Paramaribo Zoo
Suriname·Urban Zoo·20th century
The Paramaribo Zoo is the sole zoological institution in Paramaribo, Suriname, established in May 1972. It is notable for housing a collection where approximately 75% of the animals are native to Suriname, many of which were confiscated or were former pets. The zoo has undergone significant renovations and faced financial challenges throughout its history.
Key Facts
- ›Opened in May 1972.
- ›Located adjacent to the Cultuurtuin in Rainville, Paramaribo.
- ›Approximately 75% of animals are local wild animals.
- ›All animals, except tigers, are native to Suriname.
- ›Received support from Diergaarde Blijdorp in 2003.
- ›Reopened on May 28, 2006, after renovations.
Monkey Islands
Jaguar, Tiger, Scarlet Ibisses, Spider Monkeys
About Paramaribo Zoo
The Paramaribo Zoo is the only zoological institution located in Paramaribo, the capital city of Suriname. It was established in May 1972, with the initiative for its creation attributed to prime-minister Jopie Pengel. The zoo is situated in Rainville, adjacent to the Cultuurtuin.
History and Collection
Prime-minister Pengel, who privately kept a variety of animals, conceived the idea of a zoo to share his collection, particularly after acquiring lions in 1966. A notable aspect of the Paramaribo Zoo's collection is that approximately 75% of its animals are local wild animals. Many of these creatures were either confiscated from illegal ownership or were former pets. With the exception of tigers, all animals housed at the zoo are native to Suriname.
Challenges and Development
The zoo faced a significant loss of its animal collection during the 1980s, a period marked by the military dictatorship of Bouterse. In later years, the institution sought and received support from international zoos. Diergaarde Blijdorp in Rotterdam provided assistance in 2003, followed by a benefit evening organized by Blijdorp and Natura Artis Magistra in Amsterdam in 2004. These efforts contributed to renovations, and the zoo was reopened on May 28, 2006, by president Venetiaan. During this renovation, two monkey islands were constructed, which proved successful, with six spider monkeys born as of 2020.
In March 2020, a reconstruction program commenced with the aim of better replicating the native conditions for the animals. Shortly after, in April 2020, a water park for children was built. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic presented new challenges. The zoo reopened in February 2021 but has since been experiencing serious financial difficulties.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Paramaribo Zoo open?
The Paramaribo Zoo officially opened its doors in May 1972. Its establishment was an initiative spearheaded by prime-minister Jopie Pengel.
What is unique about the animals at Paramaribo Zoo?
A distinctive feature of the Paramaribo Zoo is that about 75% of its animal collection consists of local wild animals. These animals were often confiscated or were previously kept as pets.
Are all the animals at the zoo native to Suriname?
With the exception of tigers, all animals housed at the Paramaribo Zoo are native to Suriname. This reflects a strong focus on local wildlife.
What happened to the zoo's collection in the 1980s?
During the military dictatorship of Bouterse in the 1980s, a significant portion of the zoo's animal collection was lost. The exact circumstances and reasons for this loss are not detailed.
What kind of support has the Paramaribo Zoo received?
In 2003, the zoo received support from Diergaarde Blijdorp in Rotterdam. Further support came in 2004 through a benefit evening organized by Blijdorp and Natura Artis Magistra in Amsterdam.
When was the zoo renovated and reopened?
The Paramaribo Zoo underwent renovations and was officially reopened on May 28, 2006. The reopening ceremony was conducted by president Venetiaan.
What are some of the animals found at the Paramaribo Zoo?
The zoo's collection includes various species of monkeys, caymans, a jaguar, snakes, vultures, a tiger, and scarlet ibisses. The construction of monkey islands in 2006 has led to successful spider monkey births.
Is the Paramaribo Zoo currently facing financial difficulties?
Yes, as of February 2021, the Paramaribo Zoo is reported to be in serious financial problems. This follows a reconstruction program and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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