Shoushan Zoo Introduction
Shoushan Zoo in Kaohsiung City is the largest public zoo in southern Taiwan, managed by the Kaohsiung City Tourism Bureau. It is one of three municipal zoos in Taiwan, with only Taipei Zoo being larger. In 2022, the zoo improved the homes and outdoor spaces for animals, and set up animal-friendly aerial observation walkways, allowing Kaohsiung residents and visitors to observe adorable animals up close from different angles with minimal disturbance. This makes it an ideal place for family recreation, outdoor education, and ecological awareness. At Shoushan Zoo, the boundaries are softened with planting, and aerial walkways weave through the animals' habitats, complemented by raised netting fences that allow visitors to blend in and view the interactions of the animals from above. Walking into the two elevated mountain houses on the aerial bridge and the four observation corridors hanging below, visitors can see the animals in environments close to their natural habitats. Here, one can observe capybaras basking in warm water, lions lazily sunbathing, or Formosan black bears rubbing against tree trunks, experiencing the endearing realities of these animals and stepping into their homes to explore their living spaces. The revamped Shoushan Zoo has become a harmonious place to connect with nature. The pathways and roads have been improved, providing a small train to tour the park. Along the visiting route, interesting videos and informative signs are set up to help both children and adults better understand animal behaviors. The waterside plaza has transformed into a fun fountain, featuring water mist like chimneys, allowing children to engage in water fights in the refreshing pools. Additionally, the old animal enclosures have been renovated, with parts of the roofs opened to let in sunlight and rainwater, improving ventilation, cleanliness, and drainage to create comfortable living environments for the animals. A new highlight at Shoushan Zoo is the capybara, which has been introduced and kept alongside various herbivores such as llamas and mini donkeys. Visitors can admire the animals’ behaviors from above or walk to the exhibition hall for a closer, eye-level view, watching them comfortably eat, sleep, and play in their homes. Don't miss the "star animals" at Shoushan Zoo, which are treasures of Kaohsiung, including the Formosan black bear - Bobby, the couple of orangutans - Ah Hong and Mi Mi, the handsome white tiger - Zhao Hai, and the veteran African elephant - Ah Li, along with the adorable meerkat family, whose every move will melt the hearts of visitors.
