The nursery serves as a critical gene pool bank for species that are difficult to breed in the highly visited urban environment of the main Moscow Zoo.
It covers a significant expanse of 200 hectares, providing enough space for large roaming animals and secluded nesting sites for sensitive bird species.
The facility is internationally recognized for its success in breeding the Steller's sea eagle, one of the largest birds of prey in the world.
It acts as a rehabilitation sanctuary for animals rescued from the illegal wildlife trade or those suffering from injuries that prevent reintroduction to the wild.
The environment at the nursery is intentionally designed to minimize human presence, which is a major factor in the success of breeding sensitive species.
Many animals housed here are part of the 'European Endangered Species Programme' (EEP) to maintain genetic diversity in captivity.
The Moscow Zoo Nursery near Sychevo is a specialized facility primarily dedicated to the breeding, rehabilitation, and long-term maintenance of rare animal species that require vast, secluded spaces. Spanning over 200 hectares of natural terrain, it serves as a critical off-site extension of the main Moscow Zoo, focusing on wildlife conservation and scientific research. The center houses populations of endangered birds, such as the Steller's sea eagle, and rare hoofed mammals like the Przewalski's horse. Unlike the public zoo in central Moscow, this facility prioritizes animal welfare and breeding success over public display, resulting in larger enclosures that mimic natural habitats. Visitors may access the facility during organized group excursions, which provide an opportunity to observe animals in a more authentic, low-stress environment. The nursery is situated within the Volokolamsky district of the Moscow region, providing a rural habitat far from the city's urban density.
The designated observation platforms overlooking the large ungulate paddocks.
Contact the main Moscow Zoo administrative office well in advance to confirm available group tour dates, as spontaneous individual visits are generally not supported.
Wear sturdy, mud-resistant footwear as the terrain consists of unpaved trails and natural forest pathways.
Bring binoculars, as the expansive nature of the enclosures means animals are often observed from a significant distance.
Do not attempt to visit without a pre-arranged group booking, as the facility is a restricted scientific area and not an open-access park.
Visits are strictly by appointment only via the official Moscow Zoo reservation system; the site may be closed to the public during sensitive breeding seasons.
Maintain silence near enclosures to avoid stressing the animals; professional camera equipment may require prior authorization.
