We visited Landgoed Hoenderdael in Anna Paulowna. It has been 11 years since we last visited here. Back then it was a very small animal park. In recent years they have grown tremendously and accommodated many more animals. The park is home to two foundations dedicated to animals in need, but the park has also taken in animals from special and/or unpleasant circumstances. For example, there is a very large aviary where several species of macaws live. Most of the macaws have been relinquished by their owners. The brown bears have been rescued from an old breeding station, nose bears and raccoons have been given shelter for Foundation AAP. Most storks come from Poland where they have been traffic victims and can no longer fly. And a few other bird species have been offered shelter.
The Lion Foundation takes in large felines in need. If possible, the shelter is temporary and the animals are prepared for return to their country of origin. The animals taken in come from individuals, for example, are former circus animals or have been rescued from war situations.
Stichting SOS Dolfijn is a nature organization specializing in providing assistance to cetaceans. The organization provides assistance to porpoises, dolphins and whales in distress that end up alive on the Dutch coast or are in danger of becoming stranded. An experienced team of specialists is on standby day and night. SOS Dolfijn is a worldwide expert in care and rehabilitation of small cetaceans, mainly porpoises, with high success rates and many animals returned to the wild after recovery.
Here are some photo impressions:
