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One reason zoos are so popular is that they welcome millions of tourists annually from all around the globe. Over hundreds of acres, you can find the largest zoos in the world! A safe haven for rescued animals to enjoy public exhibitions. The animals in a few of the largest zoos may not have access to their natural environment, yet the conservation work they conduct is invaluable. As the most fragile species went extinct at an alarming rate, zoos took on a crucial role in protecting nature. Let’s explore the largest zoos in the world, according to two metrics: the total size of the zoo and the number of species kept there.
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Situated north of Columbus, Ohio, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a zoo run by volunteers. The more than 5,000 animals housed at the Columbus Zoo represent more than 700 different species, which are organized into different areas of the globe. Expansion plans for the 82-acre (37-hectare) zoo began in 2004 and will continue for the next decade. The 120-acre extension will include an African savanna and a polar habitat. It is one of the most captivating and largest zoos in the world!
Moscow Zoological Garden
The Moscow Zoo is 53 acres big and has been welcoming visitors since 1864. It is one of the oldest zoos in Europe and one of the biggest zoos in the world. In addition to housing over 6,000 animals from 927 species, the Moscow Zoo also has a footbridge that links the two halves of the zoo and a plethora of other kid-friendly activities. Amazing creatures, such as white tigers, also call the Moscow Zoo home. The zoo's expansion in the 1990s allowed for the addition of a sea lion display, an aquarium, and more space on land. In addition to housing endangered animals, the zoo conducts research on their behaviour and reproduction.
San Diego Zoo
With more than 800 species represented and more than 4,000 animals, the San Diego Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world. The San Diego City Government has agreed to lease the 100 acres (40 hectares) of parks. Almost all of the main exhibits at the San Diego Zoo are outdoors, and the sunny marine environment of southern California is perfect for many species. Many species are born in captivity at the San Diego Zoo with the intention of releasing them into their natural habitats when the time is right. The zoo is also highly involved in preservation and conservation activities.
Bronx Zoo
With 265 acres (107 hectares) of parkland and naturalistic habitats, the Bronx Zoo in New York City is the largest urban zoo in the US, having opened in 1899. With almost 4,000 animals representing 650 species, the zoo protects a number of species that are in risk of extinction. At the Bronx Zoo, you may find zoo exhibits organised geographically, such as Wild Asia and African Plains, and zoo exhibits organised by taxonomy, like World of Birds and World of Reptiles.
Toronto Zoo
The Toronto Zoo is one of the biggest zoos in the world, spanning over 710 acres over seven different geographic locations. It is also the biggest zoo in Canada. Over 16,000 animals, representing 491 species, call the zoo, a major tourist destination, home. The Toronto Zoo is renowned as Canada's top zoo because to its operational soundness. It was founded in 1966 by Mr. Hugh A Crothers, who was subsequently appointed chairman for the Metro Zoological Society. Indo-Malaysia, Africa, the Americas, the Tundra Trek, Australasia, Eurasia, and the Canadian Domain are the seven geographical areas into which the animal kingdom is subdivided. In addition to keeper experiences and animal enrichment presentations, the activities here aim to maximise visitor interaction and bring people closer to animals.
Berlin Zoological Garden
Germans go to the Berlin Zoological Garden, the country's oldest and most famous zoo, which first welcomed visitors in 1844. Its location in Berlin's Tiergarten gives it 84 acres (34 hectares) of space. The world's greatest collection of species is on display at the zoo, which is home to over 17,000 creatures representing over 1,500 species. Notable zoo residents include the arctic bear Knut and the giant panda Bao Bao.
Henry Doorly Zoo
With almost 17,000 animals representing 962 species, the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha is the most popular paid attraction in Nebraska. On more than 130 acres (53 hectares) of land, it is located. When looking at the total number of species and the whole area of the zoo, the Henry Doorly Zoo is unrivaled. This is why it is said to be the biggest zoo in the planet. Along with the biggest indoor swamp, largest indoor desert, and largest glazed geodesic dome in the globe, it boasts the largest cat complex in North America.