Zoo Rating: Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institute of Oceanography

Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institute of Oceanography

La Jolla, California, USA

 

 

About the Zoo

 

Birch Aquarium, as explained above, is owned and operated by the Scripps Institute of Oceanography, one of the prestige colleges for marine science in the US. The aquarium, while standing as an attraction for the public, it also allows for up-close research on many species of Pacific species and gives extreme experience in the field of animal management.

 

 

1. Species

The Aquarium’s limiting factor in species is its size. As seen by the map above, all species kept are from the Pacific, from a wide variety of environments. While most are typical reef, kelp forest, and other creatures, the high amount of endemic animals makes this collection resemble a miniature Monterey Bay. In addition, very special species including Chambered Nautilus, several species of seahorses and kin, and a coral breeding center.

Score: 7

2. Animal Welfare

Literally in the care of experts, it is obvious that the animals at Birch Aquarium could not get any better care. All of the facility’s animals are vibrantly coloured and well fed. It is obvious that all the animals are well cared for due to their near constant-breeding of wolf eels, seahorses, and other, tough-to-breed species.

Score: 9

3. Construction

Birch Aquarium’s construction is fairly simple, with one half of the facility being devoted to the Hall of Fishes, a winding path that first starts in the cold north Pacific reefs, then moves on to its kelp forests, down to the subtropical reefs of Western Mexico, and finally, the tropical reefs of the south Pacific. Everything from sardines to wolf eels to golden trevally and chambered nautilus can be seen. The other half is filled with a plethora of educational exhibits, the stars of course being seahorses and their kin. More than a dozen are exhibited, and bred, at the facility. Also in this area is a hall devoted to whales, the giants of the ocean. Perhaps the most important exhibition in this area is one for global warming, featuring everything from a comparison between a bleached coral reef and a healthy one, to simple ways to reduce one’s carbon footprint. Outside exhibitions include ElasmoBeach, for sharks and their relatives, and a touch-tidepool. Despite all of this, the aquarium tour can be completed in forty minutes or even less.

Score: 7

 

4. Accommodations

For its small size, Birch Aquarium has a lot to offer guests. A large giftshop and ample restroom facilities satisfy those needs, while water fountains and a deli satisfy others.

Score: 8

 

5. Education

Literally situated on the grounds of a university, Birch provides students with easy-to-access marine life, for easy studying. Birch Aquarium’s wide variety of exhibitions hold a huge diversity of marine life, meaning everything from a kelp forest to tropical reef. With this, effects of global warming and human intrusion in habitats can be closely monitored and kept track of. Aside from these future scientists, Birch and the Scripps Institute of Oceanography open up the aquarium to K-12 students, allowing them to learn more about the nearby Pacific Ocean. There are even halls devoted to animals that cannot be kept at the aquarium, such as the massive Gray Whale. Overall, Birch, for its size, provides an immense educational opportunity.

Score: 9.5

 

6. Interaction

Birch’s entire existence is bent on interaction between humans and the sea. With such, its exhibitions bring forth a touch pool, several sea-themed playgrounds, and computer screens. Everything from whales to seahorses to global warming are touched on.

Score: 7

Total: 7.9

 

Despite its small stature, Birch Aquarium is superb and clearly well thought out. The Scripps Institute of Oceanography keeps the aquarium in the best possible condition, with the best possible combination of species in each habitat. It’s important to remember that it is small, but being in the San Diego/La Jolla area, there is a lot more to do. Birch Aquarium shouldn’t be missed, and is a true jewel among Pacific Coast aquaria, standing up to giants like Monterey, which it appears to be a dwarf of. A visit to Birch would definitely leave a positive impression on anyone.

 

Zoo Rating: Colchester Zoo

Colchester Zoo

Colchester, United Kingdom

About the zoo

Colchester Zoo is a 60 acres big zoo that houses over 260 species of animals. The zoo opened in 1963 as the Stanway Hall Zoo Park. Later, it became Colchester Zoo, now one of the most well-known zoos in the United Kingdom.

 

 

 

 1. Species

Colchester Zoo houses many rare species, including gelada baboons, smooth-coated otters, pileated gibbons, southern tamandua, red-backed beared sakis, lesser Malayan chevrotain and more. Next to that, there are also the well-known zoo animals. This all together makes Colchester Zoo a nice species list.

Score: 8

2. Animal Welfare

Most of the rare kept animals have been breeding in Colchester Zoo. Besides, all animals have enclosures which are perfectly adapted to their needs, and they're big enough aswell. Not many bad things to say about Colchesters animal welfare.

Score: 8

3. Construction

The whole zoo is themed very nice, bringing you home in the habitat of the animals. Colchester isn't like the regular zoo that has animals in (nice) cages, but the zoo really did its best to make it look beautiful outside the enclosures as well.

Score: 8.5

4. Accommodations

Around almost each corner you will find yourself a place to buy a drink or a snack. There is a big difference in the food you can buy at the stands, so you'll most definitely find something you'll like.

Score: 8.5 

 5. Education

Colchester zoo has been on TV for some weeks, but in the zoo itself you can't find much about that. There are a lot signs around the zoo, and there are some feeding presentations which are educative aswell.

Score: 7.5

6. Interaction

Apart from some walkthrough enclosures, there isn't that much interaction with the animals.

Score: 7

 

 

Total Score: 7.9

Colchester zoo is one zoo you should definitely visit. It has a big variety of animals, has a great atmosphere and makes a great daytrip.

Gerben, 24/05/2014.

 

Zoo Rating: Dierenpark Emmen

Dierenpark Emmen

Emmen, The Netherlands

 

 

About the zoo

Dierenpark Emmen, formerly known as Noorderdierenpark Emmen, is a Dutch zoo that opened it’s doors in  1935. In 2011, it’s voted as best zoo in the BeNeLux (Belgium, The Netherlands and Luxembourg). The zoo will move from the centre of the city to the edge. The new zoo will open in 2015. It will be called WILDLANDS, Adventure Zoo Emmen.

1. Species

Dierenpark Emmen houses about 160 species of animals. Most of these are quite common in zoos, and there aren’t any special species at all why you should definitly visit the zoo. They attract visitors with their Asian Elephants group, and the zoos has the biggest Humboldt Penguin group in the world. In the past the zoo housed Kodiak bears, which were quite special in The Netherlands. In 2011, the last bear died and Spectacled bears joined the zoo instead.

Score: 6.5

2. Animal welfare

There are hardly any negative sounds about the animal welfare in Dierenpark Emmen. This is with the exception of the South American Sea Lions group, which all got killed by a virus in 2006, and the death of Elephant Annabel which fell into the ditch of the exhibit in 2009. The enclosures in the zoo are spacious and not too crowed by animals.

Score: 7.5

3. Construction

For the visitors, Dierenpark Emmen is a feast for the eyes. There are hardly any (disturbing) fences in view and the animals are very well visable. Next to that, there are some walkthrough enclosures and a glass house that contains various species.

Score: 8

4. Accommodations

Dierenpark Emmen has got 2 big restaurants and two smaller facilities. The entrance is in a building called the Biochron, which is also used  as museum, aquarium and butterly house. Next to the entrance is a zooshop. The new part of Dierenpark Emmen, which was opened before with 3 enclosures and a building, called Yukatan, is now unavaiable to public due to operations, but will open again with the new zoo in 2015. Yukaten is a big indoor playground which also houses some reptiles and a bat cave. There are some more indoor facilities, e.a. an African and an Asian House, as well as the big glass house called the AmeriCasa.

Score: 7.5

5. Education

With the Biochron and a smaller water plant in the newer part (also closed) Dierenpark Emmen definitly does something with education. Next to that, each animal has got it’s own ‘passport’ next to the enclosures with information.

Score: 7

6. Interaction

With the exception of some feeding presentations there isn’t much about interaction in Dierenpark Emmen. There are some events now and then, but in most cases they don’t have anything to zoo with the animals.

Score: 6

 

7. Total Score: 7.1

Dierenpark Emmen isn’t very special compared to other Dutch zoos, but you’ll definitly enjoy yourself there for a day. If you just like to see animals in a nice and spacious environment, Dierenpark Emmen definitely fits you. If you’re more searching for special species, it might not be the best zoo around. But, then still, Dierenpark Emmen is worth visiting once.

Gerben, 03/05/2014.

Zoo Rating: Antwerp Zoo

Antwerp Zoo

Antwerp, Belgium

 

 

About the zoo

Antwerp Zoo (Dutch: ZOO Antwerpen) is a zoo in the centre of Antwerp, Belgium, located right next to the Antwerpen-Centraal railway station. It is the oldest animal park in the country, and one of the oldest in the world, established on 21 July 1843. It houses a wide variety of species from all over the world.

1. Species

Antwerp Zoo houses about 350 species of animals. Alot of these are quite rare in zoos. Slender lorises, a Black-and-rufous elephant shrew, Eastern lowland gorillas and Dusky pademelons are prime examples of those of those. Besides those, Antwerp also has a lot of the regular zoo animals like lions, tigers, giraffes, hippos and elephants.

Score: 9,5

2. Animal welfare

The animals at the Antwerp Zoo are well cared for, they get top-notch care and the Zoo has good breeding results with several endangered species such as okapis and congo peafowl. However, some of the enclosures are quite small which doesn’t allow the animals to get a lot of exersize.

Score: 7

3. Construction

The enclosures at the zoo of Antwerp are often quite old and thus rather small. There are still quite a lot of iron bars and some of the primates don’t have access to outdoor enclosures. They will try to improve a lot of these enclosures in the future though, and a lot are improved already.

Score: 7

4. Accommodations

There are several restaurants spread over the park, as well as playgrounds for the children. There are also plenty of benches to sit on and enough toilet facilities.

Score: 8

5. Education

There are signs at every enclosure and from experience I can tell, visitors can ask the keepers anything they want. With special species like the okapis (for which Antwerp coordinates the SSP) they offer extra signs with more info than just the general information about the species.

Score: 8

6. Interaction

There is a bit of interaction between the visitors and the animals at Zoo Antwerp, beside the feeding presentations and several events in holidays, there are a couple of walkthrough enclosures where visitors can get quite close to the animals.

Score: 7

7. Total Score: 7.8

Zoo Antwerp is definately a must see zoo. It has a ton of rare species and the atmosphere is splendid (thanks to all the old buildings and all the care for the flowers). The only downside are the small old enclosures on site, however these are being improved.

Jasper, 05/05/2014.

Zoo Rating: Friguia Park

Friguia Park

Hammamet, Tunesia

 

 

About the zoo

Friguia Park in Hammamet is the most well-known zoo in Tunesia. With over 400 animals, divided among about 60 species are housed in the 36 acres big zoo.  Most of the zoos residents are African, but there are some other species as well. Next to the real zoo is a Dolphinarium, which you have to pay for seperately.

1. Species

The zoo doesn’t have much species why it’s definitly worth visiting, especially for natives. The zoo does have some big cats, elephants and also dolphins, however these aren’t that uncommon and aren’t very active either in the African warmth.

Score: 6

2. Animal Welfare

Although the animals are kept in enclosures that are big enough, not all of them have shelters to get out of the sun. Especially for the non native animals, this isn’t a good thing.

Score: 6

3. Construction

The entrance area and the first couple of enclosures you see upon entering the zoo are nice, even better than you might expect for a simple African zoos. However after passing a couple of enclosures, you will be seeing animals in simple squarish enclosures with only single tree. Aside from that, some animals enclosures are far away from the pathways, so you often can’t see them properly.

Score: 5

4. Accommodations

The zoo isn’t that big, so there aren’t that much accomodations needed. They do meet the requirements, but aren’t that special. They do have a Sea Lion show in the Zoo, which is quite cool.

Score: 6

5. Education

Simple, there isn’t a whole lot with the exception of some signs next to the enclosures.

Score: 4.5

6. Interaction

There is a camel ride, and next to that you can pet ostriches. The zookeepers doesn’t speak english very well, so that might be a problem if you have any question.

Score: 7

7. Total Score: 5.8

Friguia Park isn’t that special at all, but if you’d like to see a typical African zoo, it’s a good park to visit. It might be nice to have seen an African zoo once, and although it isn’t that bad, but you shouldn’t expect to much. This way, it can only be better then expected.

Gerben, 04/05/2014

Zoo Rating: Zooparc Overloon

Zooparc Overloon

Overloon, The Netherlands

 

 

About the zoo

Zooparc Overloon is the biggest of the three Zodiac Zoos in the Netherlands. With about 50 species, it isn’t a very big zoo in species, but with 21 acres it does have a lot space. It opened in 2000 and is one of the newest zoos in the Netherlands.

1. Species

Zooparc Overloon isn’t a typical zoo that houses your typical zoo animals, such as elephants and giraffes. They focus mainly on smaller species, but they do have some special ones. For example the Crab-eating Racoons, which are in the Netherlands only on-show in Overloon and its sister-park Dierenpark de Wissel. Next to that, they also house Pygmy hippos, Bamboo Lemurs, Crowned Lemurs and Goitered gazelles.

Score: 7.5

2.  Animal welfare

The animal care at Overloon is top-notch, with very few deaths and a lot of births of special species (i.e. Crab-eating Racoons and Pygmy hippos). The animals have a lot of space, so not much to worry about.

Score: 8.5

3. Construction

Overloon is quite woody and that gives an amazing atmosphere to the zoo. Like the other Zodiac zoos, it’s very different from other Dutch zoos. Everything looks neat, partly because it’s quite a new zoo. The next 4 years they plan to expand even more.

Score: 7.5

4. Accommodations

Because the zoo isn’t that big, they only have one restaurant and only one toilet facility (at said restaurant). The zoo is divided into two ‘trails’, which both end at the restaurant. They do have a picnic field and a playground for kids.

Score: 6.5

5. Education

Each day there are 6 feeding presentations where the zookeepers will tell you a lot about thespecies. Of course there are also the well known signs. Out of own experience I found out that the zookeepers will tell a lot from themselves too, when meeting them without having a presentation. At some enclosures, they have more, bigger signs and a special cart. For example at the cheetahs, where a special ‘Cheetah Cart’ is placed with an employee who answers all questions.

Score: 7.5

6. Interaction

Having three walkthrough enclosures at the zoo, the zoo definately have some interaction. They are also working on a flight show.

Score: 7

Total score: 7.4

If you’re a bit tired of the regular zoo animals, Zoo Parc Overloon is perfect for you. Even if not, it’s still a beautiful zoo and although it’s not that big, you’ll definitely enjoy yourself there for a day.

Gerben, 04/05/2014

Zoo Rating: Weltvogelpark Walsrode

Weltvogelpark Walsrode

Walsrode, Germany

 

About the zoo

Weltvogelpark Walsrode is a must see zoo for any bird-lover. Walsrode is one the biggest birdparks in the world with about  675 different species and more then 4000 birds. The zoo is 24 hectares big, and is one of the ten species-richest zoos in the whole world.

1. Species

While Walsrode only focusses on birds, the park does have some extremely special species, which are only visible at Walsrode. For example, the Blue Coua, Long-tailed Ground Roller and Sickle-billed Vanga. Next to that, they also have Shoebills, some types of Birds-of-paradise, Kagus and a large group of the critically endangered Siberian Crane.

Score: 9,5

2. Animal welfare

The fact that Walsrode is the only park that’s able to keep some special species, in which others have failed, only shows that the park’s care for its birds is of high quality. Next to that, they also get a lot of offspring each year, proving that the birds feel fine at the park.

Score: 9

3. Construction

With some huge walkthrough aviaries, Walsrode gives the opportunity to get close to the birds. With only a few typical bird cages, the enclosures aren’t boring at all. There a lot of flowers spread throuh the whole zoo, which really provice a great atmosphere.

Score: 8

4. Accommodations

Having four restaurants spread through the park, and some snack carts too, there is nothing to complain about regarding the accomodations in the Weltvogelpark Walsrode. With 320 benches (according to the zoo) there is always a place to sit down and rest.

Score: 8.5

5. Education

Every bird species in the park has it’s own sign, but that’s where it stops at Walsrode. The education isn’t bad, but it’s nothing special either. At the behind the scenes tour (€55) you’ll probably get more information, but said tour is quite  expensive.

Score: 6.5

6. Interaction

Walsrode Zoo has 2 shows (one indoor and one outdoor) and 5 feeding presentations each day. Add the several walkthrough aviaries to that, and you can conclude that there is enough interaction at the Weltvogelpark Walsrode.

Score: 8

7. Total Score: 8.3

For the bird-lover, Weltvogelpark Walsrode is definitly a must see. Even when you’re not that into birds, the zoo is still a great daytrip. If you’re into special species, the zoo should definately have a spot on your to-go list. You’ll easily enjoy yourself there for a day.

Gerben, 05/05/2014

Zoo Rating: Sealand Aquarium de Noirmoutier

Sealand Aquarium de Noirmoutier

Noirmoutier en l’Ile, France

 

About the zoo

Sealand Aquarium de Noirmoutier is an small aquarium at the coast of France. The 500,000 liter containg aquarium houses 1000 animals, and about 200 species. With just 200 meter of walkway it isn’t all too big.

1.  Species

The aquarium doesn’t have much special species. The most notable species must be the Californian sea lions, which are also appearing in a show. The aquarium does have a rich variety of fish and other marine creatures though, such as turtles and octopusses.

Score: 6.5

2. Animal welfare

Not much to say about. The enclosures are big enough, but other than that there isn’t much to say about the aquarium.

Score: 7

3. Construction

You’re basicly walking through a long pathway that’s got aquariums at the left and right site, with the exception of the Sealion enclosure. Nothing special.

Score: 6

4. Accommodations

There is a small place to get some stuff at the entrance of the aquarium, but other than that there isn’t any. Not needed either, within 1,5 hours you’ve seen the whole aquarium and with only 200 metres of pathway it’s unnecessary to have more facilities.

Score: 6.5

5. Education

With the exception of the general signs in front of each aquarium, there isn’t any education at the aquarium. Even at the Sealion show, where the most talking is about the show itself.

Score: 4.5

6. Interaction

You simply can’t expect much when thinking about interaction with fish. Though, at the show there are possibilities. Sadly, the aquarium doesn’t really involve visitors into the show.

Score: 4.5

Total Score: 5.8

Sealand Aquarium de Noirmoutier isn’t a place that you’ll visit very often. If not a real fish lover, you possibly will only be there once. It’s not bad, and you’ll enjoy yourself for the time you’re there, but after one hour you’ve seen the most and you’ll possibly only remember the sealion show.

Gerben, 05/05/2014

Zoo Rating: Dolfinarium Harderwijk

Dolfinarium Harderwijk

Harderwijk, The Netherlands

 

About the zoo

The Dolphinarium in Harderwijk is the biggest marine mammal park in Europe. They’ve got about 20 species of animals. They attract a lot of visitors with their 11 shows/presentations.

1. Species

A couple of the species that Dolfinarium houses aren’t that special in captivity. The Dolfinarium is the only park in The Netherlands that has (bottlenose) dolphins, however those aren’t that special on a global level. Their Stellar’s sealions, harbour porpoises and walruses are a bit more special though.

Score: 7

2. Animal welfare

The care for the animals at Harderwijk is top notch. They’ have very close bonds with the Dutch rehabilitation center “SOS Dolfijn”, which is on the same terrain. Sometimes,  dolphins or porpoises which can’t go back to the open sea, are permanently housed at the Dolfinarium. Other than that, the tanks are big and meet al requirements.

Score: 8

3. Construction

All enclosures are very open and it’s impossible not to find the animals. The dolphins and walrusses even got an underwater viewing area. The park gives a sort of woody atmosphere.

Score: 7.5

4. Accommodations

Having 10 restaurants/carts and 4 souvenir shops, you can’t say a bad thing about the accomodations in Harderwijk. They’ve also got 10 different playgrounds. There are 3 stadiums in the park.

Score: 9

5. Education

With a big exposition near the SOS Dolfijn building, and various other signs at the park, you really get to learn something at the park.

Score: 8

6. Interaction

Dolfinarium Harderwijk has a shark and rays tank, where you can pet the rays. The shows are without interaction.

Score: 7

Total Score: 7.8

Dolfinarium Harderwijk is definitly worth visiting for a day, but that’s it. The park doesn’t house that much species, so you’ll have time to visit all the shows. When you’ve seen those, well, then there isn’t a reason to come back very soon. Besides that, the entrance fee is rather high (it’s probably the most expensive zoo in the Netherlands). However, if you do go, you’ll almost definately have a nice day.

Gerben, 05/05/2014

Zoo Rating: Zoo Duisburg

Zoo Duisburg

Duisburg, Germany

 

 

About the zoo

The Duisburg Zoo, founded on May 12, 1934, is one of the largest zoological gardens in Germany. It is especially well known for its dolphinarium and, since 1994, for breeding koalas. It houses a whole variety of species, including wombats and the only Amazon river dolphin outside of South America.

1. Species

Duisburg houses a whole variety of species ranging from common zoo animals such as giraffes and lions to lesser seen animals such as giant otters and echidnas. The highlight animal of Duisburg Zoo, in my opinion, is Butu. Butu is the only Amazon River Dolphin kept outside South America.

Score: 9

2. Animal welfare

The enclosures at Duisburg are not the biggest and to be quite honest I have seen quite some rats and mice on my visit, however with the zoo being in area of a huge industrial city, I can’t really blame that on them. All the animals seemed healthy.

Score: 7.5

3. Construction

Duisburg uses a lot of dry moats and glass walls, so the animals are often visible without bars. The only exception is the primate house, which is simply outdated. There is also a whole lot of foliage at the zoo, which gives it a lush and natural feeling.

Score: 8,5

4. Accommodations

At the back of the zoo there is a decent sized children’s zoo and playground where the children can play while there parents have a drink. There are also several other facilities where you can get a snack or something to drink.
There are also several restrooms across the parks and there are enough benches for the visitors to rest on.

Score: 7.5

5. Education

Each animal has a nice sign explaining what animal lives in the enclosure. The zoo also hosts a dolphin show, which to my surprise gave a huge amount of information about dolphins in the wild.
Besides that I have noticed that the zookeepers are very friendly and helpful and so may answer all your questions.

Score: 8

6. Interaction

There is a bird walkthrough and a lemur walkthrough. The zoo also involves it’s visitors in the dolphin show.

Score: 7

7. Total Score: 7.9

Zoo Duisburg definitely is a nice day out for both zoo fanatics and for the average family, because it houses both rare species and visitor favourites such as dolphins and giraffes. Duisburg Zoo is a really nice and green place to be in a rather urban area. If you are near it, I most certainly recommend you to pay it a visit.

Jasper, 05/05/2014.

Zoo Rating: Los Angeles Zoo

Los Angeles Zoo

Los Angeles, California, USA.

 

 

About the zoo

LA Zoo is an 54 hectare big zoo in the city of Los Angeles. The zoo houses about 1200 animals, but is also known for its 7400 plants. Of the more than 250 animal species the zoo houses, 29 are endangered.

1. Species

LA Zoo houses a lot of special species, for example fossas, babirussas, gerenuks, coquerel’s sifakas and mountain Tapirs. Next to that, they have the ‘general’ zoo animals, like giraffes and zebras, and with monkeys, apes and otters they do have attracting and playful animals.

Score: 9.5

2. Animal welfare

In the late 1990′s and early 2000′s there’s been about 35 escapes in the zoo. After that, things were going better and right now, there aren’t many bad things to say about the animal health in LA Zoo. Most enclosures got renovated, and each species does have enough room.

Score: 7.5

3. Construction

The zoo has some big projects; Chimpanzees of Mahale Mountains, Campo Gorilla Reserve, Elephants of Asia, Red Ape Rain Forest and the LAIR. Most enclosures are made in a circle, what makes them look a bit the same. Other than that, LA Zoo looks great.

Score: 8

4. Accommodations

Having 7 restaurants, several toilets and snack/drink machines spread around the zoo, you’ll never have to walk far if you need something. There also are enough placegrounds and there are some picnic areas.

Score: 8

5. Education

Having a Children’s Class, a Zoocamp and several programs, education definitly has a high priority for the zoo. Of course also the well known signs are in front of the exhibits, for the general information.

Score: 8.5

6. Interaction

With a petting zoo, a walkthrough aviary and a birdshow, the zoo has some interaction, but that’s basically it. Not bad, not outstanding either.

Score: 7

Total Score: 8.1

LA Zoo definitly has some interesting species which makes it worth a visit. If you’re not that into special species, the zoo still makes a nice daytrip.

Gerben, 07/05/14

Zoo Rating: Bournemouth Oceanium

Bournemouth Oceanarium

Bournemouth, United Kingdom

 

About the Zoo

The Bournemouth Oceanarium is an aquarium located right next to the pier of Bournemouth, England. The Oceanarium contains over 500,000 liters of water housing over 300 species of animals. Although having a ground and a first floor, it isn’t too big.

1. Species

Since it’s completely an indoors, the Oceanarium doesn’t contain any large species; the largest being their sharks, moray eels and sea turtles. They have some interesting species of certain fish and a wide variety of them, but if you’re not really into fish they probably won’t really interest you. Although to make it some more interesting visitors like this they also house otters and some reptiles.

 Score: 7

2. Animal Welfare

The tanks are of a fine size, not being too large but big enough for the fish it houses. Some artificial coral patches are struggling with brown aquarium algae, but except for displaying the coral colors a bit dull this doesn’t have much influence on the health of the animals.

 Score: 7

3. Construction

The route through the aquarium first leads you upstairs, to the river habitats. With the rivers you will go down to the shore. Then you will go through the reefs leading you to the Abyss, which will bring you to the coast again. It’s not a very long journey but it really has been thought through.

 Score: 7.5

4. Accommodations

Being an indoor aquarium there isn’t much need for much facilities. The entrance contains an medium-sized restaurant and a gift shop; just enough for your visit.

 Score: 6.5

5. Education

At the smaller tanks you will only find signs telling you about the fish species living in it. But having 9 feeding/talk presentations per day you will sure get some information. An employee will tell you everything about their otters, sharks, piranhas, octopus and much more. This of course depends on which feeding presentation you visit. But since they are all at different times you won’t have to miss any of them.

 Score: 8

6. Interaction

You wouldn’t expect much interaction in an aquarium but in this one there certainly is. You can face your fears and hold one of their Royal Pythons or pet one of their other reptiles. If you want something else you can jump into their virtual Dive Cage which gives you a 270-degree continuous view of the ocean. The large touch screens bring you up close with various animals such as a Great White Shark or a Blue Whale. While observing them you can learn anything about their feeding habits and much more. If this all seems too thrilling for you, you can visit their Puffer fish tank and interact with them since these are very curious fish, unlike any other fish you saw before.

 Score:8

Total Score: 7.3

The Bournemouth Aquarium is a place you should really consider visiting when you are in that area. If you’re not a real fish lover you’ll probably only visit once, but if you are you may want to come back when you’re near Bournemouth again. Since it is only an aquarium it will not take much time to visit but you will sure enjoy yourself when you are inside; especially when you visit a presentation.

Kevin, 07/05/14

Zoo Rating: Zoo Krefeld

Zoo Krefeld

Krefeld, Germany

 

About the zoo

Zoo Krefeld opened its doors in 1938. At the moment, the zoo houses about 1300 animals and approximately 225 species. The zoo is about 13 hectare big.

1. Species

Krefeld Zoo definitly houses some special species, such as tree kangaroos, black rhinos, jaguars and snow leopards. They also have a some species of great apes, including chimpanzees, gorillas and orangutans. Having a big variety of other species, there is enough to see at Krefeld Zoo.

Score: 8.5

2. Animal Welfare

The fact that Krefeld breeds with (critical) endangered species such as the jaguar and black rhino only shows that the zoo has a quality animal care. With some small exceptions, i.e. the siamangs, do all animals have enough space.

Score: 8

3. Construction

Although Krefeld Zoo isn’t the most flamboyant zoo you’ll ever see, it doesn’t look bad at all. With a lot of foliage at the zoo, it gives a natural and lush feeling.

Score: 7.5

4. Accommodations

Having 4 accommodations it isn’t bad at all for a park with the size of Krefeld, though the pathways are long so you might have to walk a bit.

Score: 7

5. Education

There isn’t much to do in terms of education in Zoo Krefeld, with the famous exception of the signs.

Score: 6

6. Interaction

With only the walkthrough South-American house, there isn’t much interaction at Zoo Krefeld.

Score: 6

Total Score: 7.2

Zoo Krefeld is definitly worth a trip, and with special, endangered and playful animals there is a lot to see. Not one of the best zoos you’ll ever go to, but also not one of the worst at all. You’ll surely enjoy yourself at Zoo Krefeld.

Gerben, 07/05/14

Zoo Rating: Toronto Zoo

Toronto Zoo

 Toronto, Canada

 

About the Zoo

Toronto Zoo first opened in 1974 as the Metropolitan Toronto Zoo. Today the park encompasses 287 hectares; being the largest of its kind in Canada and also one of the largest in the world. Their seven zoogeographic regions house over 5,000 animals representing over 460 species.

1. Species

Toronto Zoo houses quite some interesting species such as snow leopards, tree kangaroos, clouded leopards, wombats, echidnas, spotted-necked otters and giant pandas. The zoo is also home to public-favorites such as giraffes, white rhinos, polar bears, tigers and lions. And of course there is way more that is worth taking a look at.

 Score: 9

2. Animal Welfare

With the exception of their white lions, the zoo does a pretty good job at conservation efforts. They have had quite some births of various endangered species including snow leopards, golden lion tamarins, Sumatran and Siberian tigers. The animals have plenty of space in their large exhibits.

 Score: 8.5

3. Construction

The zoo has plenty of long pathways through the park, surrounded by large pine trees and other plants. When there aren’t much exhibits along the long pathway you can still enjoy the beautiful native nature.

 Score: 8,5

4. Accommodations

Toronto Zoo has plenty of restaurants and small stands across the park, although sometimes you may have to walk for a bit because the pathways are pretty long especially when you get further into the park.

 Score: 7

5. Education

Although some areas have more education than other there are most of the time only signs telling you about the animals. But especially for kids the zoo organizes Zoo Camps, which is really educational for them.

 Score: 7

6. Interaction

There isn’t much interaction in the zoo due to the lack of walkthrough exhibits. You can walk through some of them but these are usually small.

 Score: 6

Total Score: 7,7

The Toronto Zoo is one of the biggest zoos in the world and definitely worth visiting. When you do, and you want to see the whole park, you might want to go two days because you probably won’t see the park in one day. The zoo makes a great day out for the family but also when you’re more into special and interesting species.

Kevin, 07/05/14

Zoo Rating: Sea World Orlando

Sea World Orlando

 Orlando, Florida, USA

 

About the zoo

SeaWorld Orlando is one of the three SeaWorld parks. It houses about 530 species and 3000 animals. The park is a zoo and an attraction park combined, something that isn’t uncommon for American parks.

1. Species

The biggest and most popular animals at SeaWorld Orlando are definitly the killer whales. They have more interesting species though. Adding inter alia walrusses, short-finned atlantic pilot whales and belugas to that list and you definitly got an epic species list.

Score: 8.5

2. Animal Welfare

Although not everyone agrees with SeaWorld keeping orcas, the animal welfare is top-notch at Orlando. They have a big care center for wounded animals, and have proven to take care of their animals very well.

Score: 8.5

3. Construction

Outstanding. Just outstanding. SeaWorld Orlando gives you the opportunity to get to their animals real close, by having several underwater viewing areas and other viewing points. Next to that, the whole parks gives you a great subtropical feeling. The enclosure all are big enough for the animals, however you can put some remarks on the orca enclosure.

Score: 8

Accomodations

Having accomodations almost around each corner, you never need to have a long walk before reaching something. The accomodations themselves are big, have enough variation and fit in the park’s atmosphere.

Score: 9

5. Education

Apart from the signs, SeaWorld Orland has it’s own Education Program Center. There are some bigger signs with more information spread through the park aswell.

Score: 7.5

6. Interaction

All 6 shows in SeaWorld Orlando contain interaction with the public. Apart from that, there isn’t much interaction with the animals.

Score: 7.5

Total Score: 8.2

SeaWorld Orlando is a daytrip that fits everyone. If you’re not that much into animals you can visit the attractions and shows, vice versa, or do both. SeaWorld Orlando really leaves and indelible impression, and however it’s quite pricey, it’s worth your money.

Gerben, 08/05/14

Zoo Rating: Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey, California, USA

 

About the Zoo

Slightly ironic, the Monterey Bay Aquarium started off as a sardine cannery on the famous “Cannery Row” of Monterey, California. However the 20^th Century saw the collapse of the sardine fishing industry, and in 1973 Monterey’s precursor, the Hovden Cannery, closed down. Eleven years later brought the opening of the aquarium, one of the most charismatic and well known facilities on the Pacific coast of America.

 

1. Species

As it was once a cannery, Monterey Bay Aquarium’s floor space is large, with two separated buildings, connected by a skywalk. The aquarium’s 322,000 square foot (29,914.77888 square metres) grounds are home to mostly native species to the west Pacific, though there are some exotics in the mix, as well. Animal highlights include Southern Sea Otters, Pacific Bluefin Tuna, Mola Mola and many other species of pelagic fish rarely kept in captivity. Monterey also holds precedence of being the only aquarium in the world to have ever kept a Great White Shark for an extended period of time, which was done a total of six times.

Score: 8

2. Animal Welfare

Monterey Bay Aquarium is home to a variety of animals with special needs, from rescued Green Turtles and Southern Sea Otters to Giant Pacific Octopus and Scalloped Hammerheads. With a large variety, comes a wide variety of special needs. Any animal big or small is kept in a specialized habitat, with every need satisfied. Around 2,025 gallons of water are pumped into the aquarium every minute, by day this is filtered for easy public viewing, but by night, it is left unfiltered to sustain filter-feeding animals (especially the aquarium’s sardines and anchovies) and to possibly introduce new animals into the habitats. In this way, the aquarium acts as a man-made extension of the bay. Keepers care about all the animals under their care, and it is clear that they’re there for all of the right reasons.

Score: 8

3. Construction

The aquarium’s entrance is effective taking guests in and letting them into the facility. Two main routes can be taken; through “Ocean’s Edge” or “Outer Bay” – the latter of which is in the aquarium’s second building. The first path takes you in around rocky shores, with sharks, shorebirds, penguins, and more. The highlight of this side is the three story, 328,000 gallon Kelp Forest, which stands as the first and biggest exhibit of its kind. If the other path is taken, then many open ocean species will be encountered. The million-gallon Open Sea tank is where the aquarium’s most famous denizens, its Great Whites, lived alongside Bluefin Tuna and more. Despite having so much, the aquarium is not cramped in any way, and built specifically to handle large crowds of people.

Score: 8

 

4. Accommodations

Near its entrance is where the aquarium’s gift shop can be found, providing all sorts of under-the-sea themed gift specialties. Across the way lies a full-service restaurant which overlooks the bay, providing good views of sea lions, otters, and the occasional gray whale. On the aquarium’s outside decks are telescopes, so that guests can look out onto the bay for wildlife. Restrooms are found throughout the building, so guests are never too far from one. In the “Splash Zone” exhibition, there is a large indoor playground for children and throughout the aquarium are many “fish feedings” where divers interact with a watching crowd as they feed the animals.

Score: 8

5. Education

Monterey’s entire mission is to educate guests on the idea of oceanic conservation, whether that be by cleaning up litter on the beach, or making sure to avoid eating unsustainable fish species. Throughout the aquarium are loyal volunteers and keepers ready to answer any question that guests may have, and each exhibition, every last tank, is carefully and clearly labeled, with factoids on each species. Simply no other aquarium is as devoted to education and conservation not only in its local area, but throughout the planet.

Score: 9.5

6. Interaction

The “Ocean’s Edge” side of the aquarium sports several touch pools, allowing interaction with everything from California Bat Rays to mussels and starfish. Each one of course is manned by several volunteers and keepers, to answer any questions or point out especially important animals. During the “fish feeding” shows, divers interact with an eager audience, asking questions and handing out prizes later on.

Score: 7.5

 

Total Score: 8.2

Monterey is like no other aquarium facility on the planet, saving species from extinction through teaching and example. The Monterey Bay Aquarium Foundation does work throughout the world, working with many species to ensure their continued existence in our ocean, from the tiniest planktonic creature to the massive whales that migrate through Monterey Bay every year. It in a way is a magical location, where guests can experience things that they will never experience. Probably the only thing holding Monterey Bay Aquarium back is its location; it doesn’t allow for the building and exhibition of dolphins, sea lions, and other, larger marine mammals. In the end, this is a small detail, and Monterey is an aquarium that you’ll want to visit over and over and over again.

Andrew, 09/05/2014