nature conservation

Love and care for nature: these are the fundamental principles that Artis represents. Visitors to Artis are made aware of the necessity of nature conservation. Artis also works directly to preserve animals and plants, both in Artis itself and beyond.

BREEDING PROGRAMMES

In special breeding programmes known as European Endangered Species Programmes, European zoos work together to achieve the continued survival of endangered species. The breeding programmes ensure a healthy level of genetic variety in the gene pool represented by the species of animals living in European zoos. The programmes also monitor the total number of animals. Artis coordinates the European Endangered Species Programme for the polar bear, the kantjil (Javan mouse-deer) and the black-footed penguin. If there is a European breeding programme for any of the other animal species in Artis, then Artis takes part in that breeding programme.

COLLECTION OF TREES

Besides its collection of animals, Artis also has a very extensive collection of trees. There are over 900 trees in Artis, representing over 200 species, including a number of listed historic trees. Endangered tree and plant species receive particular attention. For example, Artis has three Wollemi pine trees, one of the oldest and rarest tree species in the world.

COOPERATION

Artis also supports other organisations that pursue nature conservation activities. One of the important criteria for Artis in this context is that organisations it supports should combine nature conservation with education, as it does, demonstrating a commitment to love and care for nature, in word and in deed. In Argentina, Artis partnered with a local zoo to set up a shelter for the endangered great anteater. The first anteaters have been released into a protected nature preserve.

In cooperation with the Large Herbivore Foundation, Artis is working to preserve and release the European bison. Artis supports the national zoos of Surinam and Armenia. Both countries have a wealth of biodiversity that is seriously endangered. The national zoos also serve an important educational purpose. Awely, a French organisation, receives support from Artis for its biodiversity conservation work in Asia and Africa. Artis also supports other organisations that pursue nature conservation activities, by providing knowledge, manpower and/or financial resources. For example, Artis makes contributions to setting up animal shelters and educational institutes, improving and developing zoos, releasing animals into nature preserves, and teaching local populations about the importance of biodiversity.