Tábor Zoo
Tábor Zoo is a zoological garden located in Tábor, Czech Republic, established in May 2015. It is the largest zoo in the South Bohemian Region, covering 10 hectares, and is notable for its focus on the protection of endangered species. The zoo actively participates in conservation efforts, including the reintroduction of European bison into the wild.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in May 2015.
- ›Covers an area of 10 hectares, making it the largest zoo in the South Bohemian Region.
- ›Houses over 500 animals from 80 species.
- ›Approximately one quarter of its species are classified as endangered by CITES.
- ›Actively involved in breeding programs for European bison reintroduction.
- ›Conducts scientific research, particularly on the genetics of European bison, American bison, and Cane Corso dogs.
Siberian Tiger, American Black Bear, Brown Bear, Arctic Wolf, Great Grey Owl, Snowy Owl, Eurasian Eagle-Owl, Fossa, White Cape Lion, European Bison
European Bison Reintroduction
About Tábor Zoo
Tábor Zoo is a zoological garden situated in the southeastern part of Tábor, within the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. Established in May 2015, it holds the distinction of being the largest zoo in its region, encompassing an area of 10 hectares.
History and Operations
The current iteration of Tábor Zoo emerged from the ashes of a previous organization, Zoologická zahrada Tábor-Větrovy, which ceased operations in spring 2015 due to financial issues. The zoo was re-established as Zoologická zahrada Tábor a. s. under new ownership, with Evžen Korec, director of the residential development company EKOSPOL, taking charge. The zoo reopened its doors to the public on June 30, 2015. It experienced a strong initial reception, attracting 25,000 visitors in its first month and over 70,000 in 2016, with visitor numbers reaching 111,000 by 2023.
Conservation and Species Collection
A core mission of Tábor Zoo is the protection of endangered species. Its collection features over 500 animals representing 80 different species. A significant portion of these, approximately one quarter, are species classified as endangered under the CITES Convention. Notable endangered animals housed at the zoo include the Siberian tiger, American black bear, Brown bear, Arctic wolf, Great grey owl, Snowy owl, Eurasian eagle-owl, Fossa, and White cape lion.
European Bison Reintroduction
In 2016, Tábor Zoo launched a significant conservation initiative focused on the reintroduction of European bison into the wild. This effort is part of a broader Europe-wide endeavor. The zoo constructed a new enclosure of approximately 0.5 hectares to facilitate breeding. They specifically chose to breed the genetically valuable Lowland line of European bison, considered more suitable for reintroduction. In May 2016, four female bison were acquired from Nuremberg Zoo and Usedom Island Nature Park. A breeding bull, Poczekaj, was added to the program in November 2016 from Poland.
Scientific Research
Beyond its role as a public zoo and conservation center, Tábor Zoo hosts a dedicated scientific research group. This group's work predominantly centers on the genetic study of three mammal species: Cane Corso dogs, European bison, and American bison. Their research has led to published articles detailing trait inheritance, such as coat color in Cane Corso dogs, and is currently investigating the genetic factors contributing to longevity within these species.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Tábor Zoo founded?
Tábor Zoo was founded in May 2015. It continued as a new company after a previous organization with a similar name faced financial difficulties and shut down in the spring of 2015.
What is the size of Tábor Zoo?
Tábor Zoo spans 10 hectares, making it the largest zoological garden in the South Bohemian Region.
What is the main focus of Tábor Zoo?
The zoo's primary focus is on the protection of endangered species. It aims to conserve and breed animals that are at risk of extinction.
What endangered species can be found at Tábor Zoo?
Tábor Zoo houses endangered species such as the Siberian tiger, American black bear, Brown bear, Arctic wolf, Great grey owl, Snowy owl, Eurasian eagle-owl, Fossa, and White cape lion.
Is Tábor Zoo involved in conservation programs?
Yes, Tábor Zoo is actively involved in conservation. A significant program is the breeding of European bison for reintroduction into the wild, focusing on the genetically valuable Lowland line.
What kind of scientific research is conducted at Tábor Zoo?
The zoo hosts a scientific research group that primarily studies the genetics of Cane Corso dogs, European bison, and American bison. Their research includes trait inheritance and the genetic basis of longevity.
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