ParaZOO, Wildlife rehabilitation center with zoo exhibits in Vlašim, Czech Republic

ParaZOO is a wildlife rescue center in Vlašim with enclosures for injured native species including otters, owls, ravens, and birds of prey. These animals cannot be released back into the wild and live permanently at this location.

ParaZOO opened in June 2012 as an exhibit of the Wildlife Rescue Station of the Czech Union for Nature Conservation (ČSOP) Vlašim, in the town centre. It houses native Czech wildlife that was taken in but cannot be released because of lasting injuries.

The facility was specifically designed to house injured animals while teaching visitors about wildlife protection and prevention of injuries in natural settings. The exhibits show how people can help reduce harm to animals and the role such places play in caring for local species.

ParaZOO sits in the centre of Vlašim, about 60 km south of Prague; buses leave from Roztyly metro station (line C) and trains from Prague's main station with a change at Benešov. By car, take exit 49 off the D1 motorway. Guided tours of the grounds and ecological programmes for schools can be booked.

The otter enclosure has an underground glass viewing window where visitors watch the animals swim. The resident pair Fousek and Kapka often show natural underwater behaviour there.