Maroparque
Spain·Animal Rescue Centre·21st century
Maroparque is an animal rescue center located in Breña Alta, La Palma, Spain, established in 2000. It serves as a sanctuary for over 450 rescued and seized exotic animals, playing a vital role in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation, particularly highlighted by its intake of over 250 animals displaced by the 2021 volcanic eruption.
Key Facts
- ›Opened in 2000, Maroparque is an animal rescue center on the island of La Palma.
- ›It houses approximately 450 animals, with over 250 additional animals received during the 2021 volcanic eruption.
- ›The center spans around 7,000 square meters and is designed with a vertical layout featuring cobbled paths, wooden bridges, and walk-through aviaries.
- ›Maroparque is a non-profit organization named after the Martin Romera family.
- ›It includes a variety of animals such as parrots, crocodiles, snakes, kangaroos, marmosets, and monkeys, as well as an aquarium.
Walk-Through Aviaries, Aquarium
Albino Kangaroos, Nile Crocodiles, Marmosets
Research Programs, Conservation Programs
About Maroparque
Maroparque is a non-profit animal rescue center located in Breña Alta, on the island of La Palma in Spain's Canary Islands. Inaugurated in the year 2000, the center serves as a sanctuary for a variety of animals, often exotic species that have been rescued or seized by authorities.
Layout and Features
The rescue center is uniquely situated on the side of the El Galeon ravine, leading to its description as a "vertical zoo." Its design incorporates a forest-like environment using native vegetation, with visitors navigating via cobbled paths and wooden bridges. The facility includes walk-through aviaries, a restaurant, and an aquarium. The total area of the center is approximately 7,000 square meters (75,000 sq ft).
Animals and Operations
Maroparque typically houses around 450 animals, encompassing both native and non-native species. The animal collection includes birds such as parrots, hens, ostriches, and peacocks; reptiles like Nile crocodiles and various snakes; and mammals including albino kangaroos, marmosets, porcupines, and monkeys. The center plays a crucial role in wildlife rehabilitation, as demonstrated by its intake of over 250 animals displaced during the 2021 volcanic eruption on La Palma. Animals are returned to their owners when possible, with the center retaining those unable to be repatriated. Maroparque also engages in research and conservation programs and offers guided tours. It received financial support from the Cabildo de La Palma during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Maroparque?
Maroparque is an animal rescue center located in Breña Alta, La Palma, Spain. It was opened in 2000 and serves as a sanctuary for rescued and seized exotic animals.
Where is Maroparque located?
Maroparque is situated in Breña Alta, on the island of La Palma, which is part of the Canary Islands in Spain. It is specifically located on the side of the El Galeon ravine.
How many animals does Maroparque house?
The center houses approximately 450 animals. It experienced a significant increase in animal numbers during the 2021 volcanic eruption, receiving over 250 extra animals.
What types of animals can be found at Maroparque?
Maroparque houses a diverse range of animals, including exotic species that have been rescued or seized. These include birds like parrots and peacocks, reptiles such as Nile crocodiles and snakes, and mammals like albino kangaroos, marmosets, and monkeys. The center also features an aquarium.
Is Maroparque a for-profit organization?
No, Maroparque operates as a non-profit organization. It is named after the Martin Romera family, with 'MaRo' derived from their surname.
What is unique about Maroparque's layout?
Maroparque has been described as a vertical zoo due to its layout on the side of a ravine. It features a forest-like environment with native vegetation, connected by cobbled paths and wooden bridges, and includes walk-through aviaries.
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