The zoo functions partly as a sanctuary for displaced exotic animals, including those surrendered by private owners.
It is one of the few places in the Netherlands where visitors can feed nectar to free-flying lorikeets in an indoor habitat.
The location on Texel island makes it the only zoo situated on the largest of the Dutch Wadden Sea islands.
Many of the zoo's residents are species that were previously kept as illegal exotic pets before being rescued.
The indoor tropical hall is designed to maintain high humidity and temperature year-round to mimic natural rainforest environments.
TexelZoo is a small-scale, family-oriented zoological park located on the island of Texel in the Netherlands. The zoo specializes in exotic birds, small mammals, and reptiles, often housing rescued or rehomed animals. Visitors can walk through an indoor tropical hall that houses free-flying lorikeets and various tropical plant species. The facility emphasizes an intimate setting where visitors can get close to animals like meerkats, wallabies, and various species of monkeys. It serves as a rescue center, meaning the animal collection can shift based on current rehabilitation efforts. The grounds are designed to be compact and accessible, catering primarily to families with young children.
The indoor tropical hall, specifically near the feeding stations where birds congregate.
Bring a small container of nectar if available at the entrance to interact directly with the lorikeets.
Wear layers, as the transition from the humid indoor tropical hall to the outdoor enclosures can be significant.
Check the daily presentation schedule upon arrival to see if animal feeding demonstrations are taking place.
Do not attempt to touch animals unless explicitly permitted by staff, as many residents are rescues and may be easily stressed.
Operates on a seasonal basis with extended hours during the spring and summer months; occasionally closed on Mondays during the off-season.
Do not feed animals food brought from outside; follow all posted signage regarding interaction with free-roaming birds.
