Živalski vrt Ljubljana goji domorodno živalstvo Slovenije in nekaj tujerodnih predstavnikov dvoživk, plazilcev, ptičev in sesalcev. Svoje poslanstvo zaposleni uresnicujejo z izobrazevalnimi, naravovarstvenimi ni znanstveno- raziskovalnimi aktivnostmi.
Ljubljana Zoo was established in 1949. The first cages were placed in the center of Ljubljana, but in 1951, it moved to its current location – the southwest part of Rožnik, covering an area of 19.6 hectares with 6.5 kilometers of walking paths. Since 1988, it has developed into a modern zoo, and the staff strive to provide each animal with a natural environment. Although the natural environment varies from species to species, for all types (about 10), it includes everything the animals need: space for sleeping, sunbathing, bathing, defecating, observing, hiding, and playing.
Ljubljana Zoo cultivates native Slovenian wildlife and some non-native representatives of amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. The staff fulfill their mission through educational, conservation, and scientific research activities.
The set vision is to educate about the conservation of biodiversity through effective conservation programs that raise awareness and connect people with nature, promoting sustainable daily behavior. If zoos in the 20th century focused on displaying animals in the most natural environment with an emphasis on ecology, in the 21st century, nature conservation centers are emerging, showcasing the ecological interdependence between the living and non-living nature and relationships within species. Nature and environmental conservation are crucial. The comprehensive care of animals is provided by professionally trained staff, including well-maintained enclosures, quality food, comprehensive veterinary care, training, daily enrichment, and appropriate peer selection.
Based on all the efforts and directions, the staff’s dedication pays off, as Ljubljana Zoo is visited by around 350,000 visitors annually and more.
