İzmir Wildlife Park
İzmir Wildlife Park is a non-profit zoo located in İzmir, Turkey, established on November 30, 2008, following the closure of the original İzmir Zoo. It houses approximately 1,800 animals from 132 species, with a focus on exhibiting them in environments that mimic their natural habitats. The park is a significant attraction, drawing around 900,000 visitors annually.
Key Facts
- ›Opened on November 30, 2008.
- ›Covers an area of 425,000 square meters.
- ›Home to approximately 1,800 animals from 132 species.
- ›Located in the ÇIğLI district of İzmir, Turkey.
- ›A member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA).
- ›Attracts around 900,000 visitors each year.
African Savannah, Monkey Islands, Birds of Prey Section, Tropical Center, Children's Zoo
Swans, Ducks, Waterfowl, Giraffes, Wildebeests, Zebras, Hippos, Ostriches, Nyalas, Monkeys, Vervet Monkeys, Black Macaques, Eagles, Hawks, Vultures, Owls, Storks, Ibises, Small Horses, Dwarf Goats, Cameroon Sheep, Rabbits, Land Turtles, Water Turtles, Snakes, Lizards, Crocodiles, Fish, Macaws, Marmosets, Fruit Bats, Asian Elephants, Kangaroos, Meerkats, Ground Squirrels, Guinea Pigs, Coatis, Gazelles, Fallow Deer, Red Deer, Camels, Wild Goats, Hyenas, Bears, Wolves, Lynxes, Ring-Tailed Lemurs, Pumas, Lions, Tigers, White Pelican, Crested Pelican, Peacock, Pheasant, Parrot
About İzmir Wildlife Park
İzmir Wildlife Park, known in Turkish as İzmir Doğal Yaşam Parkı, is a non-profit zoological institution located in İzmir, Turkey. Established on November 30, 2008, it replaced the former İzmir Zoo, which had been Turkey's first zoo since its opening in 1937. The park was developed on a substantial area of 425,000 square meters in the Çiğli district, with the goal of housing animals in environments that closely resemble their natural habitats.
History and Development
The decision to close the original İzmir Zoo, situated within Kültürpark, and relocate its animals to a new, larger facility in Çiğli was made in 2006. Construction of İzmir Wildlife Park commenced that year, and it was officially opened by the İzmir Metropolitan Municipality in late 2008. The park has since become a significant member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), joining the organization on April 3, 2011. In recognition of its efforts in municipal services, landscape, and environment, the park received an award in 2013 from the Organization of Islamic Capitals and Cities.
Animals and Exhibits
As of November 2023, İzmir Wildlife Park is home to approximately 1,800 animals, representing 132 distinct species. The park features a diverse range of exhibits designed to showcase animals in naturalistic settings. These include a large pond area for waterfowl, an expansive African savannah exhibit populated by giraffes, zebras, and hippos, and specialized monkey islands. The park also houses a birds of prey section, a poultry shelter, and a Children's Zoo for younger visitors. Notably, the Tropical Center, a first of its kind in Turkey, displays a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals. Other prominent animals found at the park include Asian elephants, kangaroos, lions, tigers, and various species of deer and bears.
Visitor Information
İzmir Wildlife Park is a popular destination, attracting around 900,000 visitors annually, making it a significant wildlife attraction in the region. The park's commitment to providing naturalistic habitats and a broad collection of species contributes to its appeal for both local residents and tourists.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was İzmir Wildlife Park established?
İzmir Wildlife Park was established and opened to the public on November 30, 2008. Its construction began in 2006.
What is the size of İzmir Wildlife Park?
The park is situated on an area of 425,000 square meters. This area was developed with a construction cost of 21 million lira.
How many animals and species are at İzmir Wildlife Park?
As of November 2023, İzmir Wildlife Park houses nearly 1,800 animals representing 132 different species.
What are some of the notable animal exhibits at İzmir Wildlife Park?
The park features a variety of exhibits, including an African savannah with giraffes, zebras, and hippos, monkey islands, a bird of prey section, and a Tropical Center. It also has dedicated areas for Asian elephants and a Children's Zoo.
Is İzmir Wildlife Park a non-profit organization?
Yes, İzmir Wildlife Park operates as a non-profit zoo.
Does İzmir Wildlife Park have any affiliations with international zoo organizations?
İzmir Wildlife Park has been a member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) since April 3, 2011.
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