Conservation
Since its creation, the Ménagerie collection has developed considerably, focusing on small and medium-sized species adapted to the pens and encloswures of the park. Endangered species are to be found in their natural environment alongside complementary species from the collections of the other zoological parks belonging to the Museum. From the gigantic Indian bison to the tiniest spiders, from the red panda to giant tortoises, the Ménagerie presents 150 species, a third of which are threatened with extinction. Many are involved in cooperative breeding programmes of the EAZA, the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria.
Preservation of Endangered Species
Small and medium-sized species form most of the collection, many of them threatened with extinction. Among them are the red pandas, snow leopards, Arabian oryx, orangutans, bustards, white-naped cranes, and Aldabra giant tortoises. The zoo has played a pioneering role among zoo parks, by choosing to keep very few very large animals whose size is not adapted to the characteristics of the site. The majority of the animals here were born in captivity and arrived through exchanges and loans with other zoos.
Animal Welfare
The welfare of the animals is the primary concern in designing the layout of the enclosures. Making sure their basic needs are fulfilled determines the design of features to enrich their behavioural environment. Keepers are always trying to outdo each other to give animals games and exploration tasks, such as increasing the time it takes to find a food treat.
Baby Boom
Each year, spring, love is the season for new life at the Ménagerie! Amur or clouded leopards, red pandas, Przewalski's horses, lots of primates, birds, reptiles and amphibians are born on site each year. Species endangered in the wild find hope of survival in captivity.