Dublin Zoo
Perfect for a family day out, Dublin Zoo is one of the world’s oldest and most popular zoos today. Home to over 600 animals, and spread across 70 acres located in Phoenix Park. Far from a place that’s just for showcasing lots of animals, Dublin Zoo’s focus is on conservation and animal welfare. Its projects include a worldwide programme to breed endangered species. A proud moment back in 2011 was the birth of a baby western lowland gorilla, a critically endangered primate.
The animals
Located in Phoenix Park, travelling through Dublin Zoo takes you on a journey across the globe with its authentic recreations of habitats. From an Asian forest and African plains, to the fringes of the Arctic. Roam the African Savanna and spot giraffes, rhinos and zebras. Monkey around with the gorillas at the Gorilla Rainforest. Then travel through the Kaziranga Forest Trail to spot a herd of Asian elephants. With Asian lion cubs, Sumatran tigers and Sulawesi crested macaques too, it’s a round the world trip not to be missed. You can hop off our Dublin bus tour nearby, so get ready to explore!
Other interesting facts about Dublin Zoo
- The fearsome and famous lion at the beginning and end of early MGM movies (1924 – 1928) was born in Dublin Zoo in 1919 – his name was Slats!
- When Dublin Zoo first opened its doors it was home to a total of 46 mammals and 72 birds - all donated by London Zoo
- During World War II the public donated food to the animals and trees were chopped down to heat the houses
- In 2011 a video filmed at Dublin Zoo of a Bornean orang-utan rescuing a chick from a pond became an internet sensation!
- Dublin Zoo opened its doors in 1831 - in 1844 the zoo received its first giraffe and in 1855 it bought its first pair of lions
