Gdansk Zoo, Gdansk

The Gdańsk Zoo is located in the Oliwa district of Gdańsk, Pomeranian Voivodship. Established in 1954, the zoo spans 123.76 hectares, making it the largest zoological garden in Poland by area. The Gdańsk Zoo is a member of both the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), reflecting its high standards and international standing in the zoological community.

The origins of the Gdańsk Zoo trace back to 1927 with a menagerie in Oliwa, which existed until World War II. This early collection included a diverse array of animals such as brown bears, wild boars, giraffes, monkeys, wolves, and raccoons. The zoo's official inauguration occurred on May 1, 1954, in the Leśny Młyn Valley, repurposing the site of a former sanatorium that had specialized in treating respiratory and rheumatic disorders since 1945.

By the 1980s, the zoo boasted a collection of 800 animals across 176 species, demonstrating its expanding scope and commitment to animal care and conservation.

Over the years, the zoo has continually enhanced its facilities and animal collection. Notable developments include the construction of the giraffes' pavilion in 2008, which currently houses four Rothschild's giraffes, and the introduction of new species like leopards, meerkats, takins, and lions of Southwest African origin.

The zoo is home to a variety of rare and exotic species, including scimitar oryxes, pygmy hippopotamuses, jackass penguins, bongos, Bali mynas, mandrills, yellow anacondas, Visayan spotted deer, takins, southern ground hornbills, and Siberian tigers. This diverse collection not only showcases the zoo's commitment to preserving endangered species but also provides visitors with a unique and educational experience.