Visiting Zoo de la Flèche
In La Flèche, within the Sarthe department, sits the zoological park of the same name. Featured prominently in a documentary series on French television, it also runs active conservation programs alongside on-site lodging facilities.
History
Back in 1946, Jacques Bouillault, a French naturalist, decided to set up a home in a cottage on the Tertre-Rouge hill right next to La Flèche. With a sizable plot of land at his disposal, he brought in numerous animals and founded the Tertre-Rouge zoological park.
By 1960, the park expanded to include a natural history museum featuring 500 taxidermy specimens of regional wildlife. Then, in 1971, a large vivarium joined the growing park.
Following a rough patch through the 1980s, the park unfortunately filed for bankruptcy in 1988. It was bought out by Raymond Da Cunha, who gave it the name Zoo de la Flèche.
The zoo continued to grow. An aquatic complex named "Marine World" opened in 1997, followed in 2000 by the addition of a falconry show to the daily attractions. The year 2000 also marked the beginning of the zoo's formal partnerships with wildlife conservation programs.
Zoo de la Flèche
The zoological park spans 18 hectares. Visitors can observe 1,600 animals representing over 160 species.
Beyond traditional animal enclosures, you will find specialized habitats like the Sumatran tiger enclosure and immersive walk-through zones such as "Nosy Komba", where you can stroll right among lemurs, tortoises, and cranes. The Asian plain exhibit features rhinoceroses, antelopes, and red pandas.
Zoo de la Flèche plays an active role in conservation, participating in roughly forty different programs across Europe. The facility also provides financial and logistical support to international programs in Brazil and Indonesia.
After a full day spent surrounded by wildlife, you can unwind in one of the park's themed lodges for a true overnight wilderness experience.
Opening hours
| Monday | 09:30-18:00 |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 09:30-18:00 |
| Wednesday | 09:30-18:00 |
| Thursday | 09:30-18:00 |
| Friday | 09:30-18:00 |
| Saturday | 09:30-18:00 |
| Sunday | 09:30-18:00 |
Aside from the small giraffe enclosure, this zoo offers well-designed and well-maintained enclosures that allow you to see quite a few animals. Some might not necessarily show themselves, but that is part of the game.
I really enjoyed watching the shows with the sea lions and the birds of prey. Check the times so you do not miss them.
As for the rest, the park is pretty clean and the signage is easy to understand. Watch out for the lines to buy food during peak hours. Bring your own snacks.