Brno Zoo is a zoological garden in Brno which, by its own description, is among the important zoological gardens of the Czech Republic. It was officially founded in 1953 and stands on Mniší hora in the district of Bystrc.[1]
Foundation
The idea of establishing a zoological garden in Brno appeared already before the Second World War, but it was realised only after it. The rugged terrain with a view of the Brno Reservoir provided, according to the garden's website, enough space for further development. The first exhibits were created gradually and at the time were rather modest, yet the garden soon won the favour of visitors.[1]
The 1960s to 1980s
In the following decades both the grounds and the animal collection expanded. According to its description, the zoo took shape as a classical zoological garden of that time and presented a variety of species from different parts of the world. New enclosures, pavilions and technical facilities were created; at the same time more modern approaches began to prevail, with greater emphasis on space, natural environment and animal welfare.[1]
The period after 1989
According to the garden's website, the social changes after 1989 fundamentally changed the functioning of Czech zoos. Brno Zoo began to invest in modernising the grounds, reconstructing older exhibits and creating new themed areas. The emphasis shifted from merely displaying animals to the protection of endangered species, participation in international conservation programmes and public education. The garden joined cooperation with European and world organisations and coordinated breeding projects.[1]
Current activities
In the 21st century the grounds are developing in the form of themed exhibit areas inspired by natural habitats, with more space for animals and educational features for visitors.[1]
The zoo takes part in European conservation programmes, supports projects at the natural habitats of endangered species and develops environmental education, among other things through the Environmental Education Centre. It is a member of international organisations and, by its own description, is visited by hundreds of thousands of people a year.[1]