Ever wondered where animals rescued from the illegal wildlife trade find a safe haven? That place is the Quito Zoo.
Welcome to the Quito Zoo, more formally known as the Guayllabamba Zoo. This isn’t your typical zoo. It’s a rescue and rehabilitation center first and foremost. The Quito Zoo operates primarily as a sanctuary. It takes in animals that can no longer survive in the wild. Many of these animals were once someone’s illegal pet. When people realize owning these creatures is against the law, they often abandon them here. By then, the animals are too accustomed to human interaction to be released.
Unlike some zoos that import exotic animals for profit, Quito Zoo focuses on Ecuador’s native species. With the exception of lions and ostriches. From the Galapagos Islands to the Amazon rainforest, Ecuador has incredible biodiversity. The Quito Zoo showcases this richness.
Here, you will find iconic South American species. See Galapagos tortoises basking in muddy yards. Marvel at jaguars prowling their jungle habitat. You might be surprised that their enclosure has an open top. US jaguar keepers would shudder at the thought. Spot Andean bears, tapirs, and pumas too.
Don’t miss Ecuador’s national bird, the Andean condor. They live in a massive flight cage built into a hillside. From here, they have a commanding view of the grounds.
One of the best parts about visiting the Quito Zoo is seeing animals rarely found in American zoos. Keep an eye out for crab-eating raccoons and black-and-chestnut buzzard eagles. You might even spot brown woolly monkeys.
The Quito Zoo’s enclosures are impressive. Many are exciting and interactive. One highlight is the mixed-species walk-through owl aviary. Even the reptile collection is fascinating. Boas and iguanas lounge in trees. Turtles swim past caiman in a greenhouse.
The staff here are passionate and knowledgeable. The Quito Zoo specializes in native species. It offers urban populations a chance to connect with their natural heritage. This is especially important in a country facing challenges from the wild pet trade. Many animals at the zoo, especially monkeys and parrots, were taken from the wild. They could not be rehabilitated.
Many animals at the Quito Zoo have incredible stories. Some Galapagos tortoises arrived after being fed Coke and cookies. Their shells were badly damaged due to the poor diet. Some Black Chested Eagles were shot with BB guns. One had a bullet lodged in its neck. The Quito Zoo’s vets were able to remove it. The bird recovered fully.
The Quito Zoo receives no government support. It relies solely on visitors for income. Your visit here directly contributes to the rescue and rehabilitation of Ecuador’s precious wildlife. Remember, you are not just visiting a zoo. You are supporting a vital conservation effort.