The Masoala Rainforest at Zurich Zoo

The Masoala Rainforest is the centrepiece of the zoo’s nature conservation strategy. In the Masoala Rainforest, you can find out about why the forests are disappearing as well as learn about projects with the aim of conserving the forests. The Masoala Rainforest at the zoo attracts donations providing one third of long-term funding needed to conserve the Masoala National Park. Promoting sustainable tourism also brings money to this region and provides the national park with economic benefits. Modest development schemes for neighbouring villages are also an essential part of the project supported by the Wildlife Conservation Society and Madagascar National Park Authority ANGAP. Local villages also accept responsibility and are integrated into the park scheme.

Facts and figures about the Masoala Rainforest at Zurich Zoo

Scale

Width: 90 m
Length: 120 m
Height: 30 m
Overall area: 11,000 m2

Climate

Temperature: 20 - 30°C
Humidity: approx. 80%
Rainfall: approx. 80,000 litres/day

Plants and animals

Plants and trees: approx. 17,000 (several hundred species)
Animals: approx. 430 (approx. 60 species)

Architecture

Foil roof: approx. 14,000 m2
Steel supports: 10, vertical installation

Technical and electrical systems

Hot air extraction system: 25 m, flue extracts hot air from below the inlet
Air inlets: 52, take cooled air into the main hall
Storage: 250 m3, stores surplus hot air

Masoala Partners