La Palmyre Zoo, Private zoo in Les Mathes, France
La Palmyre Zoo is a private facility spread across a pine forest that houses around 1,600 animals representing over 110 species, including mammals, birds, and reptiles. The enclosures are designed to reflect natural environments where each group of animals lives.
The zoo was founded in 1966 when a pine forest was converted into a modern wildlife facility. Over the decades it has grown into one of the country's most visited animal collections.
The zoo serves as a center for wildlife education in the region, where visitors encounter daily presentations and observe how animals are cared for in settings designed to reflect their natural habitats.
The facility operates year-round with pathways throughout the forest that accommodate different mobility levels. Plan for a full morning or afternoon, as there is enough to see across the various habitats and daily presentations.
The facility runs an active breeding program and collaborates with other European zoos to protect rare species. Hundreds of young animals are born here each year as part of coordinated conservation efforts.
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