Johannesburg Zoo
The Johannesburg Zoo is a renowned zoological garden located in Johannesburg, South Africa. Spanning an impressive 55 hectares (approximately 140 acres), the zoo is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and plays a significant role in the conservation, education, and recreation within the region.
History
The zoo was officially established in 1904 when land was transferred to the Johannesburg Town Council on March 22. The initial donation of animals came from Sir Percy Fitzpatrick, who contributed his private collection of African wildlife. Fitzpatrick continued to source animals for the zoo until 1912.
The zoo's location and development were part of a larger urban planning initiative, which also included the creation of Zoo Lake and the South African National Museum of Military History. The zoo expanded further into land set aside for the Rand Regiments Memorial for soldiers who perished during the Second Anglo-Boer War.
Features and Facilities
The Johannesburg Zoo is home to approximately 2,000 individual animals representing 320 species. Its facilities are designed to ensure the accommodation, enrichment, husbandry, and medical care of its resident wildlife. Notable constructions completed between 1913 and 1915 include the rhino and elephant houses, as well as the importation of an Asian elephant and camel, which were trained for rides.
Unique to its history, the zoo and the neighboring Zoo Lake were never segregated during Apartheid in South Africa, due to stipulations in the Deed of Gift under which the land was acquired. This makes it one of the few public areas with such a legacy from that era.
Notable Residents
One of the most famous past residents of the zoo was Max, a western lowland gorilla that gained national attention in 1997 when he was shot and wounded by a criminal named Isaac Mofokeng who had entered his enclosure. Max's bravery in the incident made him a celebrated figure and underscored the importance of the zoo's animal care and protection efforts.
Management
The zoo is part of the Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo organization, a not-for-profit entity established under South Africa's Companies Act. This organization is owned by the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality, which manages local governance and oversees various public services, including the maintenance of parks and gardens.
Surroundings and Access
Located in the suburb of Parkview, the Johannesburg Zoo is conveniently positioned by Zoo Lake, creating a scenic environment that enhances the visitor experience. The parkland is part of the Hermann Eckstein Park, a popular leisure destination for both locals and tourists.