Myanmar’s oldest zoo marks 120 years of wildlife conservation, education

Celebrations marking the 120th anniversary of the Yangon Zoological Gardens, the oldest zoo in Myanmar, began on Saturday. The event drew generations of visitors, with families and school groups exploring the grounds and reminiscing about cherished childhood memories.

“The zoo is an excellent place for children to observe animals. I visited frequently when I was young, and being here brings back many childhood memories,” said Saw Wai Phyo, 30, who came with four family members. “Now my son is seeing the animals, and I want him to learn about them as well.”

Hnin Hnin Yi, 61, visited with about 20 relatives to celebrate her grandchild’s birthday. She has been coming to the zoo since she was 12 years old.

“The zoo is a pleasant place where we can see a wide variety of animals. I am very happy to celebrate its 120th anniversary and hope it will continue for many more years,” she said.

Aung Khant Kyaw, a 25-year-old teacher who visited with about 50 students, highlighted the zoo’s educational value.

“Students usually see animals only in books, but observing them in real life helps them understand their nature and habits better. Yangon Zoological Gardens is also part of our childhood memories, and I hope it will be preserved for many years,” he said.

Su Su Htwe, 35, visited the zoo with her two children. She recalled visiting as a child, when her family would bring lunch boxes and spend the whole day at the zoo. “It was unforgettable — a memory I can never return to,” she said.

She also praised the zoo staff and animal keepers for their dedication. “It is because of the keepers that the zoo still exists and remains such a special place for families and children. Their meticulous care allows the animals to enjoy longer and healthier lives,” she said.

People pose for photos at the Yangon Zoological Gardens in Yangon, Myanmar, Jan. 31, 2026. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe)

Zoo staff expressed their dedication and pride in their long service. Kyaw Oo, 65, who has worked as an animal keeper for over 40 years, highlighted the advantages of zoo life. “In the wild, animals often struggle to find enough food, but here they live longer, healthier lives thanks to our dedicated care,” he explained.

“Once we understand their habits and they become familiar with us, it is easier to approach and handle them safely,” he said.

Red panda keeper Than Than Htay outlined her daily care routines, including health checks, enclosure cleanliness and providing a steady supply of fresh bamboo leaves.

“I once cared for a red panda for more than 20 years. In the wild, red pandas rarely live that long,” she said. Currently, the zoo is home to about 10 red pandas.

According to Than Myint Tun, warden of Yangon Zoological Gardens, the zoo is not only a sanctuary for wildlife but also a place of learning for future generations.

“The zoo contributes to ecosystem conservation and plays an important role in breeding and preserving endangered wildlife,” he said.

To mark the anniversary, the zoo organized cultural performances, children’s programs and public engagement events. Renovations are also carried out regularly to improve facilities and meet modern standards.

Founded in 1906, Yangon Zoological Gardens is one of the oldest in Southeast Asia. At present, it is home to about 140 species of mammals, birds and reptiles, with a total population of over 1,400 animals.