French Guiana Zoo
French Guiana·Wildlife park·20th century
The French Guiana Zoo, also known as Zoo de Guyane, is a significant tourist attraction located between Macouria and Montsinéry in French Guiana. Originally established as a hummingbird breeding center in 1983, it has evolved into a comprehensive wildlife park that emphasizes local fauna and conservation efforts, attracting numerous visitors annually.
Key Facts
- ›Originally opened in 1983 as a hummingbird breeding center.
- ›Transformed into a wildlife park named Réserve Animalière Macourienne in 1985.
- ›Renovated and reopened as Zoo de Guyane in 2008 after being purchased by local communes and then by entrepreneurs Franck and Angélique Chaulet.
- ›Located between Macouria and Montsinéry in French Guiana.
- ›Features a treetop path for visitors and a care and rescue center for local wildlife.
- ›Participates in the EAZA Ex-situ Programme.
- Treetop path
- Tropical greenhouse with commemorative plaque for Eugène Bellony
Papy, Tama, Camopi
EAZA Ex-situ Programme, Care and rescue center for local wildlife
About French Guiana Zoo
The French Guiana Zoo, officially known as Zoo de Guyane or Zoo-refuge de Guyane, is a prominent zoological institution and tourist destination located in French Guiana, situated between the towns of Macouria and Montsinéry.
History
The zoo's origins trace back to 1983 when Rudolf Watshinger established Fauna Flora Amazonica, a center dedicated to breeding hummingbirds. This initiative evolved in 1985 into a wildlife park named Réserve Animalière Macourienne. The park faced a period of closure in 2007 due to its age and the necessity of meeting safety standards. In 2008, Franck and Angélique Chaulet, who had previously revitalized other zoos, purchased and reopened the facility as Zoo de Guyane. Under their stewardship, significant renovations were undertaken to align with accreditation standards set by the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA).
By 2013, the zoo had become the second most visited attraction in French Guiana. A new aviary, named in honor of naturalist Eugène Bellony, was constructed in 2014, with its initial inhabitants being 40 rainbow lorikeets. The zoo has also taken measures to enhance its security following several incidents, including attempted and successful thefts.
Animals and Exhibits
The collection at the French Guiana Zoo features a diverse array of species, including various monkeys, sloths, anteaters, harpy eagles, and caimans, alongside an extensive bird collection. A notable feature is the treetop path, allowing visitors to experience the forest canopy. The zoo also houses a care and rescue center for local wildlife, with a focus on rehabilitation and eventual release.
A long-term resident, Papy, a male jaguar, lived at the zoo until his death in August 2023 at an advanced age for his species. He was survived by Tama, the zoo's female jaguar. A commemorative plaque dedicated to Eugène Bellony is also displayed within the zoo's tropical greenhouse.
Conservation and Visitor Information
The French Guiana Zoo actively participates in the EAZA Ex-situ Programme, contributing to species conservation efforts. The zoo is open daily to visitors and is a key component of French Guiana's tourism landscape.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the French Guiana Zoo established?
The French Guiana Zoo began its existence in 1983 as Fauna Flora Amazonica, a hummingbird breeding center. It was later transformed into a wildlife park in 1985 and then reopened as Zoo de Guyane in 2008 after renovations.
Where is the French Guiana Zoo located?
The zoo is situated in French Guiana, specifically between the communes of Macouria and Montsinéry.
What kind of animals can be found at the French Guiana Zoo?
The zoo houses a collection of several species of monkeys, sloths, anteaters, harpy eagles, caimans, and a large variety of birds. It also has a jaguar enclosure.
Does the French Guiana Zoo have any special conservation programs?
Yes, the zoo is an active participant in the EAZA Ex-situ Programme. It also operates a care and rescue center for local wildlife, aiming to rehabilitate and release animals back into their natural habitats whenever possible.
What are some notable features or exhibits at the zoo?
The zoo offers a treetop path through the canopy, providing a unique perspective for visitors. A commemorative plaque honoring naturalist Eugène Bellony is displayed in the tropical greenhouse.
Has the zoo experienced any security incidents?
The zoo has faced security challenges, including an attempted theft of a tapir and a successful theft of a snake in 2025. In May 2026, there was a break-in near the tapir enclosure, but a newborn tapir calf was safely recovered after initially being feared stolen.
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