Lithuanian Zoological Garden (Lithuanian: Lietuvos zoologijos sodas) previously known as Kaunas' Zoological Garden (Kauno zoologijos sodas) is the oldest scientific zoo in Lithuania.[1] It is located in an Ąžuolynas oak grove park in the south-western Žaliakalnis elderate of Kaunas.[2] The territory of the zoo is 15.66 hectares (38.7 acres).

Lithuanian Zoo
Lietuvos zoologijos sodas


Left to right: Zoo main gate • Invertebrates enclosure •
Tropical house • Map of the zoo
Map
54°54′05″N 23°57′05″E / 54.90139°N 23.95139°E / 54.90139; 23.95139
Date openedJuly 1, 1938[1]
LocationKaunas, Gričiupis, Lithuania
Land area15.66 ha (38.7 acres)
No. of animals2166 (2017)
No. of species232 (2017)
Annual visitors154.350 (2016)
MembershipsEAZA, EEP, IZE
Major exhibitsThe aquarium, The Reptile House, The Monkeys House, The Tigers corner, The Birds House
Websitewww.zoosodas.lt
Zoo from above

The zoo was founded by the renowned Lithuanian zoologist Tadas Ivanauskas and opened on 1 July 1938 with 40 animals. His prime objective was to educate the visiting public about nature protection and to promote the conservation of endangered species. Within one year, the number of animal grew to 150. The zoo currently has 2166 animals, and is classed as a medium-size zoo according to European zoo standards. It experienced funding difficulties during the 2000s.[1]Lithuanian zoo was renovated in 2023.

References

edit
  1. ^ a b c Vaige, Laima. "Kaunas – a city for zoo lovers". The Baltic Times. Retrieved 2009-11-09.
  2. ^ "Information about zoo" (in Lithuanian). Kaunas Zoo. Retrieved 2008-05-18.
edit