Tallinn Zoo, Tallinn

Tallinn Zoo is a renowned zoological park with a rich history and diverse collection of animals. Founded in 1939, it is the only zoo in Estonia and has become the most visited zoo in the Baltic states since 2009. The zoo's journey began when a team of Estonian marksmen, after winning the World Champion title in Helsinki in 1937, brought back a young lynx named Illu. This lynx, which later became the emblem of the zoo, marked the beginning of Tallinn Zoo, officially opened on August 25, 1939.

Originally located on the edge of Kadriorg Park, the zoo faced development delays due to Estonia's annexation by the Soviet Union in 1940. However, in 1983, it relocated to a spacious 89-hectare site in the Veskimetsa district. Tallinn Zoo is distinguished for having the world's largest collection of mountain goats and sheep, alongside a significant collection of eagles and owls.

The Tallinn Zoo is well-known for its extensive array of animals, ranging from giant elephants and rhinoceroses to predators, primates, polar bears, and various other exotic species. The zoo is home to more than 5,400 animals belonging to over 350 different species.

Visitors to the zoo also contribute to species conservation efforts. By purchasing donation tickets, they support the protection of endangered species like the Sumatran rhino and the small cat species, the manul, in their natural habitats. This engagement with conservation initiatives highlights the zoo's commitment to wildlife preservation beyond its boundaries, making a visit to Tallinn Zoo not just an educational experience but also a contribution to global conservation efforts.