The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa in Pretoria, or the Pretoria Zoo, is considered to be one of the 10 best in the world, extends over an area of about 80 ha. In 2003, the Zoo attracted 523 072 visitors. The zoo celebrated its centenary in October 1999.
On 1 January 2004, the Zoo's collection included 569 specimens of 97 mammal species, 1 091 specimens of 136 bird species, 14 184 specimens of 275 fish species, 56 specimens of 15 invertebrate species, 382 specimens of 90 reptile species, and 69 specimens of six amphibian species. The animal collections at the two game-breeding centres include 1 574 specimens of 52 mammal species and 97 specimens of 20 bird species.
The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa created a zoo and animal park at the Emerald Safari Resort and Casino in Vanderbijlpark. The resulting Animal World covers 314 ha consisting of a game park and zoo, which house, among others, rhino, buffalo, hippo, wild dog and a variety of bird and animal species.
The Emerald Safari Resort has 303 specimens of 44 mammal species, 212 specimens of 52 bird species, 63 species of 27 reptile species, and three specimens of three species of amphibians. All the animals were provided by the Pretoria Zoo and its two satellite breeding centres.
In March 2004, the National Zoological Gardens was declared a national research facility, subject to the provisions of the National Research Foundation (NRF). This presents a remarkable opportunity for the Zoo to reposition itself as one of the world leaders in breeding and researching endangered species. It is the only zoo in South Africa with national status and is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums; the Pan-African Association of Zoological Gardens, Aquaria and Botanical Gardens; the International Union of Zooculturists; and the International Association of Zoo Educators.
The Johannesburg Zoological Gardens, or Johannesburg Zoo, covering some 81 ha and boasting more than 10 000 animals, celebrated its 100th birthday in 2004.
In January 2004, four southern screamers (a rare type of South American waterfowl), made their appearance at the Johannesburg Zoo the first time such birds had ever hatched in South Africa.
The Zoo is also renowned for its other successful programmes for breeding several endangered South African bird species such as the wattled crane and ground hornbill.
The animals are kept in open-air enclosures, separated from the public by dry or water moats. The enclosures include the internationally acclaimed gorilla complex, the pachyderm section and the section for large carnivores.
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