International Conference ZOOFanatika: Supporting Ukrainian Zoos
At the international conference ZOOFanatika, which took place at the Lubin Zoo (Poland) from April 11 to 13, 2025, directors of six Ukrainian zoos, members of AZU, participated.
Representing Ukraine were:
- Volodymyr Topchiy (President of AZU, Director of Mykolaiv Zoo)
- Yevheniy Van (Cherkasy Zoo Roshen)
- Oleh Pavliuk (Rivne Zoo)
- Ludmila Denysenko (Lutsk Zoo)
- Serhiy Kostiiv (Limpopo Zoo)
- Igor Bilyakov (Odesa Zoo)
This year's ZOOFanatika was dedicated to supporting Ukrainian zoos in challenging times.
“The situation for Ukrainian zoos is critical, and financial difficulties are increasing. Initial support from Europe has decreased, and challenges are multiplying every day,” the organizers stated.
On the first day of the conference, Volodymyr Topchiy presented a report titled “Ukrainian Zoos in Wartime,” while the Lutsk, Mykolaiv, and Cherkasy zoos showcased video materials about their efforts in the context of conflict.
A traditional element of ZOOFanatika is the auction where items related to zoo activities are sold. This year, all proceeds from the auction went to support Ukrainian zoos. One of the auction items was a fragment of a missile that struck the Mykolaiv Zoo.
During the event, Volodymyr Topchiy awarded a commemorative prize for the “120th anniversary of Mykolaiv Zoo” to Warsaw Zoo director Andrzej Krushevich, who has actively supported Ukrainian zoological institutions.
Meetings with Czech Colleagues
After the conference, the Ukrainian zoo representatives met with their Czech counterparts.
In particular, at the Prague Zoo, Volodymyr Topchiy presented the commemorative sign “Order of Leontovych” to Zoo Director Miroslav Bobek. Our colleagues had the opportunity to view new exhibits featuring gorillas and learn about the construction of the new Arctic Exhibit (budget — €50 million).
At the end of their trip, AZU zoo directors visited the Safari Park “Dvur Kralove,” where they explored the okapi exhibit. Zoo Director Mr. Przemysl Rabas shared insights into “Dvur Kralove’s” experience in conserving white rhinos.
At the conclusion of the meeting, AZU President Volodymyr Topchiy presented a commemorative award for the “120th anniversary of Mykolaiv Zoo.”
