The zoo is home to the Stichting Leeuw foundation, which specializes in the rehabilitation of circus and sanctuary big cats.
The park features a specialized hunting simulator to help captive big cats regain the muscle mass and predatory instincts needed for potential relocation to larger reserves.
Hoenderdaell collaborates with the AAP Foundation to rehabilitate primates rescued from the illegal pet trade.
The zoo grounds include a large walk-through aviary where visitors can observe native and exotic bird species at close range.
Several species, such as ring-tailed lemurs, live in semi-free conditions where they can roam near visitor pathways.
The zoo actively rescues and rehabilitates injured native wildlife, including birds of prey and hedgehogs, at their dedicated hospital facility.
The park contains a specifically designed 'tiger lake' to encourage natural swimming and movement behaviors in rescued tigers.
Hoenderdaell Zoo is a wildlife park and animal welfare organization located in the northern Netherlands, distinguished by its strong focus on the rehabilitation of rescued animals. It houses a diverse collection of exotic species, including tigers, lemurs, and wallabies, while serving as a primary sanctuary for animals formerly used in circuses or illegal trade. The park spans a large, wooded estate, allowing animals to live in spacious, naturalistic enclosures. A central feature is the 'Stichting Leeuw' (Lion Foundation) project, which provides professional rehabilitation and retirement facilities for big cats. Visitors can observe daily activities such as the training and enrichment sessions for these predators. The layout emphasizes walking paths that wind through forested areas and ponds, creating an immersive forest experience. Conservation education is integrated throughout the site, highlighting the plight of the animals housed within. The park remains active in international wildlife rescue missions.
The elevated viewing platforms overlooking the tiger enclosures, which offer unobstructed views of the cats interacting with their environment.
Check the schedule for the big cat feeding or training sessions, as these are the most interactive parts of the visitor experience.
Wear sturdy, comfortable footwear suitable for walking on unpaved forest trails.
Keep a respectful distance from the free-roaming animals, as they are wildlife and not domesticated pets.
Do not expect a traditional high-intensity zoo experience with constant animal performance; this is primarily a sanctuary where rest and rehabilitation take precedence.
Open daily throughout the year, including public holidays.
Do not feed any of the animals, as they follow strict, medically monitored diets. Remain on designated paths to avoid disturbing wildlife.
