Planckendael Zoo, Animal park in Mechelen, Belgium.
Planckendael is a zoo spread across a large property in Mechelen, divided into five sections representing different continents. Each section contains habitats designed to resemble the landscapes where animals naturally live.
The property was home to painter Michiel Coxie in the 16th century before becoming a wildlife sanctuary connected to the Antwerp Zoo in 1960. This transformation started its journey as a place dedicated to animal care and conservation work.
The zoo is a place where visitors encounter animals from around the world and learn how they live in their natural settings. The habitats mirror the landscapes where these creatures come from, helping people understand their daily lives and needs.
Several restaurants throughout the park including Toepaja, Wapiti, and Bonobo offer various meals, with mobile food stands providing quick options. Wear comfortable shoes since the grounds are extensive and explored mostly on foot.
The zoo pioneered bringing storks back to the region, growing the population from just a handful to over one hundred birds. This successful effort demonstrates how such places play a role in returning species to their former habitats.
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