Sibiu Zoo

Sibiu Zoo stands at Calea Dumbrăvii 142, in Dumbrava Forest, next to the ASTRA Museum of Traditional Folk Civilisation. Its grounds are surrounded by the Dumbrava Sibiului nature reserve (officially „Parcul Natural Dumbrava Sibiului”) but are not part of the protected area. The Trinkbach stream, which crosses the forest, forms artificial lakes, one of which lies within the zoo grounds. The zoo opened in 1929 and is considered the oldest in the country. It is classed as a natural science institution, with animals from Romanian and foreign fauna, and is run by Sibiu Local Council; in 2010 it operated as the Public Service Sibiu Municipal Zoo. It covers about 20 hectares. The zoo houses more than 320 animals. Animals mentioned in the local press include lions, jaguars, monkeys, zebras, a crocodile, African ostriches and coypus. In October 2022 an Animal Farm opened at the entrance from Dumbrava Forest, where children can touch ducks, geese, ponies, miniature cows, sheep and goats; the investment of 774,000 lei came from the local budget, and the farm can be visited at no extra charge. The zoo lies at the south-western end of the city, towards Rășinari, and a visit can be combined with a walk in Dumbrava Forest or with the ASTRA Museum. Opening hours differ between the summer and winter seasons.