In the realm of zoological parks in Asia, in my opinion one institution stands head and shoulders above the rest: the Taipei Zoo and l was totally suprised to discover this today!
As the only true contender to the title, it effortlessly outshines its only real competitor, the once-renowned Singapore Zoo, which now languishes in dire need of a comprehensive overhaul, you can still have breakfeast with the orangutans... Unlike its counterpart, Taipei Zoo boasts a diverse collection, unparalleled educational resources, and a commitment to excellence and respect for animals that is second to none in Asia.
Since its inauguration on March 28, 1914, Taipei Zoo has continually evolved, embracing a philosophy of naturalistic habitats that mimic the diverse ecosystems found across the globe. Through innovative collaborations with esteemed institutions including Apenheul Zoo in the Netherlands, the zoo has made remarkable strides in conservation efforts, particularly in the breeding of gorillas, enriching the blood lines by sharing there Silverback Bao with Apenheul.
One of the most breathtaking features of Taipei Zoo is its colossal bird aviary, where greater flamingoes take flight against the backdrop of lush foliage. Unlike in traditional zoos, where the wings of captive birds are often clipped, here at Taipei Zoo, these magnificent creatures are free to soar, offering a poignant reminder of the freedom that all living beings deserve.
But it's not just the feathered denizens that captivate the imagination at Taipei Zoo. The huge insectarium where visitors are transported into a realm where the boundaries between observer and observed blur effortlessly. A 2nd open area of several acres with only barriers to keep people on paths is the real treat. In this open environment, devoid of bars or barriers, guests can marvel at the intricate beauty of beetles, dragonflys, butterflies, and other denizens of the insect kingdom as they go about their daily lives with unabashed splendor and the best / most interactive zoo signage l have seen in over 500 zoo's.
The concept Unzoo as suggested by Jon Coe is so perfectly shown here a viable real alternative to enclosures.
The shaded pathways and exhibits has to be included as a highlight of this zoo, as the zoo used both mature trees and canopy structures to provide shade to guests and animals. So many zoo's seem to provide little shade/canopy for animals that in the wild under a dense canopy.
Taipei Zoo stands as a beacon of hope in Asia Through its unwavering dedication to innovation, collaboration, and education, it continues to inspire generations of visitors to cultivate a deeper reverence for the natural world.
As the only true contender to the title, it effortlessly outshines its only real competitor, the once-renowned Singapore Zoo, which now languishes in dire need of a comprehensive overhaul, you can still have breakfeast with the orangutans... Unlike its counterpart, Taipei Zoo boasts a diverse collection, unparalleled educational resources, and a commitment to excellence and respect for animals that is second to none in Asia.
Since its inauguration on March 28, 1914, Taipei Zoo has continually evolved, embracing a philosophy of naturalistic habitats that mimic the diverse ecosystems found across the globe. Through innovative collaborations with esteemed institutions including Apenheul Zoo in the Netherlands, the zoo has made remarkable strides in conservation efforts, particularly in the breeding of gorillas, enriching the blood lines by sharing there Silverback Bao with Apenheul.
One of the most breathtaking features of Taipei Zoo is its colossal bird aviary, where greater flamingoes take flight against the backdrop of lush foliage. Unlike in traditional zoos, where the wings of captive birds are often clipped, here at Taipei Zoo, these magnificent creatures are free to soar, offering a poignant reminder of the freedom that all living beings deserve.
But it's not just the feathered denizens that captivate the imagination at Taipei Zoo. The huge insectarium where visitors are transported into a realm where the boundaries between observer and observed blur effortlessly. A 2nd open area of several acres with only barriers to keep people on paths is the real treat. In this open environment, devoid of bars or barriers, guests can marvel at the intricate beauty of beetles, dragonflys, butterflies, and other denizens of the insect kingdom as they go about their daily lives with unabashed splendor and the best / most interactive zoo signage l have seen in over 500 zoo's.
The concept Unzoo as suggested by Jon Coe is so perfectly shown here a viable real alternative to enclosures.
The shaded pathways and exhibits has to be included as a highlight of this zoo, as the zoo used both mature trees and canopy structures to provide shade to guests and animals. So many zoo's seem to provide little shade/canopy for animals that in the wild under a dense canopy.
Taipei Zoo stands as a beacon of hope in Asia Through its unwavering dedication to innovation, collaboration, and education, it continues to inspire generations of visitors to cultivate a deeper reverence for the natural world.
), it really is a spectacular zoo that excels in a few aspect. Is it better than Singapore? If we are judging the whole Mandai complex as one, probably not, but Taipei is still very much an excellent zoo that probably is the best zoo in Asia bar Mandai. 
