Pretoria Zoo celebrates 125 years of conservation and education

The National Zoological Garden (NZG) in Pretoria is marking a milestone as it celebrates its 125th anniversary this month.

Recognised as South Africa’s only zoo with national status, the NZG has spent over a century dedicated to wildlife research, public engagement, and conservation efforts.

Since its inception in 1899, the NZG has evolved from a museum display to a leading institution for biodiversity and conservation in the country.

Nontsikelelo Mpulo, director of marketing communication and commercialisation, said the zoo has a wide range of animals, including wild boars, African bush pigs, American alligators, green anacondas, Madagascan giant geckos, and blue cranes.

To commemorate this momentous occasion, the NZG is offering exclusive anniversary specials from October 17 to 31.

Every weekend, the first 125 visitors will be admitted for free and the rest will get a generous 50% discount.

This initiative encourages everyone to explore the zoo at a reduced cost, making it accessible to families and wildlife enthusiasts.

Mpulo said visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of engaging daily activities designed to inform, educate, and entertain.

“These include school lessons for young learners, animal talks and unique zoo adventure sessions that allow visitors to witness lion feedings, giraffe interactions, gorilla enrichment and alligator feedings.

“Such experiences not only provide a closer look at the fascinating animals that inhabit the NZG but also emphasise the importance of conservation and the care given to these creatures,” said Mpulo.

In preparation for its celebration, the NZG has made strides in enhancing its facilities.

Over the past two years, extensive renovations have been undertaken across the zoo.

With 116 animal enclosures already revamped and 15 more nearing completion, the NZG has prioritised the welfare of its animals and the experience for its visitors.

Animals were temporarily relocated during construction, but many have returned to their newly upgraded homes, providing a fresh and enriched environment for both residents and guests.

The importance of the NZG extends beyond its role as a tourist attraction; it is a beacon of conservation and public education.

“The National Zoological Garden has played a pivotal role in both conservation and public education.

Our work goes beyond being a tourist attraction; we are committed to preserving endangered species, advancing wildlife research, and fostering a deeper understanding of biodiversity.”

She said the NZG is home to more than 4 200 animals, ranging from rainforest tarantulas to majestic lions and tigers.

The dedicated staff of biologists, curators, and keepers ensure that each animal is housed in an environment appropriate for its species.

“The zoo has developed successful breeding programmes for vulnerable and endangered wildlife endemic to Southern Africa, including the Sungazer Lizard and Cape Vultures.

“Most recently, the introduction of Sylvester, a male buff-cheeked gibbon, to a female gibbon as part of an international breeding collaboration resulted in a successful offspring in May this year.”

As the zoo reflects on its 125-year journey, the commitment to wildlife management and conservation remains at the forefront.

“As we celebrate 125 years of wildlife management, we invite everyone to join the celebrations, learn more about the zoo’s vital role in South Africa’s conservation landscape, and support our mission to protect and preserve wildlife for future generations.”

Founded as the Pretoria Museum and Zoological Gardens by Dr JWB Gunning, the NZG has undergone substantial transformation over the decades.

Originally intended to showcase animals to museum visitors, the growing interest in live animal exhibits led to its development into a fully-fledged zoo.

Significant expansion occurred from 1916 to 1962, with notable construction such as the iconic lion and tiger enclosures and the establishment of the Aquarium and Reptile Park in 1974.

Mpulo said in 2018, the zoo transferred to Sanbi (South African National Biodiversity Institute), marking a new chapter in its history.

“Today, the NZG attracts about 300 000 visitors annually and is celebrated for its contributions to conservation and education, having received the PAAZA Conservation Award two years in a row.
PAAZA is a non-profit organisation and stands for the Pan-African Association of Zoos and Aquaria.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the wonders of the zoo, learn about the vital work being done, and support the mission to preserve South Africa’s rich biodiversity for generations to come.

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