Hangzhou Zoo
People's Republic of China·Urban Zoo·20th Century
Hangzhou Zoo, located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, China, is a significant zoological institution that opened in 1958. Following organizational reforms in 2020, it now cooperates with Hangzhou Children's Park, collectively covering 440 acres and housing approximately 120 species of rare wild animals. The zoo is notable for attracting over 2.3 million visitors annually and for the international attention it received in 2023 due to a viral video of one of its sun bears.
Key Facts
- ›Opened in 1958.
- ›Covers a total area of 440 acres in cooperation with Hangzhou Children's Park.
- ›Houses 120 kinds of rare wild animals.
- ›Receives an annual attendance averaging over 2.3 million tourists.
- ›Gained international attention in 2023 due to a viral video of a sun bear.
- ›Experienced a 30% increase in attendance after the viral video.
Malaysian Sun Bear 'Angela'
About Hangzhou Zoo
Hangzhou Zoo is a zoological institution situated in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, within the People's Republic of China. Officially opened in 1958, the zoo has evolved over the decades, undergoing significant organizational reforms in June 2020. Following these reforms, Hangzhou Zoo began a cooperative relationship with Hangzhou Children's Park.
Collectively, Hangzhou Zoo and Hangzhou Children's Park now span a total area of 440 acres. This combined space supports a diverse collection, featuring approximately 120 kinds of rare wild animals. The zoo is a popular destination, attracting an average annual attendance of over 2.3 million tourists, underscoring its importance as a recreational and educational site.
In 2023, Hangzhou Zoo garnered international attention due to a viral video posted on the Douyin platform. The video depicted 'Angela,' one of its female Malaysian sun bears, standing upright and waving to visitors. This unusual behavior sparked widespread speculation and conspiracy theories online, with some users suggesting the bear was a person in a costume. The zoo and various animal experts, including those from western institutions, publicly refuted these claims, explaining that sun bears naturally possess loose skin and can stand on their hind legs. The international media coverage of this event led to a substantial increase in zoo attendance, with visitor numbers rising by 30% and some visitors traveling considerable distances to see the publicized sun bears.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Hangzhou Zoo established?
Hangzhou Zoo was officially opened in 1958. It underwent organizational reforms in June 2020, leading to a cooperative arrangement with Hangzhou Children's Park.
What is the size of Hangzhou Zoo?
In cooperation with Hangzhou Children's Park, the combined area of Hangzhou Zoo is 440 acres. This expansive site allows for the housing of a diverse range of animals.
What types of animals can be found at Hangzhou Zoo?
Hangzhou Zoo is home to approximately 120 kinds of rare wild animals. The specific species vary, but the collection focuses on diverse and uncommon wildlife.
Why did Hangzhou Zoo gain international attention in 2023?
The zoo gained international interest after a viral video on Douyin showed one of its Malaysian sun bears, named 'Angela,' standing and waving. This led to online speculation that the bear might be a person in a suit, which the zoo and animal experts refuted.
Did the viral sun bear video affect visitor numbers?
Yes, following widespread media coverage of the controversial video, Hangzhou Zoo saw a significant increase in attendance. Visitor numbers rose by 30%, with approximately 20,000 people visiting daily.
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