Shoushan Zoo

The Shoushan Zoo, known in Chinese as 壽山動物園 (Shòushān Dòngwùyuán), is a zoological park located in Gushan District, Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Situated on the northern perimeter of Shoushan Park, it serves as a destination for visitors to observe a diverse array of animals from across Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Australia.

History and Development

Shoushan Zoo was established in 1978 and subsequently relocated to its current site in 1986. The zoo is managed by the Scenic Area Administration of Kaohsiung City. In the past, the zoo faced significant challenges, including issues with staff knowledge, animal welfare conditions, and a perceived lack of funding and manpower, leading to its description by visiting experts as the worst government-run zoo in Taiwan. However, a substantial renovation project commenced in 2009, involving NT$150 million in investment. Following five months of reconstruction, the zoo reopened on July 12, 2009, and has since acquired notable animals such as two white tigers.

Exhibitions and Animal Collection

The zoo is organized into various themed exhibition areas designed to showcase different species and simulate natural habitats. These include the Animal Trail, featuring hippopotamuses and sloths; the Apes section with primates like orangutans and gibbons; and an Aquatic Animals area with creatures such as alligator snapping turtles. The Bird Enclosure offers an immersive experience with diverse avian species, while the Chimpanzees area presents an open-air enclosure for these primates. The Cross-habitat Animal Ecotope houses Bengal and white tigers, alongside camels and American bison. The Deer Park, referred to as the 'Little Nara of Shoushan,' allows close viewing of sika deer within a coral reef forest environment. The Formosan Animal Area is dedicated to native Taiwanese wildlife, including Formosan black bears and Taiwan serows. Other areas like the Friendly Animal Area and Kid’s Farm offer interactive experiences with animals such as capybaras, alpacas, and goats. The Savanna Animal Area displays large mammals like African lions, elephants, and rhinoceroses.

Accessibility

Shoushan Zoo is readily accessible by public transport. City Bus No. 56 provides direct service to the zoo. Visitors can also reach the zoo via MRT Yanchengpu Station, taking bus No. 56, or by using the LRT Wenwu Temple Station and then transferring to bus No. 56. An alternative route involves taking Bus 219 to Gushan Administration Center and then walking to the zoo's main entrance.