Bioparc Zoo de Doué is a zoo not like the others. It has some 70 species of animals under threat as part of a Species Survival programme and the zoo leads the European Endangered species Programme (EEP).Under the EEP, animals are not captured or bought in. Instead, animals are exchanged between zoos that are members of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA).
Breeding programmes and scientific research, coupled with an adaptive approach to animal care and new developments in the design of enclosures, help to improve the well-being of the animals and contribute towards making zoos more like the animals' natural environment.
What is so special about this zoo is it's setting - ancient quarries, former lime kilns and cathedral-like caves and cellars - the pathways are set out , so you don't miss any of the animals of which there is a great variety. Animals are not in cages but in beautifully designed habitat that separate by rocks, caves or ditches. This make Bioparc Zoo de Doué one of the finest in Europe.
It's maze of rock and lush vegetation makes the visit very enjoyable.. Also, we were able to be up close with some of the animals. I am not talking about rabbits here but Vultures during feeding time. It was definitely the high-light of our visit.
You can get very close to birds. For instance you are free to walk around the huge (15 metre high) aviary.
This makes a good day-out for any family with children. We were there for 3 hours and never once felt too long or too hot or too crowded. As benches are everywhere and a nice restaurant which looking straight over the giraffe enclosure so you are almost dining face to face with one of the gentle giants! And this place doesn't smell! and all the animals look really happy!
Bioparc Zoo de Doué la Fontaine is located in the Loire Valley 15 km south west of Saumur in Maine et Loire.
Entrance fee:
Adults: 17.50 €
Children (3-10 years): 12 €
Free for children under 3 years
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| Life is good here.. |
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