Zoo de Doué
The Zoo de Doué, formally known as Bioparc de Doué-la-Fontaine, is a 14-hectare zoo located in Doué-la-Fontaine, France. Opened in 1961, it is distinguished by its unique setting within a former rock quarry, utilizing its natural caves and topography for animal enrichment. The zoo houses approximately 2,000 animals across 130 species and is a member of major zoological associations like EAZA and WAZA.
Key Facts
- ›Covers an area of 14 hectares (35 acres).
- ›Established in 1961.
- ›Home to approximately 2,000 individual animals.
- ›Represents around 130 different species.
- ›Located on the site of a former shelled sedimentary rock quarry, utilizing its landscape for animal enrichment.
- ›Changed its name to Bioparc de Doué-la-Fontaine in 2011.
Safari Serpent, Island For Spider Monkeys, Naturoscope, Falun Valley, La Grande VolièRe Sud-AméRicaine, Sanctuaire Des Okapis, Le CratèRe Des Carnivores
Kaa
About Zoo de Doué
The Zoo de Doué, formally known as the Bioparc de Doué-la-Fontaine, is a zoological park situated in Doué-la-Fontaine, Maine-et-Loire, France. Established in 1961, the zoo spans 14 hectares (35 acres) and is recognized for its unique integration within a former shelled sedimentary rock quarry. This distinctive landscape has been leveraged to create naturalistic enclosures that offer animal enrichment, including caves, lookout points, and elevated nesting sites.
History and Development
The zoo was inaugurated in 1961. A significant early attraction was Kaa, a giant python acquired by founder Louis Gay in 1964, which remained a popular exhibit for over a decade. The park introduced a "Safari Serpent" attraction in 1971, though it was later closed in 1977. A notable shift towards primate welfare occurred in 1981 with the creation of the first island habitat for spider monkeys, moving them out of cages. The zoo also engaged in conservation partnerships, opening the Naturoscope in 1989 in collaboration with WWF.
Following a period of administrative closure and the retirement of Louis Gay in 1999, the zoo continued to evolve. The 2000s saw the development of specialized habitats, such as the Falun Valley for black rhinos in 2005 and the inauguration of the Sanctuaire des okapis in 2013. In 2011, the zoo officially changed its name to Bioparc de Doué-la-Fontaine. More recently, in 2020, the park opened Le Cratère des Carnivores, a new space for lions, cheetahs, meerkats, bat-eared foxes, and aardvarks.
Animal Collection and Features
The Zoo de Doué is home to approximately 2,000 individual animals, representing around 130 species. It is an active member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). The zoo's design, utilizing the quarry's natural features, connects various enclosures through old quarry tunnels and pathways, adorned with vines and mosses. This unique environment provides animals with naturalistic settings and opportunities for exploration and hiding.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Zoo de Doué open?
The Zoo de Doué was inaugurated in 1961, making it a long-standing zoological institution.
What is notable about the zoo's landscape?
The zoo is situated on the site of a former rock quarry, and its enclosures are designed to incorporate the natural topography. This includes caves, lookout points, and elevated sites, which are used for animal enrichment and provide hiding places.
What was the zoo's most famous attraction in the past?
In the past, a giant python named Kaa was the zoo's most famous attraction for about twelve years, acquired by founder Louis Gay in 1964.
What significant changes have occurred at the zoo recently?
In 2020, the zoo opened Le Cratère des Carnivores, a new area designed for various carnivores. The zoo also changed its name to Bioparc de Doué-la-Fontaine in 2011.
What conservation partnerships has the zoo had?
In 1989, the Naturoscope exhibition was opened in partnership with WWF, indicating early collaborations with conservation organizations.
Related Zoos
La Palmyre Zoo
La Palmyre Zoo, established in 1966 by Claude Caillé, is a prominent zoological park located in Les Mathes, Charente-Maritime, France. Spanning 18 hectares, it houses over 1600 animals from 145 species, making it one of France's most visited zoos and a significant contributor to regional tourism and conservation efforts.
Parc Zoologique de Lunaret
Parc Zoologique de Lunaret, also known as Montpellier Zoo, is a French zoological park located in the northern part of Montpellier. Established in 1964, it spans 80 hectares and houses approximately 170 animals from 29 different species, making it one of France's most visited zoos due to its free entry. The zoo is financed by the city of Montpellier and managed by Marine Baconnais since 2023.
Paris Zoological Park
The Paris Zoological Park, also known as the Vincennes Zoo, is a facility of the National Museum of Natural History located in the Bois de Vincennes. Opened in 1934, it is distinguished by its iconic 65-meter high artificial "Big Rock" and a tropical rainforest greenhouse, designed to allow for the observation of animal behavior in environments mimicking their natural habitats. Following a significant renovation, the zoo reopened in 2014 with its enclosures reorganized into five major biozones to meet modern animal welfare and conservation standards.