Limburg Zoo

The animal facility stretched across multiple acres in the Genk municipality, housing over 1000 different animals in various enclosures and habitats.

The Wouters family established this private zoo in May 1970, starting with 200 animals and expanding rapidly to accommodate more than 1000 specimens by 1973.

The facility influenced local discussions about animal welfare standards and contributed to the development of stricter regulations for animal housing in Belgium.

The zoo operated without government subsidies or external sponsorships, relying entirely on private funding and visitor entrance fees for its maintenance.

Following a 1994 BBC documentary that highlighted concerns about animal conditions, the zoo faced increasing pressure that led to its closure in 1997.

Inception: 1970

GPS coordinates: 51.01300,5.49408

Latest update: March 19, 2025 21:10