The Zoo in Helsingborg
This private zoo originally started as a personal bird collection many years ago. It opened to the public in 2001 as "Fågelparken" (The Bird Park), and at that time only kept birds.
As we know, bird parks tend to struggle today, especially in Sweden where interest in birds seems fairly low. That likely played a role in the park expanding with more mammals and rebranding as Helsingborgs Djurpark. Even so, it's still very obvious that this began as a bird park. Birds make up the majority of the collection, including both common and rarer species.
From a species collector perspective, this is where the park really stands out. The collection has included some quite rare species over the years, particularly among parrots and Estrildidae. To me, this is the most interesting public bird collection in Sweden, especially if you're looking for unusual species.
It's a fairly small park, but the layout is pleasant. Very green and cozy, with a forest-like atmosphere. Small aviaries, buildings, ponds, and enclosures are spread along a winding path, which makes it nice to walk through. Parts of the park feel a bit dated, especially the tropical house, but the collection more than makes up for it.
If you're into birds, this is absolutely worth a visit if you're in the area. It may not be the biggest zoo in Sweden, but if you're interested in bird species, especially the less common ones, I don't think there's a better place to visit.
White-bellied crimson finch (Neochmia phaeton evangelinae)
Bank myna (Acridotheres ginginianus)
Lesser Antillean bullfinch (Loxigilla noctis)
Red-lored amazon (Amazona autumnalis autumnalis)
Grey-headed silverbill (Spermestes griseicapilla)
General Information
Opened: 2001 (originally established as Fågelparken)
Location: Påarp, near Helsingborg, Sweden
Type: Privately operated zoo and family amusement park
Helsingborgs Djurpark, also known as The Zoo in Helsingborg, is a privately operated zoological park located in Påarp, just outside Helsingborg in southern Sweden. The park began in 2001 as Fågelparken, founded by Mats Hafström and his family, and initially focused on birds and tropical butterflies. After approximately eight years, the collection expanded to include a wider variety of animals, and the park became known as Helsingborgs Djurpark. Today, the park is home to animals from different parts of the world, including colourful parrots, lemurs and kangaroos, alongside smaller domestic animals in its children's zoo. The grounds combine animal enclosures and aviaries with landscaped surroundings and family-oriented recreational facilities. In 2014, a separate amusement and play area was added, further developing the park into a destination combining animal experiences with activities for children and families.
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