When you think of zoos, what exactly does come up in your mind? Is it the expectation of animals in cages or enclosures?
Hold your horse - your expectations need to be shifted. Zoos are no longer merely about caged animals; you should now experience something transformational.
11 Reasons to Visit Bandung Zoo
A “modern zoo” conceptualises a more pleasant interaction between the animals and the community and environment. Bandung Zoo, amidst the City of Flowers (Kota Kembang), is a great example of a modern zoo featuring wildlife from around the world. They adhere to a different approach in their serene green environment. Keep scrolling down to read the 11 reasons to visit Bandung Zoo.
Animal breeding programs
Breeding programs are to ensure that endangered species thrive. Bandung Zoo collaborates with other Indonesian zoos for breeding programs as part of their conservation effort and goal to increase genetic diversity. For example, they’ve successfully bred tapirs over the last three years and have had a number of births.
Bandung Zoo had recently participated in a breeding program for endangered species, like the orangutan. Endangered species have specific needs and breeding conditions, therefore, the zoo works closely with other institutions to ensure their welfare. These breeding programs typically last around five years. Yet, it truly depends on the species and the specific agreements. With wildlife, especially rare or endangered species, it’s a slower process.
The zoo continues to be in discussions with other institutions to exchange animals. Trading animals isn’t an option, however, exchanges enrich their collections.
Collaboration with conservation agencies and organisations
Bandung Zoo is a registered institution, and they comply with regulations and laws regarding the protection of wildlife while simultaneously collaborating with various local and international wildlife organisations for educational and conservation purposes.
As part of the Indonesian Zoos Association (PKBKS), which helps guide their activities in line with legal requirements, Bandung Zoo is capable of helping the protection of endangered species, supporting their breeding, and even participating in the rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife.
Engaging petting zoo
For visitors with children, the Petting Zoo is the perfect spot to interact directly with rabbits, chickens, geese, deer, and baby goats. This activity is safe and educational, especially for children who want to get closer to the animal kingdom.
Explore by foot or electronic vehicles
Bandung Zoo is vast. For those of you who enjoy casually strolling, you can definitely explore the zoo on foot. But if you’re not in the mood for that or are visiting with elders in a group of a maximum of five people, rent a buggy to enjoy the lush surroundings for Rp250,000 for 40 minutes. Another option is riding an e-bike for Rp50,000 for 30 minutes.
Feed the animals
Anyone, regardless of age, can feed the animals! For a fee of Rp50,000, you can feed giraffes, deer, binturongs, and even elephants according to their designated feeding hours. The zoo provides the food, whether that is fruits or vegetables. The zookeepers will demonstrate first. Don’t worry, they’ll stick by your side ensuring a safe and fun experience.
Keeper Talk program held on weekends
Every weekend, the Keeper Talk program is conducted. You can learn more about various animals through live interviews with their keepers. This is in line with Bandung Zoo’s animal edutainment initiative as it provides in-depth insights into animal conservation.
Long-term sustainability efforts
For a modern zoo to be sustainable, aside from animal care systems, they also need veterinary support. Bandung Zoo has a clinic as well as quarantine facilities to ensure the health of the animals carried by veterinarians, paramedics, and animal keepers obliging hand-in-hand with the zoo’s conservation efforts.
Their new approach - raising their standards to curate a better experience - attracts visitors who appreciate the educational and conservation aspects of the zoo. This is highlighted by activities such as keeper talks, animal edutainment, and other educational programs.
Striking Bird land
Bird Land is a special area showcasing various species of birds from different countries. From local to exotic birds, Bird Land offers a visually pleasing experience for bird lovers.
Uncaged African animals
Down at the African Zone are open set-ups for herbivores and carnivores. The former is packed with zebras, giraffes, deers, and others harmoniously living together in a plain resembling the African wilderness. The latter, just beside, is where you can see the lion and lioness casually lounging, somewhat similar to their natural setting back in the savannah.
This zone is a crowd favourite, considering a cafe is situated opposite the animals’ sanctuaries. You can take it easy, observing the animals up close while enjoying some refreshments and snapping photos. Sometimes, in the late afternoon, you can even hear the tapir call from the other side of the African Zone—something that many may not have heard before.
West Java’s first zoo
Bandung Zoo was established in 1933 (that’s right, way before Indonesia gained independence) and founded by the Bandung Zoological Park. As the first zoo in West Java, it underwent renovations in 2020 and reopened with various attractions for visitors.
Wildlife conservation centre
Unique experiences where families can bond together are found at Bandung Zoo. Visiting here means you will be educated on the zoo’s role in conservation; comprehending that this site is for both learning and enjoyment, so it’s not just about seeing animals but about respecting them and the environment.
The change of mindset emerged after the pandemic when the realisation of providing a more curated experience for visitors is far more vital. The zoo can therefore maintain its cleanliness and order all while visitors have a meaningful experience.
