Our zoos: guardians of animal biodiversity

At la Ménagerie, le zoo du Jardin des Plantes, our teams look after some 500 individuals specimens of 150 different species, 40% of which are in danger of extinction. As we are concerned about the well-being of our guests, we have reduced the number of animals to give them more space and are replacing large animals with smaller ones, preferably those threatened with extinction. Le Parc zoologique de Paris has 3,000 residents in 250 large families, including the largest herd of giraffes in Europe. Come and admire it! The animals are located in five biozones evoking Patagonia, Africa, Europe, the Amazon and Madagascar. Finally, la Réserve zoologique de la Haute-Touche (Indre) (the Haute-Touche Zoological Reserve) is home to groups of herbivores, living in large areas: more than 1,500 individuals of 120 species from five continents.

While our animals are a joy for young and old alike, looking after them contributes to the conservation of animal biodiversity. In cooperation with an international network of zoos, we keep endangered species alive in their natural habitat. This conservation, known as "ex situ", is defined in the Convention on Biological Diversity, according to the conservation status: conservation breeding, propagation, population reinforcement, reintroductions, gene banks, etc. Our three zoos are involved in numerous European projects (EEP - European Endangered species Programmes) while maintaining the greatest respect for the animals. Our researchers, caretakers and veterinarians see to it! Programmes designed to improve the well-being of our residents are also set up on the basis of ethological studies (animal behaviour), some of which are conducted by our own scientists.

What is the aim here? To create physically and psychologically stimulating environments in which the animals thrive and live purposefully. Come and visit them now!