Loro Parque

Loro Parque, a zoological garden located on the outskirts of Puerto de la Cruz on Tenerife, Spain, is a significant attraction in the Canary Islands, drawing over 40 million visitors since its inception. Initially founded as a haven for parrots, the park has expanded considerably from its original 1.3-hectare site to its current 13.5 hectares, becoming a comprehensive zoo housing a diverse array of animal and plant species.

History and Development

Founded in 1972 by Wolfgang Kiessling, Loro Parque began with a focus on parrots, housing 150 of these birds. Over the decades, it has grown into a world-renowned institution. The park is now home to approximately 4,000 parrots, representing 350 species and sub-species, making its parrot collection the largest globally and a key resource for the study and conservation of these birds. Beyond its avian inhabitants, Loro Parque features a wide variety of other animals, including dolphins, penguins, chimpanzees, western lowland gorillas, sea lions, jaguars, and white tigers.

Conservation Efforts

A cornerstone of Loro Parque's mission is its commitment to wildlife conservation, spearheaded by the Loro Parque Fundación, established in 1994. This international foundation, a member of the IUCN, actively supports conservation initiatives in 28 countries, having funded over 82 projects with more than $10 million. The foundation is particularly dedicated to preserving endangered parrot species through captive breeding programs and field projects. Notable successes include efforts with the critically endangered Spix's macaw and the indigo-winged parrot, as well as assisting in the release of captive-bred macaws into reserves in Ecuador.

Notable Exhibits and Programs

Loro Parque is recognized for its immersive exhibits and animal presentations. The "Orca Ocean" exhibit has been a focal point, housing a population of orcas that have been part of breeding programs and featured in daily shows. The park also presents dolphin shows, sea lion performances, and "The Loro Show" dedicated to its parrot inhabitants. Other attractions include an indoor cinema, a children's playground named "Kinderlandia," and a parrot museum. The park's facilities and operations have also been the subject of public scrutiny and criticism, particularly concerning animal welfare in its marine mammal exhibits.

Recognition and Incidents

Loro Parque has received accolades for its contributions to tourism, including the "Importante del Turismo 2000" award from the Canary Islands Government. However, the park has also faced criticism from various organizations regarding animal welfare, especially concerning its orca population. Incidents have occurred, including animal attacks on trainers and the deaths of several orcas, which have led to heightened awareness and debate surrounding the park's practices and the ethics of keeping marine mammals in captivity.