Parc Zoologique de Lunaret

Parc Zoologique de Lunaret, commonly referred to as Montpellier Zoo, is a public zoological park located in the northern area of Montpellier, a major city within the Occitanie region of France. Situated in the Aiguelongue part of the Hôpitaux-Facultés district, the park also incorporates the Lez nature reserve, offering a blend of curated animal habitats and natural landscapes.

History and Operations

Founded in 1964, Parc Zoologique de Lunaret has grown to encompass 80 hectares. The zoo is entirely financed by and belongs to the city of Montpellier. Since the beginning of 2023, the management of the park has been overseen by Marine Baconnais. A significant factor contributing to its popularity is that entrance to the zoo is free, making it one of the most frequently visited zoological parks in France.

Animal Collection

As of the current information, the zoo houses approximately 170 individual animals, representing a diversity of 29 different species. This collection is maintained within the park's extensive grounds.

The Amazonian Greenhouse

Formerly a notable feature, the Amazonian greenhouse was opened in 2007. This structure, with a footprint of about 2,600 square meters, was designed to simulate seven distinct climatic zones and rainforest habitats. It included a large aviary and featured an artificial rainstorm every two hours to replicate a rainforest environment. However, the greenhouse was closed in 2022. While the zoo has indicated plans for its potential reopening, no specific timeline has been announced. Efforts are currently underway to relocate the remaining exotic species, such as its colony of Seba bats, from the greenhouse premises.