Nature conservation
Nature conservation is one of the main goals of our park. We see it as our mission to protect and preserve (endangered) animal species and to let as many people as possible experience the wonders of nature. Together with nature, we want to inspire people, teach people, influence their behaviour where possible and allow them to enjoy everything that nature has to give. We are also committed to nature conservation outside our park.
Belize
Because so many fish are born there, mangroves are often called the nurseries of the sea. The fish find shelter between the roots as juveniles and move into the open ocean as adults. Unfortunately, mangroves are severely endangered and are disappearing worldwide at an alarming rate. We are committed to protecting these vulnerable habitats, which is why we have been protecting a nature reserve in Belize, with a surface area of approximately 400 square kilometres–almost six times the size of National Park De Hoge Veluwe–for almost thirty years.
Belize
Lucie Burgers foundation
The Lucie Burgers Foundation encourages and facilitates comparative behavioural research in animals. The aim is to promote research in ecology and the natural behaviour of animals, with the purpose that the nature reserves where these species live can be better and more efficiently conserved and that endangered species can be protected for the future. The foundation supports research into the behaviour and living conditions of species in the wild.
Lucie Burgers foundation
Future For Nature
Burgers’ Zoo is the official sponsor of the Future for Nature Foundation. This foundation annually presents the Future for Nature Awards to three young and upcoming nature conservationists who have achieved remarkable results in the field of nature conservation. Every year, dozens of projects are submitted to an international jury of experts for assessment. In addition to the Future for Nature Award, each winner receives €50,000 to spend on their nature conservation work.
Future For NatureWe are also active members of the following nature conservation organisations:
EAZA
Together with 300 other European zoos, Burgers’ Zoo is part of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA). Besides creating awareness, a modern zoo must actively protect animals and nature. In addition to informing and raising awareness among the millions of visitors, funding campaigns are organised so that zoo visitors can voluntarily donate to concrete projects within the EAZA.
GlobeGuards
Fortunately, many people are wholeheartedly committed to the protection of animals and the preservation of nature. They put their money where their mouth is, establish foundations and work hard to make a real difference for ‘their’ animal species or ‘their’ nature reserve. GlobeGuards, an umbrella foundation, helps join forces and offers a platform for exchanging experiences.
NVD
The Dutch Association of Zoos (NVD) is a collaboration between all Dutch zoos. The association supports small and large nature conservation projects all over the world. Nature conservation, education, research and the protection of endangered species are among the most important objectives of the member zoos. Being a member of the NVD mainly concerns giving financial support, but our knowledge and experience are also regularly requested.