The facility serves as a registered screening and rehabilitation center for wild animals seized by environmental authorities.
The grounds contain a significant portion of remnant Atlantic Forest vegetation, a highly threatened biome in Brazil.
The park operates a specialized program for the conservation and protection of native Brazilian avian species.
It serves as a permanent home for animals that have suffered injuries preventing their survival in the wild.
The botanical portion of the park is used for research on the acclimatization of native tree species to urban heat island effects.
The Zoobotânico Municipal de São José do Rio Preto functions as a combined zoological and botanical park, emphasizing the preservation of regional fauna and flora. It serves as an environmental education hub within the urban landscape of São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo. The facility maintains a collection of animals, many of which are rescue cases or rehabilitated wildlife from the surrounding interior region of Brazil. The grounds are characterized by extensive native vegetation, offering a naturalistic habitat for resident species. The park integrates botanical trails with animal enclosures, facilitating direct interaction with the local ecosystem. It acts as a permanent shelter for species unable to return to the wild, while conducting research on animal welfare and conservation biology. Educational programs for local schools are a primary focus of the facility's mission.
The elevated observation decks overlooking the larger herbivore enclosures.
Bring a high-quality insect repellent, as the dense vegetation and water features attract mosquitoes.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes to navigate the unpaved trail sections effectively.
Bring a refillable water bottle, as walking the full trail length can be physically demanding under the local sun.
Avoid visiting during the peak heat of the afternoon, when many animals seek shade and become inactive.
Closed on Mondays for maintenance and animal care protocols.
Maintain silence near animal enclosures, refrain from feeding the animals, and do not use camera flashes.