{
  "id": 19952363,
  "title": "6 massive zoos around the world every animal lover should explore",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/14/6-massive-zoos-around-the-world-every-animal-lover-should-explore-19952363",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-11-14T08:30:31.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Indian Express - Lifestyle",
    "slug": "the-indian-express-lifestyle",
    "url": "https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/pets-animals/6-massive-zoos-around-world-every-animal-lover-10937004/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "For animal enthusiasts, a visit to a zoo offers more than glimpses of tigers or giraffes feeding. Some zoos are so vast that fully exploring their animal habitats and exhibits can consume an entire day. Across India, North America, and Europe, here are six major zoos that are worth including on any traveler's bucket list, whether they have a penchant for big cats, exotic creatures, or wildlife from around the globe.\n\n1. Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park in Tirupati, India: Nestled against the Seshachalam Hills in Andhra Pradesh, this expansive park spans roughly 1,255 hectares. Although much of the land is not open to visitors, its themed exhibits draw inspiration from Indian mythology and showcase a diverse collection of mammals, birds, and reptiles. The expansive grounds and natural surroundings make this a destination worth dedicating several hours to explore.\n\n2. Arignar Anna Zoological Park in Chennai, India: Located in Vandalur, Chennai, this 602-hectare zoo is among India's largest. Established in 1855, it houses animals like lions, tigers, elephants, rhinoceroses, and crocodiles. Beyond providing an enjoyable experience for families and animal lovers, the park also participates in conservation breeding efforts and wildlife education.\n\n3. North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro, United States: Spanning over 2,800 acres, this North Carolina attraction is renowned for its expansive, naturalistic habitats. With over 1,700 animals under its care, the zoo's exhibits are inspired by African and North American ecosystems. Visitors can observe creatures such as giraffes, elephants, and rhinoceroses while strolling along the zoo's extensive walking trails.\n\n4. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio, United States: Covering approximately 580 acres, this zoo is home to hundreds of animal species. Its themed regions, including Heart of Africa, Asia Quest, and Congo Expedition, allow visitors to discover wildlife from various parts of the world in a single destination. The zoo is also actively engaged in conservation programs aimed at protecting threatened species.\n\n5. Toronto Zoo in Canada: Encompassing roughly 284 hectares, Toronto Zoo is Canada's largest. Organized into seven geographical regions, including Africa, Indo-Malaya, Australasia, and Tundra Trek, the zoo's layout immerses visitors in habitats inspired by different climates and ecosystems. This single visit offers a chance to encounter animals from tropical forests, grasslands, and colder regions.\n\n6. Zoo Berlin in Germany: Unlike the large American zoos on this list, Zoo Berlin is celebrated for its remarkable diversity of animal collection rather than its size. Founded in 1844, it is Germany's oldest zoo and houses thousands of animals representing hundreds of species. Situated in Berlin's Tiergarten district, it offers an appealing option for visitors who want to see a wide variety of wildlife without navigating an enormous site.\n\nBefore planning a visit, check each zoo's official website for current opening hours, ticket prices, and animal exhibits. For larger zoos, comfortable walking shoes and advance planning can ensure a more enjoyable and efficient visit.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
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  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}