Top five zoos in the world
If a humble foreign trip with family is what you are planning, zoos should definitely be a part of the itinerary. Zoos are a great way to get acquainted with the place's aristocratic history, architectural wonder, wildlife conservation, and above all, to enjoy some quality time with your family. Here are top five (and some more) zoos in the world.
Singapore Zoo, Singapore
Located in the midst of the lush Mandai rainforest, the uber-popular and world-class Singapore Zoo, spread over a massive area of 64 acres, boasts of over 2,800 animals from over 300 species of mammals, birds, and reptiles. What's more? Unlike most traditional zoos, this one sticks to open-air exhibits- despite cages, it has meticulously recreated animal habitats that benefit both animals and visitors.
Berlin Zoo, Berlin, Germany
Opened in as early as 1844, the Berlin Zoo is the oldest zoo in the whole of Germany. Home to around 9,500 animals and 1,500 species, it is one of the most species-rich zoos in the world. Not just that, it also houses a huge aquarium (with over 250 tanks on display), stunning grounds to walk around in, and amazing architecture.
London Zoo, London, UK
The London Zoo has a long, prestigious history. Initially serving as an animal research facility, the zoo was opened to public in 1847. It is known to have opened the world's first reptile house, the first public aquarium, and first petting zoo. It has a wide variety of reptiles, gorillas, and more. Further, it features a large Penguin Beach offering some spectacular underwater views.
Beijing Zoo, Beijing, China
Established back in 1906, this zoo has grown substantially from its considerably humble beginnings (with just 12 monkeys, two parrots and a blind emu). Today, it has 950 species of animals residing over its sprawling 219 acres of land. The most popular sights are of Chinese animals- Giant pandas, South China tigers, Chinese Alligators and Chinese Great Salamander.
San Diego Zoo, San Diego, USA
The centuries-old San Diego Zoo is home to some exotic creatures, including the likes of giant pandas, koalas, leopards, elephants, Chinese alligators and more, distributed among their ten different bio-climatic zones. You can literally stroll from an arctic tundra to a rain forest in a matter of minutes. You could also take a tour around its expansive botanical garden having more than 7,00,000 plants.
Other honorable mentions
Other top zoos to visit around the world include Taronga Zoo (Sydney), Schönbrunn Zoo (Vienna, Austria), National Zoological Gardens (Pretoria, South Africa), Bronx Zoo (New York City, USA), Toronto Zoo (Toronto, Canada), and Zoorasia (Yokohama, Japan), among others.
