Chiang Mai Zoo
Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium is a 200-acre zoological park located in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand, established in 1977. It is recognized as the first commercial zoo in northern Thailand and is notable for its extensive animal collection, including a significant aquarium with the world's longest tunnel aquarium.
Key Facts
- ›Established on June 16, 1977.
- ›Covers an area of 200 acres (81 ha).
- ›Houses approximately 400 animal species.
- ›Features two large aquariums, including the world's longest tunnel aquarium.
- ›Previously housed giant pandas as part of a loan from China.
- ›Located west of Chiang Mai University.
Tunnel Aquarium
Giant Pandas, Asian Elephants, Humboldt Penguins, Koalas, Indian Rhinoceroses, Hippopotamuses, Bornean Orangutans, Indochinese Tigers
About Chiang Mai Zoo
Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium
Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium is a significant zoological institution situated on Huay Kaew Road in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand, just west of Chiang Mai University. Established on June 16, 1977, it holds the distinction of being the first commercial zoo in northern Thailand. The zoo covers an expansive area of 200 acres (81 ha), providing a substantial space for its diverse collection of animals and exhibits.
History
The origins of Chiang Mai Zoo can be traced back to 1957 when the Chiang Mai provincial administration established a facility at the base of Doi Suthep. This initial site, comprising 24 acres, was developed with the assistance of Harold Mason Young, whose collection of injured animals attracted visitors. Following Young's death in 1974, the property was taken over by Chiang Mai Province. The zoo was subsequently expanded to its current 200-acre size, transferred to the Zoological Park Organization under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and officially inaugurated as the zoo of Chiang Mai province in 1977.
Exhibits and Animals
Chiang Mai Zoo is privately operated and showcases a wide variety of animals, with approximately 400 species represented. Notable residents include Humboldt penguins, koalas, Indian rhinoceroses, hippopotamuses, greater flamingos, gaur, red-shanked doucs, Bornean orangutans, African spurred tortoises, Asiatic black bears, Malayan sun bears, giant anteaters, Indochinese tigers, Barbary sheep, and Malayan tapirs, alongside numerous reptile species. The zoo also houses two Asian elephants.
A significant feature of Chiang Mai Zoo is its aquarium facilities. It boasts two large aquariums, including a remarkable 133-meter (436 ft) long aquatic tunnel that, upon its opening on October 28, 2008, was recognized as the world's longest tunnel aquarium. The aquarium is home to a variety of fish and marine life, including crustaceans, Asian arowana, and sharks.
Notable Past Residents
Chiang Mai Zoo was notably a host to two giant pandas, Lin Hui and Chuang Chuang, who arrived on October 12, 2003, on a ten-year loan from China as part of a panda diplomacy initiative. Their daughter, Lin Bing, was born at the zoo on May 27, 2009, and was later returned to China. Lin Bing holds significance as one of the few giant pandas born in captivity outside of China. Chuang Chuang passed away on September 16, 2019, due to heart failure, and Lin Hui died on April 19, 2023, while under veterinary care.
Transportation
In 2005, the zoo introduced a 2-kilometer (1.2 mi) Chiang Mai Zoo Monorail, though it ceased operations in 2014. Visitors can still utilize trams, available for a fee, to navigate the zoo grounds.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Chiang Mai Zoo established?
Chiang Mai Zoo was officially opened as the provincial zoo on June 16, 1977. However, its origins trace back to a smaller facility opened to the public in 1957, which was managed by the Chiang Mai provincial administration.
How large is Chiang Mai Zoo?
The zoo spans a total area of 200 acres, which is equivalent to 81 hectares. This size accommodates a diverse range of exhibits and animal habitats.
What notable animals can be found at Chiang Mai Zoo?
The zoo is home to a wide array of species, including Humboldt penguins, koalas, Indian rhinoceroses, hippopotamuses, Bornean orangutans, and Indochinese tigers. It was also famously a temporary home for giant pandas from China.
Does Chiang Mai Zoo have an aquarium?
Yes, Chiang Mai Zoo features two large aquariums. One of these is a remarkable tunnel aquarium, measuring 133 meters (436 ft) in length, which was once the world's longest.
What is the history behind Chiang Mai Zoo's establishment?
The zoo's origins began in 1957 with a facility established by the Chiang Mai provincial administration, influenced by Harold Mason Young, who cared for injured animals. It was later expanded and officially opened as Chiang Mai Zoo in 1977 under the Zoological Park Organization.
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