Brook Valley Zoo
(Former Wisbroek Breeding Center)

Brook Valley Zoo
I’ve heard about the Wisbroek Breeding Center for years and always wanted to visit. So when a zoo friend invited me along for their open day, I said yes right away.

After an early start and about four hours of driving, we ended up being the very first car in the parking lot, and the first visitors inside. That gave me a short window to photograph the facility while it was still quiet, with relaxed birds and empty paths. A few minutes later the long aviary rows were packed with people, so I’m glad I got in early.

This is a really lovely collection. Rows of aviaries filled mainly with birds of paradise, cranes, birds of prey, and many other bird groups. From a species collector's perspective, it’s a very strong place, with lots of rare and interesting taxa that you don’t often get to see concentrated in one location. 

The layout is simple and functional, very much focused on the birds rather than presentation, which fits the breeding-center feel. You walk along long lines of aviaries and can just move at your own pace.

Overall, this was absolutely worth the trip, and I’m already looking forward to visiting again.