The zoo is integrated into a 17-hectare fragment of the Atlantic Forest biome, which is rare for an urban city center location.
It operates a specialized wildlife rehabilitation center that accepts injured animals rescued by environmental police and citizens.
The facility functions as a research partner for several regional veterinary and biology university programs.
Many of the permanent residents are survivors of illegal wildlife trafficking or vehicle collisions.
The park serves as an important 'green lung' for the city of Cascavel, significantly impacting local microclimate regulation.
The Municipal Zoo Danilo José Galafassi, also known as the Cascavel Zoo, functions as an environmental education and wildlife rehabilitation center situated within a large urban forest area. It occupies approximately 17 hectares of protected native forest in the Jardim district of Cascavel. The zoo houses a diverse collection of South American fauna, emphasizing the rescue and recovery of injured native species. It serves as a permanent home for animals unable to return to the wild due to health limitations. The grounds feature expansive shaded paths surrounded by dense vegetation, distinguishing it from concrete-heavy urban zoos. The facility operates under strict management guidelines to ensure the welfare and psychological health of its inhabitants. It provides significant opportunities for public observation of local Brazilian wildlife in a semi-natural setting. The site is actively maintained as a regional biodiversity sanctuary.
The elevated observation decks overlooking the larger primate enclosures.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes to navigate the unpaved forest trails.
Bring insect repellent, as the dense forest cover creates an ideal environment for mosquitoes.
Follow all signage strictly, as many animals are in sensitive rehabilitation phases and require minimal human disturbance.
Do not attempt to touch animals or approach fences; do not wander off designated pedestrian trails.
Typically closed on Mondays for maintenance and animal care activities.
Quiet behavior is required to avoid stressing rescued animals; feeding the animals is strictly prohibited.
