History
Historical narrative
The narrative of Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp)’s journey from a railway-side aviary to a prominent European zoo, showcases resilience, architectural innovation, and a commitment to conservation that have sustained its legacy for over a century and a half.
Humble Beginnings and Rapid Growth
Rotterdam Zoo, also known as Diergaarde Blijdorp, is one of the oldest and most renowned zoological gardens in the Netherlands, with a rich history that traces back over 150 years. The zoo’s roots trace back to a modest railway garden in central Rotterdam established by two railway employees in 1855. Initially, G.M. van den Bergh and F. van der Valk cultivated a small garden beside the railway in Rotterdam, which included a water basin where they kept a few exotic birds, reflecting their passion for animals. The garden quickly attracted attention among the citizens of Rotterdam, prompting others to join in expanding the space and adding more animals. By 1856, a larger plot adjacent to the railway was leased, with a garden house becoming a small clubhouse. For a fee of ten guilders, respected citizens could become members of this early version of the zoo, marking the inception of what would become the Rotterdam Zoological Garden.
With support from the public, the initiative grew rapidly, and soon, a formal commission was established to create an Association to further develop the garden into a fully-fledged zoological institution. Issuance of shares raised 300,000 guilders - exceeding the original goal of 200,000, and with the shareholders legally member of the Association (de Vereeniging). On 27 March 1857, an official board was elected, and within months, construction began under the guidance of the renowned Zochter family from Haarlem, who specialized in landscape design for estates and city parks. On 15 September 1857, the statutes of ‘de Vereeniging Rotterdamsche Diergaarde (The Rotterdam Zoological Garden Association)” were approved by royal decree, establishing 1857 as the zoo’s official founding year. Its first director was Pierre Henri Martin, who had much experience with (exotic) animals as he had owned a large menagerie which he had donated to Amsterdam Zoo (Artis). Apparently he had been a lion tamer, and his expertise infused an element of intrigue and admiration among Rotterdam’s residents.
Aerial photograph of the railway station Rotterdam Delftsche Poort and the zoo – around 1920. (Source: Nederlands Instituut voor Militaire Historie/Wikimedia Commons; Photograph Technische Dienst Luchtvaartafdeeling, precursor of the present Royal Netherlands Air Force; licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license.)
The early days of the zoo reflected 19th-century notions of animal exhibits, with animals housed in simple enclosures focused on showcasing exotic fauna. Over the years, the zoo became a central part of Rotterdam’s social fabric, playing a significant role in local society. An imposing new clubhouse was constructed in 1874, featuring a 1,000-seat banquet hall, a reading room, dining halls, and a grand terrace, providing a prestigious meeting place. The zoo also became famous for its greenhouses, such as the greenhouse (1886), designed to house the giant Amazonian water lily (Victoria amazonica). Another striking glass structure, the Flora greenhouse, incorporated the novel material of cast iron and boasted a 32-meter dome crowned by a statue of the Roman goddess Flora, hosting exhibitions of spring flowers each Easter. In 1878, the ‘Prince Hendrik’ greenhouse was transported to the zoo from the Royal residence in Soestdijk and housed a diverse plant collection, including a cactus wing added around 1900.
During its early decades, the zoo catered primarily to affluent members, with restrictions on access for working-class citizens, while younger visitors had to refrain from bringing sticks into the zoo to prevent animal teasing. The zoo became a venue for concerts on a regular basis, and despite the exclusive air, by the 1860s, certain times were designated for broader public access.
Expanding Attractions and Early Conservation Efforts
In addition to animals, the zoo offered a variety of attractions, including a lava-rock grotto with an observation tower, small aquariums, and demonstration events, such as African sailors showcasing canoeing skills in the ponds. By the early 20th century, the zoo’s facilities expanded to include a large sea lion pool, which made headlines in 1922 when an adventurous sea lion escaped into the nearby canal, sparking an exciting public pursuit.
The 1920s saw financial challenges emerge. The zoo fell out of fashion due to the rise of the ideas of Carl Hagenbeck, who made zoos more attractive for animals and visitors by introducing moats as barriers, while removing fences and bars. In addition, due to urban expansion, city council was interested in the ground in central Rotterdam. In order to turn the tide financially, it was decided to make membership cheaper, exhibitions and fairs were organised and lighting was installed so that the garden could also be visited in the evening. The number of days on which non-members could visit the zoo were also increased. Despite all these measures, the financial situation remained dire. This prompted discussions about relocating the zoo to a less expensive location, but first the immediate financial problems had to be addressed. As the Amsterdamsche Bank no longer provided any further credit, the board of the Association found Volkskracht willing to provide funding for necessary changes. In October 1938, the Association was transformed into a Foundation, and by the end of that year, the plans for relocation were finalized and approved. See some historical footage of the zoo at its location near the ‘Delftsche Poort’ railway station here.
In 1940, the zoo began moving to Rotterdam’s Blijdorp district. Architect Sybold van Ravesteyn played a crucial role in designing the new Rotterdam Zoo, creating buildings and habitats that were not only functional but visually captivating, incorporating elements of Art Deco and modernist design. His work aimed to blend the natural landscape with animal enclosures, creating a more immersive experience for visitors. In December 1940, the zoo reopened in the Blijdorp district, becoming Diergaarde Blijdorp and one of the first zoos in Europe designed in full by an architect, with modern zoological practices in mind, emphasizing larger, more naturalistic enclosures (read more).
World War II: Destruction and Resilience
In the spring of 1940, demolition work had begun on the grounds of the old zoo. Several animals were still present on the grounds when the war broke out, and the warfront suddenly reached the river flowing through Rotterdam (Nieuwe Maas). In the first days of the war, the old zoo came under fire several times, but on May 14th, the day of the strategic bombing of Rotterdam, the zoo was severely hit. The food warehouse, workshop, and the valuable library - all went up in flames. Animal enclosures, such as the elephant house and the monkey house, were also struck and caught fire. Despite efforts to save the animals, several perished in the flames, including an elephant and two lions. A day earlier, during an air raid with eighteen high-explosive bombs, there had already been a large slaughter among the animals. Everywhere, maimed or escaped animals roamed the premises. In the carnivore house, the ceilings had collapsed, but the predators were still alive. After some deliberation, the zoo's director at the time, Dr. K. Kuiper, decided to have the predators (eight tigers, seven lions, and several jaguars) shot. Here and there, heads and wings of ostriches lay scattered around, and elk antelopes wandered around with their bellies torn open.
Obviously, the outbreak of the war delayed the relocation process. The staff faced impossible decisions about euthanizing animals to prevent further risk or suffering. However, with resilient staff efforts and public support, the remaining animals were gradually transferred to Blijdorp, where operations continued throughout the war years. The new zoo opened a part of the new facilities for the public on 13 July 1940, while full admittance was possible on 7 December that year. Despite food shortages, the zoo’s population remarkably increased, enabling Rotterdam Zoo to help restock other war-affected European zoos after the war.
Post-War Growth and Development
The war was not only a great strain on the animals and the staff, but it also depleted the finances and Volkskracht's willingness to continue providing financial support. As a result, in 1948, the municipality took over the debt to Volkskracht, and the zoo became dependent on the municipality's subsidy policy.
After the war, Blijdorp, as the zoo was affectionately called after it had moved to the new location, embraced new conservation initiatives, acquiring endangered species like orangutans, gorillas, and Przewalski’s horses. The zoo’s collection continued to grow with additions such as an okapi enclosure and large aviaries, solidifying its status as a relevant institution in species preservation.
Throughout the 20th century, the zoo expanded its conservation and education missions, establishing itself as a leader in species preservation. Blijdorp has long participated in breeding programmes for endangered species, including the Sumatran tiger, Asian elephant, and red panda, contributing significantly to global conservation efforts. As part of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), the zoo has fostered international partnerships and actively engages in the exchange of species and genetic material to support biodiversity.
So, Blijdorp developed into a modern zoo, including the establishment of the Vereniging Vrienden van Blijdorp (Friends of Blijdorp Association) in 1963, from its inception until the 1970s with the pre-war depression and WWII as disturbing factors that were overcome. The 1970s and 80s, however, show us another picture.
See what a visit to the Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp) looked like in 1963:
The attitude of people towards the animals on display was different then, while many enclosures still needed to be upgraded to meet the standard at the time.
(Source: Rotterdam City Archives – via Archieven.nl; Collection Bewegend Beeld THA; author J.C. de Geus; copyright holder Municipality of Rotterdam (City Archives); copyright status unknown)
A whole new wind was blowing through the Netherlands. Youth culture reigned, and anything ‘old’ was deemed less valuable. Rotterdam Zoo (Blijdorp), at forty years old, was seen as outdated and in need of improvement. In the spirit of the times, being vegetarian was trendy, organic farming was gaining popularity, and zoos were seen as collections of cages holding pitiful animals. Whether due to changing societal attitudes or an outdated, hierarchical organizational culture, the zoo itself was also changing. Blijdorp turned inward. In the ethics of animal care, the intrinsic value of animals was gaining importance, aligning with the ideals of nature conservation. The focus shifted from viewing animals as mere exhibits to valuing them as ambassadors for their counterparts in the wild. Breeding rare animals was regarded as so important that visitors were seen as unimportant or even bothersome. The result of the changing zeitgeist and Blijdorp’s relative neglect of visitors was a sharp decline in attendance numbers.
The period from 1980 to 1986 is referred to as the "seven lean years," an economically challenging time. The Rotterdam city council grew weary of the financial black hole that Blijdorp had become. While new constructions did occasionally appear in the zoo, it was the maintenance of existing structures that increasingly worried staff. They witnessed the buildings slowly deteriorate. Recognizing the need for appropriate action, a master plan committee was formed in 1986.
Initially, the plan was worked on secretly, while overdue maintenance was being addressed and even new enclosures were built. For instance, in 1985, a completely renovated and greatly improved ape house was delivered. It took some time to design the master plan, as the zoo ultimately needed to be completely recreated, from a dilapidated 19th-century zoo to a modern zoo that is future-proof. In 1988, the plan was completed and made public through a brochure entitled Blijdorp in Perspective. The animals were to be housed in naturally designed enclosures, called biotopes, and arranged according to the continents where they are naturally found. Buildings would be hidden behind natural-looking facades or placed underground. Nature conservation should play a key role in the collection policy, along with education.
Architect Gerard Schroeder was brought on board for the development and renovation according to the master plan, which began in February 1989 and already that year led to a miraculous transformation. Construction was in full swing! It convinced the Rotterdam City Council, which agreed to secure a subsidy for Blijdorp for 15 years. And even better, in October 1990, the City Council decided that Blijdorp could expand - 11 hectares of land on the other side of the railway line was made available for this purpose. This offered enormous potential and changed the layout according to the original master plan, but not its principles.
The large-scale changes initiated in 1989 show significant additions and modifications, with the first being a Chinese garden, Asian swamp, bat cave, and a Mongolian steppe with camels. In 1994, the Taman Indah complex opened, showcasing a tropical habitat for elephants and tapirs, with the first group elephant stall in the Netherlands. A new entrance and parking lot were created on the newly acquired extension of 11 hectares.
In 1992, Diergaarde Blijdorp is designated a municipal monument, influenced by the people of Rotterdam, who feared that Van Ravesteyn's architectural masterpiece would be lost amid the master plan's extensive changes. Initially, this designation seemed to mainly offer the advantage of obtaining subsidies for building renovations. However, it soon became clear that the monument status was more of an obstacle to implementing various innovations.
Nevertheless new buildings and enclosures could still be built, which indeed happened. The first and impressive highlight was the Oceanium, a major aquarium complex completed in 2001, immersing visitors in a vast underwater world, focusing on marine life from the Atlantic Ocean. The Oceanium features sea lions, otters, and king penguins, and enhances Blijdorp’s educational reach while underscoring its commitment to highlighting ecological connections and fostering a broader understanding of biodiversity. The Oceanium was still constructed as part of the first master plan from 1988, but other significant changes took place based on the follow-up, master plan II from 2004. It builds on the previous principles, continuing innovation, expansions, and the development of immersive ecosystems.
Continuous updates followed: the tiger enclosure, designed in such a way that little was changed to the old polar bear and sea lion enclosure, which is a monument (opened in 2005); a migrating bird aviary in 2007; the Oewanja children’s Jungle in 2005 and Oewanja Lodge (restaurant) in 2006; a polar bear exhibit in 2008, drawing visitors from around the world; and the Savannah House for giraffes and hyenas in the shape of a baobab tree (popularly called "the onion") in 2009.
Current Situation
Today, Blijdorp is much more than the historical zoo with the many monuments. The original park layout has been transformed into a biotope model, where animals are placed in a natural environment. This model has evolved further into impact areas that not only improve animal welfare but also contribute to nature conservation and restoration. Visitors can enjoy various themes and atmospheres, such as the African savannah and Asian biotopes, while the historical elements of Van Ravesteyn are still recognizably present. In recent years, many monuments have already been restored and full restoration supposed to be ready in 2030.
Future
‘Stagnation is regression,’ as they often say, and that’s why Blijdorp looks ahead. They developed the master plan 2050, marking a transformation from a traditional zoo to a nature restoration organization - a driving force for ecological restoration. Blijdorp’s unique position is leveraged to create a tangible and lasting impact. With this new master plan Blijdorp introduces a new mission: Together we bring nature back to life! And the ambition that by 2050, Rotterdam Zoo will have demonstrably contributed to the rescue of ten (severely) endangered animal and plant species. These species being: Dalmatian Pelican, Vietnamese pond turtle, Antillean iguana, Surgeonfish, Rwanda water lily, Asian elephant, Pygmy hippopotamus, Red panda, Common skate, Rüppells vulture.
With this ambitious plan, which is far from final, Blijdorp describes how the park should look in a few decades. They are considering the creation of new themed worlds, which will henceforth be called 'impact areas.' Currently, Blijdorp is divided into continents. Some existing sections of the park may remain more or less in their current form, but under a new name. In other areas, however, radical changes are needed. For example, in the future, the park will likely bid farewell to polar bears, arctic foxes, bison, vicuñas, butterflies, and the Australian section with wallabies. The fate of the Asia House is uncertain. There have been plans for some time for the Asian elephants: their enclosure needs to be doubled in size. In the Oceanium, the focus will be on the North Sea and the Caribbean. Not far from there, the African Jungle will rise, likely in the form of a gigantic tropical hall with a climate-controlled roof. This could house animals such as bongos, armored crocodiles, okapis, and pygmy hippos. The aviaries of the African Jungle opened in July 2024 as the first new enclosure within the 2050 master plan.
More information on the master plan 2050, especially regarding the choices made, is available here.
(Source: website Rotterdam Zoo, accessed on a regular basis; website Zoosite.nl (discontinued in 2018), accessed in 2016; Iets grootsch & buitengewoons - 150 jaar Rotterdamse Diergaarde (ed. Adriaan Gerritsen / Blijdorp), 2007); website Ons Verleden Hedentendage – Diergaarde Blijdorp, by redactie, 18 May 2011)
Historical footage
Historical footage of the predecessor of the current Rotterdam Zoo, called 'Rotterdamsche Diergaarde'.
The footage made by Mr. Gotthard Pieter Spoel, a notary in Rotterdam, is from the 1930s - thus before the devastating bombing of Rotterdam during WWII, and has been donated to the Rotterdam City Archives by a Rotterdam family. The Zoo was located adjacent to the former main railway station 'Delftsche Poort', which was targeted during the air raid in May 1940. Although work on the new Zoo in the Blijdorp district was in progress and relocation of the animals was foreseen, the bombing not only destroyed the railway station effectively, but the old zoo including most animals as well .
The video begins with a meeting between Mr. Spoel's wife, Jaantje Spoel-Kleppe, and his niece, Elisabeth Spoel, on 3 June 1932. Next they start visiting and feeding the animals, which was a common activity in those days. The video is a compilation of footage shot during the early 1930s, in summer as well as in winter. You will recognise flamingo, stork, swan, pelican, gull, zebra, parrots, blackbuck, sable antelope, fallow deer, macaque and many other species. Chimpanzees are playing on the lawn without being physically separated from the public. Kangaroos are play-fighting and elephant rides are an attraction. And probably the most spectacular enclosure of the old Zoo is featured with the 500 m2 basin for California sea lion and the 8 metre high rock face designed by Urs Eggyswyler - the architect who designed the rocky landscapes of Hagenbeck's Tierpark in Hamburg.
(Source: Rotterdam City Archives; Iets grootsch & buitengewoons - 150 jaar Rotterdamse Diergaarde (ed. Adriaan Gerritsen / Blijdorp), 2007)
When Rotterdam Zoo moved to a new location, 1939-1940
The old Zoo was located adjacent to the former main railway station 'Delftsche Poort', which was targeted during the air raid in May 1940. The footage from 17 November 1939 shows first the members only entrance of the old Zoo and several animals in their cages - a tiger, several monkeys and a lion. Next, the first animal shelters in the old Zoo are being torn down, after which an aerial view shows the Zoo with the demolished buildings, while construction work is ongoing at the new site in the Blijdorp district of Rotterdam.
Despite the ongoing work on the new Zoo and relocation of the animals, the bombing of Rotterdam in the beginning of WWII in May 1940 killed most of the animals in the buildings that still existed. Fortunately, construction work of the new Zoo continued, and the footage of 9 December 1940 shows 'Diergaarde Blijdorp' in an almost completed state. It is the first zoo ever that was completely designed from scratch by one architect, in this case Sybold van Ravesteyn. You'll see the famous Riviera Hall, that together with many other buildings later became listed as national protected architectonic sites - which obstructs many of the necessary modernisations the Zoo management wants to establish nowadays. The watchtower that was connected to the Riviera Hall, however, was demolished in 1972, because it became a threat to the public when it started to deteriorate and was much to expensive to renovate.
(Source: Netherlands Institute for Sound and Vision, Iets grootsch & buitengewoons - 150 jaar Rotterdamse Diergaarde (ed. Adriaan Gerritsen / Blijdorp), 2007)
Sybold van Ravesteyn, architect
Rotterdam-born architect Sybold van Ravesteyn, known for designing stations and signal houses throughout the Netherlands for the national railway service, was given the unique assignment to design the entire Diergaarde Blijdorp (Rotterdam Zoo) on his own. Hence, Van Ravesteyn’s design occupies a unique place in the history of Dutch architecture. His vision extended beyond just buildings; he meticulously planned interiors, stables, walkways, outdoor enclosures, and landscaping. Originally an advocate of the ‘Nieuwe Bouwen’ (the New Constructing) movement, which emphasized functionalism and simplicity, Van Ravesteyn began to feel that aesthetics were lacking in this style. 
He transitioned to using curved lines, ornaments, and applied arts - a whimsical and distinctive approach not always appreciated at the time but now seen as integral to the character of Blijdorp, as the zoo is called by Rotterdam residents. His playful style, now preserved as a national heritage site since 2007, is especially apparent at the zoo's old main entrance on the Van Aerssenlaan.
This entrance, restored in 2009, is welcoming and inventive, with two curving inlets - one with three wrought iron gates framed by tall marble-covered columns adorned with animal sculptures, and the other with five ticket booths under a canopy. Above the booths, the words ‘Diergaarde Blijdorp’ glow in elegant, airy neon lettering beside the zoo’s logo: two stylized giraffe heads. Ceramic figures at child’s eye level adorn the ticket booths, and painted metal monkeys decorate the nearby round-shaped zoo shop. Throughout the zoo, similar playful ornaments reveal Van Ravesteyn's whimsical touch. He commissioned painters and sculptors to create artworks that seamlessly integrated into his architectural vision.
A tour along the listed buildings (national monuments) bearing Van Ravesteyn’s distinctive style - some of which have since been restored and modernized - reveals his dedication to symmetry. A central axis arranged symmetrically held the bear theatre, predator house, Riviera Hall, an observation tower (demolished in 1972 due to structural issues), a pond with basins, the giraffe house, and the tea house. Paths and outdoor enclosures radiated symmetrically from this axis, a layout still evident despite later renovations and changes. In the aerial photograph the symmetry Van Ravesteyn designed is obvious:
In his design, Van Ravesteyn showed modern insights by creating relatively spacious animal enclosures and replacing cages and fences with moats, inspired by Carl Hagenbeck’s pioneering approach. However, his primary focus remained on architecture and aesthetics, with animal welfare being a secondary consideration. After the bombing of Rotterdam in 1940, the surviving animals from the old zoo were transferred to the new site, which officially opened in December of that year. Van Ravesteyn’s design, while celebrated, also faced criticism for being more focused on visual appeal than on functional service to the animals. However, the architect held firmly to his belief in ‘festive architecture with a nearly magical defiance of impending disaster’. The German occupiers present at the zoo’s opening raised no objections, despite the extensive use of concrete, glass, and steel, along with the architect's dramatic, flowing roofs and round steel windows.
Aerial photo of Diergaarde Blijdorp and surroundings, 1948, with in the foreground on the right houses on the Bentincklaan and the Statensingel, and further on the right the Van Aerssenlaan in the Blijdorp district. Image taken from the southeast. (Source: Rotterdam City Archives – via Archieven.nl; Collection panorama and aerial images, KLM aerocarto; image is in the public domain)
The Riviera Hall, the main building, was designed as a winter garden filled with tropical plants, meant to evoke the exotic ambiance of the French Riviera. 
This hall, resembling a cathedral in structure, was used during and after the war for dinners, gatherings, concerts, fashion shows, and boxing matches, as much of Rotterdam lay in ruins. Today, it functions as an indoor playground, bustling with children on rainy days. The restored left wing houses large animals, including three highly endangered black rhinos. At the other end of the zoo’s axis are the beautifully restored former giraffe house and tea pavilion, two symmetrical buildings connected by a colonnade.
Modern zoo standards impose very different requirements than those of eighty years ago, but Blijdorp strives to balance Van Ravesteyn’s legacy with evolving approaches to animal welfare, presentation, education, and operation. Adapting a national heritage site to meet animal welfare needs while preserving the original character of the building requires extensive coordination among architects, the city’s architectural commission, and zookeepers.
Many years of necessary or imposed changes made Van Ravesteyn’s original concept less visible. So, being a national heritage site, the monumental entrance area of Diergaarde Blijdorp at the Van Aerssenlaan got restored to its former glory, in 2009. The restoration is an initiative of the Volkskracht Foundation for Historic Monuments, which is funding and executing the project in consultation with Blijdorp. Architect Cees Rouw is overseeing the project. Furthermore, Blijdorp is also got its famous observation tower back, which was demolished in 1972. In 2007, the city council allocated 4.5 million euros for the tower’s reconstruction as well as for the restoration of the Riviera Hall.
Today, visitors can enjoy various themed areas and atmospheres at the zoo, such as the African savanna and Asian biotopes, while Van Ravesteyn’s historical elements remain clearly present. Diergaarde Blijdorp, boasts no fewer than 21 listed buildings or national monuments currently. Much of the site has been restored in recent years, and work is ongoing. By 2030, Blijdorp aims to have restored all 21 listed buildings, including the iconic Riviera Hall. Additionally, a quality standard and a "Management and Maintenance Plan" are being developed to keep the monuments in good condition and preserve their historical value.
(Source: Monumentaal Blijdorp, VPRO, by Maarten van Bracht, 26 September 2017; website Rotterdam Zoo, Diergaarde Blijdorp; Ir. S. van Ravesteyn – Diergaarde Blijdorp, by Joh de Vries, publisher De Hef, 1986)
Visit(s)
08.04.2012
It has been a while since I visited Rotterdam Zoo. Although the Zoo suffers severe budget cuts several improvements have been made or are underway. Partly thanks to the Friends of the Zoo Association a brand new raccoon enclosure is established, the Stellar's eagles (Haliaeetus pelagicus) aviary has been opened as well as the arctic fox pen (Vulpes lagopus), and major adjustments and renovation are being made to the Zoo's Asia continent. It is a huge project that they got themselves in to, and at the time of visit it would not be right to judge because works were ongoing still. Nevertheless it is worth mentioning the 'swampy forest' that is under development, but was ready for visitors yet. In what you can call a sneak preview, I was able to have a look at the three interconnected islands that housed the Sulawesi crested macaques (Macaca nigra). Though not extremely large the islands seem fit for purpose for these old world monkeys.
Not so much renovation or novel, but still an improvement was the extension of the Asian lions quarters. Finally, they gained access to the former hyaena enclosure adjacent to the lion enclosure which doubled their space. The two lion cubs, born on 13.11.2011, who recently were allowed outside certainly made use of this newly conquered world very effectively. They played to their hearts content, I would say (see video).
I 
n spite of these happy events there are some gloomy days ahead, as the Zoo has to say farewell to two of the elephants. They will leave for Prague Zoo. Mother Donna is disturbing the herd's pecking order lately and cannot be retained in the herd. As her calf, Tonya, is too young to be separated from her mother she will accompany her mother on the trip to Prague. Already both animals are separated from the herd and are being prepared for transport. Especially the calf is trained now to get used to be chained to the leg, therefore you see the chain around her left foreleg in the picture on the right.
27.03.2011
At last, I saw the polar bear cub. It was a beautiful day and many people joined me watching mother and cub exploring their enclosure. I wished the sponsor of this little polar bear had decided otherwise, but the little feller (they think it is a boy, but it is not sure yet, I believe) will be known as Vicks, the brand name of the sponsor - a candy producer. Although the cub likes to explore its environment, it stays close to its mum in case protection is needed. Olinka is an experienced mother and does not panic easily. Nevertheless, when Vicks accidentally 
went swimming today, she insisted that the cub came ashore as soon as possible. Eric, the cub's father, watched his descendant from a distance. Let's hope the genes Vicks inherited will allow him to keep the European Zoo population of polar bears healthy, which cannot be said of Knut, the Berlin bear that suddenly passed away last week, unfortunately.
From the polar bear grounds I moved to the hyena enclosure, where I saw the hyena cub conjoined with his mother in the sun, impersonating a real lazybones. Nothing much to see, I went to the European otters, who I haven't seen since they were moved to their new enclosure. This new enclosure is not very attractive, and could do with some enrichment. As for now, it is just a big pool with two small islands. The only shelter they have got is their indoor enclosure. So, they can do with some additional objects in their environment to satisfy their curiosity and natural explorative behaviour. Fortunately, they are playful and do not seem depressed. They are seeking contact with the public which makes them fun to watch, but we are probably just their daily distraction to prevent boredom.
2010
17.10.2010
Recently, Rotterdam Zoo announced that the two sea otters will join their mother again in Lisbon Aquarium. The two sea otter sisters were on loan from the Portugese Aquarium to try and generate offspring. Unfortunately, several attempts - including artificial insemination - did not bring the long awaited pregnancy. Furthermore, all the male sea otters in European zoos have died in captivity, now. So, there are only three female sea otters left in Europe. The old mother in Lisbon, who lost her male companion this spring, and her two daughters. As it became obvious that it will be impossible to get a male sea otter to Europe on short notice, breeding with the two sea otter sisters will not be possible anymore in Europe. The decision to reunite mother with daughters was made and one of the highlights of every single visit of me to Rotterdam Zoo will be gone soon. But today the public could still enjoy the social behaviour of the two ever so lively animals. Floating on their back next to each other, handing over food while twisting and turning, they make everybody stop at their enclosure and smile. These happy two will bring some sunshine in their mother's life again soon. Rotterdam Zoo will miss them.
Another happy and playful couple are the two Sumatran tiger cubs. They have a playful mother too, who even invites them to join her in some rough-housing. They put on a nice show during my visit on this cold and sunny afternoon. The same sun is reason for the ring-tailed lemurs to show the typical buddha-posture while sunbathing in their enclosure, the former colobus monkey island. These lemurs have been absent from Rotterdam Zoo for about 30 years, but rivalry in a large group of these social animals in Apeldoorn Zoo provided the opportunity to welcome a group of 10 beautiful lemurs from Apeldoorn in July of this year. It seems to me that the lemurs are better off than the former inhabitants, the colobus monkeys. Because their new exhibit is more cage-like, and very close to the public, while the island is a confined area without fences and quite some distance from the ever 'peeping' visitors. Nevertheless, both enclosures offer good climbing facilities, enrichment these primates require.
10.08.2010
The sole purpose of this visit was to have a look at the Savannah area in its final stage, and if possible see the Sumatran tiger cubs, which were born on 10 May this year. The cubs were outside, but were hiding from the rain. The two of them were sitting close together in their hideout, curiously looking at the rain and the wet environment, but were hard to identify by the public. I have to return on a dry and sunny day to watch them explore their environment. The Savannah area was recently extended with three new enclosures. The servals, colobus monkeys, and the vultures are being housed now in the African Savannah, where they belong. The vulture rock, indeed contains an artificial big rock but the vultures seem to prefer the tree as observation post. It is a walk-in enclosure which enables close encounters. The enclosure is occupied by five different species - hooded vulture, white-backed vulture, Ruppell's vulture, marabou stork, grey crowned crane, Southern ground-hornbill -, which can express their normal daily behaviour. Even the vultures can do some flying exercises (time slot dependent to prevent collisions; my attitude is not very positive when aviaries are concerned). Unfortunately, the railway track which prevents zoo expansion is disturbingly close by.The servals will experience improvement when they compare their new house to the former one. When they roam around in their territory they can see kudus, zebras and giraffes and they can imagine living in their natural African environment, except for the wire mesh that limits their territory. Apart from the species mentioned already, the European otters have been relocated too. In my opinion that is not an improvement, because their new home in the Chinese garden is less exciting than the old one. Less places to hide and everything more straightforward, but still a large playground with sufficient water for two otters. Sometimes sacrifices have to be made on a small scale to create generic upgrades, I suppose.
07.02.2010
There is a lot of work in progress these days. The new hyena enclosure is now occupied by the hyenas. The new facilities do not look very attractive at the moment. This has got a lot to do with the time of year (it's winter, so all trees and shrubs are quite bare), and perhaps there is some influence from the railway-line that is visible and audible. The hyenas have been transfered from the old lion enclosure. There they have been neighbours of the Asian lions waiting to be housed in the new Africa zone, the savannah. Their transfer allows for extension of te lion enclosure. The lions will like some extra space in the outdoor enclosure. But to my honest opinion the indoors facility needs some refurbishment too. This was for everybody to notice today, because the lion cub Naui, born on 09.09.09 with no siblings, was inside today. So, everybody went in and was thrilled to see the extrovert cub. But there was more to see: the old-fashioned small cages that do not provide a lot of room, and no environmental enrichments whatsoever.
There are two more additions expected this year to the new Africa zone. The serval enclosure and the free flight cage for vultures. It will be a relieve for the servals, because they are now housed in the old row of cages just across the Riviéra-hall (one of Ravesteyn's buildings). Furthermore the old entrance is being restored, including some major works on buildings next to the entrance are on-going.
19.08.2009
The new residence of the giraffes, which is part of the African savannah under development, is of a stunning photogenic architecture. An asset to the garden, that's for sure. This entire area, representing the African continental fauna, is to be further expanded and soon the construction will be started of a serval-enclosure. Finally, these magnificent cats will have their own dignified environment. The last few years the servals were moved several times, but the different enclosures wherein they were housed, did not do them credit. These enclosures did not even have decent signs to inform the visitor of their inhabitants, which stresses its temporariness.
The new giraffe exhibit is called 'Baobab', because the designer was inspired by this African tree. The Baobab has a flexible interior layout, made possible by the modern gate system that has been used. The hay baskets are hanging down from a hoist on a umbrella-like structure. They can be operated remotely, to lower the baskets to fill, and hoist them again to offer the feed to the giraffes at a natural and convenient height. It seems that solar cells are mounted to operate the hoists by solar energy. In any case, this could work, because the entire roof of the enclosure is composed of translucent plastic.
Via a footbridge you reach the observation platform inside the enclosure. There, you have arrived directly at eye level of the giraffes. This increases the potential close encounter with the animals, which is our essential goal isn't it? The animals are a little jumpy, but this is not a surprise. They have been moved to this new house just recently. Nevertheless they already come dangerously close to the railing of the viewing platform with their heads.
21.09.2008
Major renovation is still underway. The polar bears who were temporarily moved to another zoo, are back. Their new home, part of Arctica, was opened in July this year. The arctic foxes who will also be housed in Arctica are now temporarily housed in the old cat cages.
A nice enclosure with "close encounter" opportunity is that of the prairie dogs. It is a must-see. The Sumatran tigers will also be happy with their new environment with lots of vegetation.
The outside enclosure for the gorillas, offers the animals a quiet private space protected from the public. Through a limited number of windows the gorillas can be seen and also from above from the footpaths along the walls that form the artificial boundary of the enclosure.
Gallery
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009
1980
Times were changing during the 1970s and 1980s, and Rotterdam Zoo wasn't keeping up with that change. In fact, not a lot happened with respect to enclosure design and improvement. The Zoo buildings deteriorated and stopped making Rotterdam citizens proud, while at the same time animal welfare was neglected. Visitor numbers dropped and the economic viability of the Zoo was at risk, to say the least. Hence, a Masterplan to modernise the Zoo was drafted and presented in 1988. Funds were raised and work commenced, including a fortunate occasion in October 1990 when City Council decided to make available another 11 hectares for the Zoo's future plans.
Some of these pictures of the 1980s show enclosures that needed to be upgraded or modernised for the animal's sake. At the same time they portray several species that once belong to the Zoo's animal collection, such as the brown bear, clouded leopard, white rhinoceros and Przewalski horse, but are no longer there.
Video
2018
Black rhino calf frolicking on a cold and sunny Sunday
This three weeks old black rhinoceros calf, born 23 December 2017, knows exactly how to make an entrance. First she couldn't wait to leave her mother's womb unexpectedly early. Secondly, she proves to be fearless when preceding her mother entering the outdoor enclosure.
This female calf is the second black rhino calf ever to be born in a Dutch Zoo. The first one was born 57 years ago - also in Rotterdam Zoo.
2017
Polar bears in the snow
The first snow of winter 2017/18 is an unexpected surprise for the Polar bear mum and her adolescent cubs. These are weather conditions that should be mandatory they believe.
2016
Indian rhino impersonating a hippo
Whoever thought rhinos need really hot weather before taking a bath, he or she thought wrong. This Indian rhinoceros voluntarily stepped into the pool while outside temperatures just reached 10 °C. Don't let the sunshine fool you - it will never be hot and steamy in the beginning of April in the Netherlands.
Lion-tailed macaque youngster
Just a very brief impression of the energetic little lion-tailed macaque (Macaca silenus), born November 2015 (so, four months old in this footage). It's a lively little bugger and seemingly not afraid of anything.
2015
The grayish brown polar bear twin cubs
Born on 2 December 2014 these polar bear cubs have developed into two independent individuals after six months. They don't need Mum anymore, they have each other. For some serious roughhousing, for fun and a swim, although one needs more persuasion than the other to plunge into the pool.
Polar bear white is not the colour they think is suitable for the Rotterdam Zoo situation, so some rolling around on the ground gives them a nice camouflage colour - impersonating a grizzly. Too bad it wears off in the water though.
By the way, when they get really really tired they still fall asleep against Mum.
Northern carmine bee-eater at the job
The okapi in the new enclosure at Rotterdam Zoo - that opened to the public Spring 2015 - are being kept company by several species, such as the crested guinea fowl (Guttera pucherani) and the northern carmine bee-eater (Merops nubicus). The latter you will see enjoy one of his favourite dishes in this video. But pay attention, because after a brief shot of the outdoor pen of the okapi and zooming in on the bee-eater, the bee-eating starts and finishes in a few seconds.
2014
Black rhino taking a mud bath
Black rhinoceroses have returned to Rotterdam Zoo. They are kept in the revamped pachyderm wing of the Rivierahal, one of the historic and original buildings designed by architect Sybold van Ravensteyn. This footage of a black rhino taking a mud bath was taken about a year after the grand opening on 14 September 2013.
2013
Spotted hyena and her little snack
Obviously, the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) found her 'prey' and is taking it somewhere else to enjoy the juicy spare-ribs quietly, without inquisitive spectators making comments about her table manners.
2012
Asian lion cubs, born 13.11.2011, having fun:
2011
See the European otters (Lutra lutra) interact with the public:
More info
Some additional information, such as contact details and involvement in breeding programmes.
Location
Directions
Directions to Rotterdam Zoo
Address main entrance:
Blijdorplaan 8
3041JG
Rotterdam
Netherlands
city-side entrance:
Van Aerssenlaan 49
3039KE
Rotterdam
Public transport
Central Station: 12 minutes' walk or bus service 40 or 44 to entrance Riviera Hall or bus service 40 or 33 to entrance Oceanium. Metrostation Blijdorp (E-line) 5 minutes walk.
Click here to plan your journey by public transport >(choose as destination 'attraction' and fill in Diergaarde Blijdorp)
By bicycle
To the left of the historical entrance at the city-side, Van Aerssenlaan, there is free bicycle parking. At the new entrance, Oceanium-side, plenty of bicycle racks are provided.
By Car
On the Northern ring road take exit no. 13 'Blijdorp'. Supervised parking (€ 8.00).
