Nature Blogger logoNature Blogger

Tarsus Zoo

Tarsus Zoo is a zoological park located in Tarsus, Mersin Province, Turkey. Established in its current location in 2013, it is a significant urban zoo that replaced a smaller, criticized facility. The zoo serves as a public attraction and a space for animal exhibition within the region.

Key Facts

  • The zoo is located in Tarsus ILçe (district) of Mersin Province, Turkey.
  • It covers an area of 110 decares (approximately 0.042 sq MI or 0.11 km2).
  • The current Tarsus Zoo was opened on December 27, 2013.
  • It houses 81 species, with a zebra being the most recent addition.
  • An elephant and a giraffe are expected to arrive in the near future.
Tarsus Zoo
Founding Year
2013
Number Of Species
81
Location City
Tarsus

About Tarsus Zoo

Tarsus Zoo, known in Turkish as Tarsus Hayvanat Bahçesi, is a zoological institution located in the Tarsus district of Mersin Province, Turkey. Its establishment in its current location marks a significant development for the region's public spaces for animal exhibition and education.

History and Development

The history of Tarsus Zoo includes an earlier, smaller facility established by the municipality of Tarsus in 1999. This initial zoo, described by animal rights activists as more of a "prison" than a zoo due to its limited space and few animals, was eventually relocated. The current zoo opened its doors on December 27, 2013, situated in the northern part of the urban area. Its location is notable, being south of the Berdan Dam reservoir and a popular picnic area, with its entrance situated beneath the viaduct of Turkish motorway O.53. The zoo is approximately 30 kilometers from the city of Mersin.

Collection and Facilities

Tarsus Zoo's current iteration spans 110 decares, providing a more expansive environment than its predecessor. The zoo houses a collection of 81 species, with the zebra being the most recent addition. Plans are in place to expand the collection further, with an elephant and a giraffe anticipated to arrive soon. The zoo operates with specific opening hours, from 9 AM to 5 PM, extending to 6 PM during summer months, and charges an admission fee of TL 8.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Tarsus Zoo located?

Tarsus Zoo is situated in the Tarsus district of Mersin Province, Turkey. It is located in the northern part of the urban area, south of the Berdan Dam reservoir and a picnic area.

When was the current Tarsus Zoo opened?

The current Tarsus Zoo was officially opened on December 27, 2013. This facility replaced a much smaller zoo established by the municipality in 1999.

What is the size of Tarsus Zoo?

Tarsus Zoo covers an area of 110 decares, which is equivalent to approximately 0.11 square kilometers or 0.042 square miles.

How many species are at Tarsus Zoo?

As of the latest information, Tarsus Zoo is home to 81 different species. The zebra was the most recent species to be added to the collection.

Are there plans to add more animals to Tarsus Zoo?

Yes, there are plans for new arrivals at Tarsus Zoo. An elephant and a giraffe are expected to join the zoo in the near future.