Over 30 years as a home for endangered animals
Serving nature conservation: raising awareness through engaging experiences at Szeged Zoo
Modern zoos play a crucial role in nature conservation. In addition to species conservation programs, education and awareness-raising are key responsibilities. Since its foundation, Szeged Zoo has placed strong emphasis on environmental education and high-quality zoo pedagogy combined with entertainment.
From difficult beginnings to success
The idea of establishing a zoo in Szeged dates back to the 1960s, but implementation only began in 1985. Initially, a fenced area housed roe deer and wild boars. The original concept was to create a wildlife park showcasing native species—this is reflected in the name “Vadaspark.”
Szeged Zoo officially opened in 1989 on Children’s Day. Today, with its 45 hectares, it is the largest zoo in Hungary.
Under its first director, István Egyházi, the concept quickly evolved. From the early years, the zoo began specializing and cooperating with international conservation programs, introducing exotic species. Rare and endangered animals have been central to the collection ever since, within European breeding programs (EEP) and studbooks (ESB).
Since 1997, the zoo has also played an active role in Hungarian wildlife rescue, providing care for confiscated animals, injured protected species, and returning rehabilitated animals to the wild.
The professional reputation of the zoo was significantly shaped by its second director, Gábor Gősi, who uniquely led a breeding program in Hungary (for the cotton-top tamarin EEP).
Szeged Zoo was the first in Hungary to employ a zoo educator. Education remains a priority: since 1993, the institution has been recognized as an Environmental Education Centre, hosting more than 300 kindergarten and school groups annually.
An internationally recognized collection
Szeged Zoo has an outstanding collection of marmosets and tamarins in Europe. Its first major international conservation success was achieved with these species.
These animals are extremely sensitive and require specialized care and diet. In the wild, they consume insects, fruits, and tree sap. To replicate this, zoo experts developed a special rice-based dietary supplement now used internationally.
One of the rarest species currently housed is the bald-faced tamarin.
Major developments and iconic species
Development continued under director Róbert Veprik after 2006. The collection expanded with well-known zoo species such as lions, Siberian tigers, giraffes, seals, and Humboldt penguins, increasing visitor numbers.
A milestone was reached in 2018 with the opening of the Asian elephant complex—the largest development in the zoo’s history. This modern exhibit elevated the zoo into the ranks of major European institutions.
In 2020, a similarly large-scale rhinoceros enclosure was inaugurated. Two Indian rhinoceroses—Csülök (born in Nyíregyháza) and Akeno (from Chester, UK)—became unique highlights of the zoo.
Exceptional big cats
Visitors can encounter a remarkable variety of big cats: cheetahs, lions (including rare light-colored variants), Siberian tigers, snow leopards, North Chinese leopards, clouded leopards, pumas, lynxes, and wildcats.
Jaguars are especially popular: the female Kiara has a classic spotted coat, while the male Negro is melanistic (black). Their cubs, born since 2010, have all inherited the father’s dark coloration.
An experience that educates
Education is a core mission. Programs are tailored to different age groups:
- storytelling-based learning for younger children
- curriculum-based interactive sessions for students
- educational programs for adults
Daily animal feeding presentations (from mid-March) are among the most popular activities, offering insights into animal behavior and individual stories.
Events throughout the year—including Easter, Children’s Day, and Halloween—combine entertainment with conservation awareness. Special attention is also given to environmental awareness days, targeting both families and school groups.
Protecting rescued animals
Szeged Zoo also operates as a regional wildlife rescue centre. It regularly receives injured animals, orphaned young, and confiscated wildlife. Its location near the EU border makes it particularly important in handling illegal animal transport cases.
Sometimes hundreds of animals arrive at once. The zoo works closely with authorities, national parks, and NGOs. Some rescued animals cannot be returned to the wild and remain at the zoo, helping raise awareness about conservation.
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Szeged Zoo Nonprofit Ltd.
Postal address: 6725 Szeged, Cserepes sor 47
Visitor entrance: 6725 Szeged, Szél u. 90
Website: www.zooszeged.hu
Phone: +36 62 542 530
Email: info@zoo.szeged.hu