Zoo and Botanical Garden of Branféré
The Zoo and Botanical Garden of Branféré is a 35-hectare zoological park and botanical garden located in Le Guerno, Morbihan, Brittany, France. Originally a private estate, it was transformed into an "animal paradise" where exotic animals roam freely, opening to the public in 1965 and later bequeathed to the Fondation de France. It now houses nearly 1,000 animals from around 150 species within a historic botanical garden setting.
Key Facts
- ›Spans 35 hectares (86 acres).
- ›Opened to the public in 1965 after decades of development.
- ›Houses nearly 1,000 animals representing approximately 150 species.
- ›Features a centuries-old botanical garden with around 70 species of trees and shrubs.
- ›Home to the Nicolas Hulot School for Nature and Man, established in 2004.
About Zoo and Botanical Garden of Branféré
The Zoo and Botanical Garden of Branféré, known in French as Parc animalier et botanique de Branféré, is a significant zoological park and botanical garden situated in Le Guerno, Morbihan, within the Brittany region of France. Covering an expansive 35 hectares (86 acres), the park offers visitors a unique experience to observe a diverse collection of animals roaming freely within a centuries-old botanical garden.
History and Development
The estate at Branféré has a long history, initially serving as a private domain from 1662 until 1988. A château was constructed on the property in 1848 by the Freslon family. The estate was acquired in 1884 by Casimir Jourde, and it was his grandson, Paul, a wildlife painter and world traveler, who envisioned the transformation of Branféré. Inspired by a game reserve he encountered in Kutch, India, Paul and his wife, Hélène Castori, began in the 1930s to create an "animal paradise." Their goal was to establish a park where exotic animals from around the globe could acclimatize and coexist with humans in a natural setting.
Public Opening and Philanthropy
After approximately thirty years of dedicated development, the park officially opened its gates to the public in 1965. This marked a new era for Branféré, allowing wider access to its unique blend of wildlife and horticulture. In 1988, the park's ownership was transferred through a bequest to the Fondation de France, ensuring its continued operation and development under a philanthropic framework.
Wildlife and Botanical Collections
Today, the Zoo and Botanical Garden of Branféré is home to nearly 1,000 animals, representing approximately 150 different species. The collection includes a variety of mammals such as antelope, gibbons, hippopotamus, lemurs, llamas, prairie dogs, tapirs, wallabies, zebras, and yaks. Avian life is also well-represented with flamingos, parrots, pelicans, and storks. These animals inhabit carefully designed landscapes that feature prairies, waterfalls, and small islands, enhancing the immersive experience for visitors.
The botanical aspect of Branféré is equally rich, with grounds that have showcased botanical plantings since the 18th century. The garden currently boasts around 70 species of trees and shrubs, including notable specimens like araucaria, azaleas, camellias, laricio pines, rhododendrons, and sequoia. A particular highlight is a 300-year-old weeping tree, recognized as one of the remarkable trees in France.
Educational Initiatives
In addition to its role as a zoological and botanical attraction, Branféré is committed to environmental education. In 2004, the Fondation de France, in collaboration with the Fondation Nicolas Hulot pour la Nature et l'Homme and the commune of Muzillac, established the Nicolas Hulot School for Nature and Man at the park. This institution is dedicated to fostering an understanding and appreciation of nature and its importance for human well-being.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Zoo and Botanical Garden of Branféré?
The Zoo and Botanical Garden of Branféré is a 35-hectare zoological park and botanical garden located in Le Guerno, Morbihan, Brittany, France. Visitors can observe animals roaming freely within its historic botanical garden.
When did the park open to the public?
The park opened to the public in 1965, following approximately thirty years of development to create an "animal paradise" where exotic animals could acclimatize and roam free.
How many animals and species are at Branféré?
The park currently houses almost 1,000 animals, representing nearly 150 different species. These include a variety of mammals, birds, and other creatures set within diverse landscapes.
What is notable about the botanical garden at Branféré?
The grounds feature a centuries-old botanical garden with botanical plantings dating back to the 18th century. It contains about 70 species of trees and shrubs, including a 300-year-old weeping specimen recognized as a remarkable tree in France.
What educational facilities are available at the park?
The Nicolas Hulot School for Nature and Man was created at Park Branféré in collaboration with the Fondation de France and the commune of Muzillac. It has been open since 2004, focusing on nature and human interaction.
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