Parque Municipal Summit
Parque Municipal Summit is a botanical garden and wildlife rehabilitation center located in central Panama, near Panama City. Originally established as an experimental farm, it evolved to include a zoo displaying animals that cannot be returned to the wild, and is home to approximately 300 animals, including the national bird of Panama, the harpy eagle.
Key Facts
- ›Established in 1923 as the Experimental Farm Summit.
- ›Total park area is 250 hectares (620 acres).
- ›The botanical garden section covers 55 hectares (140 acres).
- ›Home to approximately 300 animals.
- ›Features the harpy eagle, Panama's national bird.
- ›Introduced teak to the American continent.
Harpy Eagle Enclosure
Harpy Eagle
- Wildlife rehabilitation for exotic and native wildlife
About Parque Municipal Summit
Parque Municipal Summit, also known as Summit Municipal Park, is a significant zoological and botanical institution located in central Panama, adjacent to Soberania National Park and a short drive from Panama City. The park spans a total area of 250 hectares (620 acres), with 55 hectares (140 acres) specifically dedicated to its botanical garden.
History and Development
The origins of Parque Municipal Summit trace back to 1923 when it was established as the Experimental Farm Summit by the former company of the Panama Canal. Its primary role was to evaluate the adaptability of diverse plant species from around the globe to Panama's tropical environment. Notably, this experimental farm was instrumental in introducing teak to the American continent.
A significant development occurred in the 1960s with the establishment of a small zoo within the Botanical Garden. This zoo has since expanded considerably and now houses approximately 300 animals. The park's land was later transferred back to Panama as part of the Torrijos–Carter Treaties. In 1980, it became part of the Soberania National Park, and by 1985, the area was placed under the administration of the Mayor’s office of Panama, officially becoming a Municipal Park and a Botanical Garden, further developing its role as a research center for tropical biology and horticulture.
Botanical Garden and Wildlife
The botanical garden features a wide array of plant species from tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, alongside native Panamanian flora. Many of these plants possess beneficial uses for humans, serving as sources of food, medicine, construction materials, or ornamental value.
The zoo section of Parque Municipal Summit is a facility for the rescue and rehabilitation of both native and exotic wildlife. Animals that cannot be returned to the wild are displayed to the public in a well-maintained zoo environment. Among the animals housed are sloths, squirrels, alligators, owls, coyotes, gray herons, jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, pumas, and foxes. A particularly celebrated resident is the harpy eagle, the national bird of Panama, which is a major attraction for visitors.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the original purpose of Parque Municipal Summit?
Parque Municipal Summit was created in 1923 as the Experimental Farm Summit by the former company of the Panama Canal. Its initial purpose was to test the adaptation of plant species from various parts of the world to Panama's tropical climate.
When did a zoo begin at Parque Municipal Summit?
A small zoo was started within the Botanical Garden in the 1960s. The zoo has grown gradually over the years and is now home to around 300 animals.
What is a notable animal attraction at the zoo?
One of the main attractions at the zoo is the harpy eagle, which is also the national bird of Panama. The zoo houses a variety of other animals including sloths, jaguars, monkeys, and parrots.
What is the total area of the park?
The Parque Municipal Summit encompasses a total area of 250 hectares, which is equivalent to 620 acres. Of this, 55 hectares are dedicated to the botanical garden.
How did Parque Municipal Summit become a municipal park?
Following the Torrijos–Carter Treaties, the land was transferred back to Panama. In 1985, the area was transferred to the administration of the Mayor’s office of Panama, officially establishing it as a Municipal Park and a Botanical Garden.
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