Zoo da Maia, Zoological park in Maia, Portugal
Zoo da Maia is a zoological park located north of Porto with distinct sections dedicated to different animal groups including birds, primates, big cats, and marine species. The facility spans around 2.5 hectares and houses over 300 animals representing numerous species from various continents.
Founded in 1985, the facility started as a small collection of animals and gradually expanded into a larger zoological park. This growth reflected the region's increasing focus on wildlife conservation and environmental awareness.
The zoo serves as an educational hub for the surrounding community, where visitors of all ages encounter animals from distant habitats and learn about their ecosystems and behavior.
The park is easily accessible by public transport from Porto with regular connections throughout the day. Morning and late afternoon visits offer the best chance to see the animals active and moving about the grounds.
The entrance features a free-access area with flamingos, crowned cranes, and parrots before the main paid grounds begin. This introductory section allows visitors to observe tropical birds without purchasing an admission ticket.
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