Summary
In Montreal, zoos provide a distinct experience quite different from traditional concepts of animal exhibits. Instead of observing lions lounging on artificial savannahs, visitors can find golden lion tamarins joyfully swinging on branches. While tigers may be absent, one can spot the elusive lynx, a native feline predator of Canada.
What sets Montreal zoos apart is their smaller scale and a dedicated focus on showcasing wildlife indigenous to the Americas. Notably, these establishments feature unique environments, such as indoor recreations of South America’s lush tropical forests, alongside a wildlife park that proudly houses 115 species from Quebec.
Furthermore, the charm of Montreal’s zoos lies in their year-round accessibility. Every zoo, including its outdoor zoological park, remains open even during the harshness of winter, enticing wildlife enthusiasts throughout the year.
Montreal Zoo Meets Botanical Garden: The Biodome
The Montreal Biodome serves as a combination of an indoor zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden. It features a series of indoor ecological systems that replicate diverse regions of the Americas and the poles. This unique venue showcases both animal species and plant life that are native to each environment.
The Biodome meticulously mimics habitats, allowing visitors not only to see but also to experience the temperature and humidity distinctive to each ecosystem.
Ecomuseum: A Zoo, a Wildlife Park
The Ecomuseum Zoo has undergone significant transformation since its inception in 1988. Initially, the site was a wetland; however, due to urban development in the 1960s, it became a landfill during the expansion of Highway 40. Fortunately, the St. Lawrence Valley Natural History Society recognized the ecological importance of the area and has diligently worked to restore it, enabling the Ecomuseum to flourish as a prominent zoological park.
Montreal Insectarium: It’s Technically a Zoo, Sort Of
The Montreal Insectarium might not fit the conventional zoo definition since it primarily focuses on arthropods. Much of the collection consists of over 150,000 specimens, many of which are not alive. However, visitors can still encounter a variety of live species, including scarabs, tarantulas, and scorpions among the approximately one hundred living exhibits displayed.
This attraction is particularly appealing to children, featuring interactive exhibits and knowledgeable staff dedicated to educating the public about the fascinating world of insects.
The Redpath Museum: Not a Zoo at All, But…
The Redpath Museum is quite unique, as it houses a collection primarily consisting of deceased animals, including some that are prehistoric. Nevertheless, this free admission venue is a treasure trove for zoology and paleontology enthusiasts. With nearly three million objects, it provides an extensive overview of natural sciences, featuring everything from dinosaur bones and various fossils to taxidermied animal specimens.
Moreover, the museum’s collection includes intriguing artifacts, such as Egyptian mummies and a shrunken head, making it a captivating destination for those interested in ethnology as well.
