Located in the Mirpur section of the capital city of Bangladesh, the Bangladesh National Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals from 165 species and is a popular place to spend the day, both for Bangladeshis and international visitors. Established in 1974, the Bangladesh National Zoo has been developed and improved over the years, and is widely considered to be one of the best zoos in Bangladesh, receiving hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
Visitors to the Bangladesh National Zoo will appreciate the way the animal enclosures are designed to make each occupant feel at home by mimicking the animal’s natural environment as closely as possible. Of course, the animals are safely behind bars, but the overall appearance of the zoo, with its tree-lined pathways and two large tranquil lakes that host migratory water-fowl each winter, gives one the impression of being out in the country rather than within the boundaries of one of the busiest cities in Bangladesh.
Mammals at the zoo include elephant, cheetah, rhinoceros, zebra, waterbuck, otter, hyena, deer, giraffes, impala, black bear, tapir, hippo, lion and many different species of monkeys, as well as chimpanzees and baboons. The majestic Royal Bengal Tigers are a highlight of the Bangladesh National Zoo– which is fitting, seeing as it is the national animal of Bangladesh. Many of the animals, including the zebras, giraffes, impalas, hippos, waterbuck and rhinoceros were brought to Bangladesh from South Africa, and have adapted well to their new surroundings. The hippo enclosure contains a sizable lake covered in aquatic greenery that the hippos seem to thoroughly enjoy.
The aviaries at the Bangladesh National Zoo house more than 1,500 birds from 90 species, and visitors can expect to see peacocks, rhea, African grey parrots, cassowary, owls, ostrich, emus, teals, finches, babblers, owls, vultures, eagles and too many others to mention. Visitors are always fascinated by the crocodiles and snakes at Bangladesh National Zoo, while the museum provides many informative displays relating to the animals as well as the history of the zoo.
A particularly popular activity at Bangladesh National Zoo is going for an elephant-back ride, or for those who have a fear of heights, horse-back rides are also available. A visit to Bangladesh National Zoo is not only entertaining, but educational too, as visitors get to know more about animals found in Bangladesh, as well as animals from other parts of the world.