Qalqilya Zoo
Qalqilya
Qalqilya Zoo, established in 1986 in the Palestinian city of Qalqilya, is the only zoo in the State of Palestine, spanning 2 hectares. It houses approximately 170 animals including lions, brown bears, crocodiles, ostriches, camels, deer, gazelles, zebras, birds, lizards, snakes, and various monkeys. The zoo features spacious and clean enclosures comparable in size to those in major zoos like London Zoo. It also includes a small Natural History museum with nearly 100 taxidermized exotic animals, a children's entertainment park built partly on a former swimming pool, and on-site restaurants. The zoo was originally conceived as a symbol of Arab-Israeli cooperation, with Israeli zoos assisting in stocking animals. Despite challenges during the Second Intifada, including restricted access and tragic animal losses, the zoo has persisted through the dedication of its staff and support from Israeli veterinarians. It remains a popular attraction for both local visitors and tourists, offering educational and recreational experiences in a landscaped park setting.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check opening hours in advance and consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds. Group visits may require prior arrangement, especially due to occasional access restrictions. The zoo offers educational experiences suitable for families and school groups. Purchasing tickets on-site is common, but confirming availability ahead of time is recommended. Discounts may be available for children and groups.
Interesting facts
- •Qalqilya Zoo is the only zoo in the State of Palestine.
- •The zoo was established as a symbol of Arab-Israeli cooperation with Israeli zoos helping to stock animals.
- •During the Second Intifada, the zoo's only male giraffe, frightened by gunfire, died after running into a pole.
- •The resident veterinarian, Sami Khadr, is a self-taught taxidermist who preserved several deceased animals for the zoo's museum.
- •Three lions named Jafer, Jaras, and Naboko were donated by the Ramat Gan Safari park and called "the kings of peace."
- •The zoo's enclosures are spacious and comparable in size to those of the London Zoo.
History
Qalqilya Zoo was founded in 1986 as the only zoo in Palestine, initiated by the city's mayor and supported by Israeli zoos to symbolize cooperation.
It quickly became a prominent Palestinian institution and a popular destination for both Arabs and Israelis.
The outbreak of the Second Intifada severely impacted visitation and animal welfare, leading to tragic incidents such as the death of the zoo's male giraffe and zebras affected by tear gas.
Despite these hardships, the zoo survived due to the efforts of its resident veterinarian and staff.
In 2004, the zoo received significant animal donations from the Ramat Gan Safari park, including lions dubbed "the kings of peace."
Place Guide
Natural History Museum
A colorful and eccentric museum within the zoo displaying nearly 100 taxidermized exotic animals preserved by the resident veterinarian, including giraffes, zebras, monkeys, wildcats, and snakes. It serves as an educational attraction for school children and visitors.
Animal Enclosures
Spacious, clean enclosures housing lions, brown bears, crocodiles, ostriches, camels, deer, gazelles, zebras, birds, lizards, snakes, and monkeys. Some enclosures are as large as those in major international zoos, providing ample room for animals to roam.
Children's Entertainment Park
An area within the zoo designed for children, partly located in a former swimming pool. It provides recreational activities and enhances the family-friendly atmosphere of the zoo.
Contact
Phone: 09-293-1818