Moscow Zoo

Interesting facts

1. 1

   It survived the 1905 and 1917 revolutions, with heavy fighting occurring on the grounds during the former.

2. 2

   The zoo's iconic stone bridge was built in the 1990s to connect the two territories across the street.

3. 3

   It manages the 'Exotarium' marine aquarium, which specializes in coral reef ecosystems.

4. 4

   The zoo has historically maintained a significant breeding program for Pallas's cats, a rare feline species.

5. 5

   During the Second World War, the zoo remained open, and staff moved animals into the basements during air raids.

6. 6

   The zoo features a historical Art Nouveau gate structure at the main entrance.

7. 7

   It was one of the first zoos in the world to successfully breed honey badgers in captivity.

Overview

Founded in 1864, the Moscow Zoo is one of the oldest in Europe and occupies 21 hectares in the city center. It houses over 8,000 animals representing more than 1,000 species. The site is divided into two distinct parts, the Old and New Territories, connected by a pedestrian bridge across Bolshaya Gruzinskaya Street. Notable exhibits include the House of Birds, the Primates pavilion, and a dedicated nocturnal animal wing. The zoo participates in various international programs for the conservation of endangered species. It functions as a research and educational institution while maintaining extensive landscaping within the urban park environment.

Insider tips

• Wear comfortable, broken-in walking shoes to manage the expansive, hilly terrain.

• Prioritize visiting one territory per trip, as the site is too large to fully appreciate in a single visit.

• Check the digital boards near the entrances for daily animal feeding schedules.