Zlín Zoo joins international “Wetlands for Life” conservation campaign

Wetlands are among the world's most valuable ecosystems, yet also the most endangered. They are disappearing faster than forests, placing many wetland-dependent species at risk. The Zlín Zoo will take part in the campaign alongside other zoos from the Czech Republic and Slovakia, offering a range of themed activities and educational events for visitors and the wider public throughout the year.

World Wetlands Day is marked annually on February 2. Wetlands include not only boglands, springs and swamps, but also rivers, fishponds, mangrove forests, coral reefs, oases, salt pans, and even ordinary garden ponds. Despite their global presence, more than 64% of wetlands have been lost worldwide since 1900.

In the Czech Republic, the campaign will run under the name Mokřady pro život. Its main goal is to raise awareness of wetland conservation and the threats these ecosystems face.

Currently, the Zlín Zoo is home to more than 20 species of water birds that rely on wetland habitats. "During the campaign, we will gradually introduce our rarest species, and the topic of wetlands will also be incorporated into our traditional educational events, such as the Earth Day and World Animal Day," said Romana Mikešová, head of marketing at the Zlín Zoo.