Novosibirsk Zoo
The Novosibirsk Zoo, officially named after Rostislav Alexandrovich Shilo, is a major scientific institution and tourist attraction in Russia. It is renowned for its extensive collection of animals and its active participation in conservation breeding programs for endangered species, making it a significant site for both public education and wildlife preservation.
Key Facts
- ›Founded officially on August 29, 1948.
- ›Relocated to a new area in Zayeltsovsky District, with the new zoo opening in 1993 and final relocation completed in 2005.
- ›Houses approximately 11,000 animals representing 738 species.
- ›Participates in thirty-two captive breeding programs for endangered species.
- ›Attracts over 1,500,000 visitors annually.
- ›Known for its black-maned lions, considered the closest living relatives to the extinct Cape lion.
- Black-maned lions (closest living relatives to extinct Cape lion)
- Captive Breeding Programmes For Endangered Species
About Novosibirsk Zoo
The Novosibirsk Zoo, officially known as the Novosibirsk Zoo named after Rostislav Alexandrovich Shilo, is a prominent scientific institution and a significant tourist destination in Novosibirsk, Russia. Established on August 29, 1948, its history traces back to a smaller zoological garden founded in 1933. The zoo underwent a major relocation, beginning in 1979, to a new site in the Zayeltsovsky District, with the new facilities opening in 1993 and the move fully completed by 2005.
Scientific and Conservation Focus
Novosibirsk Zoo is recognized for its extensive collection, housing approximately 11,000 animals across 738 species. It plays a vital role in wildlife conservation, actively participating in thirty-two different captive breeding programs for endangered species. This commitment to preservation is coupled with extensive scientific research aimed at cultivating and safeguarding rare animal populations.
Notable Features and Animals
A particular point of interest is the zoo's population of black-maned lions, which are considered the closest living relatives to the extinct Cape lion of South Africa. These lions are maintained in expansive, naturalistic outdoor enclosures, enduring the harsh Siberian climate, and have successfully produced numerous offspring. The zoo also incorporates a Center of oceanography and marine biology named "Dolphinia," which has been part of the institution since 2016.
Visitors and Legacy
Annually, the Novosibirsk Zoo attracts over 1.5 million visitors, establishing itself as a popular recreational and educational site. Rostislav Shilo, the zoo's director from 1972 until his passing in 2016, is memorialized in the zoo's name for his instrumental role in its development and relocation. The zoo continues to be a cornerstone of zoological study and conservation efforts in the region.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Novosibirsk Zoo founded?
The history of the Novosibirsk Zoo began with a zoological garden founded in 1933. However, the zoo was officially established on August 29, 1948.
Why was the zoo relocated?
The zoo was ordered to be relocated in 1959 because the resources for development at its original location on Gogol Street had been exhausted due to the city's growth. The relocation process began in 1979 and faced many organizational and financial challenges.
What is notable about the black-maned lions at Novosibirsk Zoo?
The zoo is known to hold black-maned lions that are believed to be the closest surviving relatives of the extinct Cape lion of South Africa. These lions are kept outdoors year-round in natural settings and have successfully produced many cubs.
Who was Rostislav Shilo and what was his role?
Rostislav Shilo served as the director of the Novosibirsk Zoo from 1972 until his death in 2016. His most significant contribution was overseeing the relocation of the zoo to a new, larger area, which greatly contributed to its development.
Does the Novosibirsk Zoo have a marine biology component?
Yes, since 2016, the Center of oceanography and marine biology "Dolphinia" has been part of the Novosibirsk Zoo.
Related Zoos
Moscow Zoo
The Moscow Zoo, also known as Moskovsky Zoopark, is one of the largest and oldest zoological parks in Russia, spanning 21.5 hectares. Founded in 1864 by professor-biologists, it has evolved significantly over its history, undergoing expansions and renovations to house a vast collection of animals and offer educational programs.
Rostov Zoo
Rostov Zoo, located in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, is a significant zoological institution involved in wildlife conservation. It participates in numerous programs aimed at protecting endangered species and is home to a diverse array of animals, including large cats, elephants, and rare reptiles.
Kaliningrad Zoo
The Kaliningrad Zoo, originally established as the Königsberger Tiergarten in 1896, is one of Russia's oldest and largest zoological gardens. Situated in the city of Kaliningrad, formerly Königsberg, it spans over 16.5 hectares and houses a diverse collection of over 300 species and more than 2,000 individual animals.