I visited the zoo of Helsinki a few years ago. Back then, I was quite pleased by its orginal location on an island and its focus on Nordic fauna. Time doesn't stand still though and apparently the zoo is going to get a more or less complete make-over in the near future. Helsingin Sanomat - International Edition - Metro
WOW! Now that looks like impressive zooplantman. I have only ever been to the airport! Completion date? Just the size of the polar bear viewing window! How far enginering has come! Just how much further will it go????
Many interesting architecural developments in Northern Europe these days! First the new elephant house in Copenhagen and now this in Finland. Judging by the pictures it will be something really special. I love the way the architecture fits in with the landscape topography and at the same time gives a very "arctic" feel. Brilliant! And don´t forget the upcoming new Denmark Aquarium - Den blå planet (The Blue Planet): Den Blå Planet Due to be opened in 2013, it also promises to be something extraordinary. Here, as well, the architectural concept is very well thought through and the building will be in great harmony with its surroundings. Luckily for me it will be situated just half an hour´s trainride from where I live - a short and comfortable trip over the bridge between Sweden and Denmark.
The zoo has received 1.1 kulan, the 2 year old stallion from Bratislava zoo and a 4 year old mare from Tallinn. 2 Amur leopards have also been born this year. Blue throated macaws also arrived from Loro parque.
If anyone can help me, I'm putting together a database with statistics of some of the world's top zoos. Essentially, I need the annual attendance figure for Helsinki's Korkeasaari Zoo: Can anyone help me?
All 16 Chilean flamingos at the zoo have been killed by a fox BBC News - Fox kills 16 flamingos in Finland
Welcome on board again, Sun Wukong! I am interested in the Muskox & Arctic Fox mixed exhibit at Helsinki Zoo, if You will have the time to check it out (they have had this combination since 1992, but maybe not anymore, do not know exactly). AFAIK it was 'successful', but any detailed infos on their experience regarding this exhibit will be appreciated. And as You can see the Helsinki Zoo Gallery is empty.
Thanks for the welcome @Orycteropus . At my last visit, I did not see the two species combined. Will take special notice of this time. And yes, I was equally shocked to see that that bit of the gallery is a white spot. Something has (and will be) done to change that-fingers crossed. Which reminds me: be aware that I'm going to put up in more pictures of Austrian zoos.
I'm sure any exhibit photos as well as any general views of the island would be a much appreciated addition to the Helsinki gallery! Enjoy your visit.
Just wondering if anyone can help me here, you might have seen my Asian Lion database, anyone know what happened to the female cub born at Helsinki in 2005? (Named 'Xylitol')
Photos of Helsinki Zoo and Tropicario Reptile zoo have been uploaded. @Orycteropus: The Muskox & Arctic Fox combination is no more. European bisons are kept on the former muskox exhibit till their new exhibit is finished.
Changes ahead for Helsinki... Helsingin Sanomat - International Edition - Metro Vicunas, Humbolt Penguins and several Australian species on the cards for the next couple of years...