Insect forest
The insect forest, embedded in the big cat habitat Panthera, is home to the smallest animals in the zoo. It provides a habitat for up to 1000 animals from over 10 different species of insects, arthropods and spiders.
Up close to the animals
A special feature of the insect forest is the direct encounter between animals and zoo guests, without separating panes or other barriers. This is unique in the world in this form and size.
Up close: In the insect forest there is no separation between animal and zoo guest. Photo: Zoo Zurich, Charles Negre
An unexplored realm
Knowledge about invertebrates and their endangerment is still in its infancy. An immensely large proportion of this most species-rich animal class has probably not even been discovered yet. At the same time, the pressure on insects is great. The biomass of flying insects alone has decreased by around 75 percent in recent decades.
Pachnoda marginata peregrina is known for its shiny, mostly yellow-black patterned shell. Photo: Zoo Zurich, Charles Negre
Invertebrates form the backbone of biodiversity. Insects & co. are food for countless other animal species. They also ensure that ecosystems remain intact: We owe them healthy soils, the pollination of plants, the decomposition of excrement and carcasses.
The black beauty stick insect has conspicuous small wings; however, it cannot fly with them. This insect is threatened with extinction. Photo: Zoo Zurich, Charles Negre
Insects from far away
Inside the insect forest, zoo visitors will encounter exotic species of insects, arthropods and spiders. In the long term, it is mainly endangered species that will live here and which we hope to breed successfully.
All the inhabitants of the insect forest are listed here:
Not an insect, but still to be found in the insect forest: Telodeinopus aoutii. Photo: Zoo Zurich, Charles Negre
Insects on the doorstep
In the entrance area to the insect forest, native insect species find a habitat with a natural food supply and various nesting possibilities.
In our practical tips, we show how anyone can create such nesting aids themselves:
Eurycantha horrida lives solitary. Photo: Zoo Zurich, Charles Negre
Looking for Godparents
Another way of doing good for insects is our insect sponsorship. It is available in the following variants:
With a sponsorship, you support us in keeping these amazing animals and make an important contribution to species conservation. Thank you very much!
The Giant tailless whip spider can move very quickly – and does so, like a crab, sideways. Photo: Zoo Zurich, Charles Negre
