger cubs, Riley and Hope, from the Conservators' Center in North Carolina. By 2009, the zoo reported a population of about 1,070 animals. To ensure visitor safety, the Al Zawraa Park is now guarded by special police units, with visitors undergoing security checks. The zoo continues to operate as a public attraction in Baghdad.