Presidential Palace Mini Zoo promotes wildlife conservation and environmental education
DÍLI, 05 July 2026 (TATOLI) — The mini zoo at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace is helping promote environmental education and wildlife conservation by encouraging children, young people and the wider public to better understand the importance of protecting nature and biodiversity.
The initiative coincides with this year’s Dili International Marathon, which is being held under the theme “Love Our Forests and Wildlife,” highlighting national efforts to encourage environmental stewardship and protect Timor-Leste’s natural heritage.
Henriqueta da Silva, Chief of the Civil House of the Presidency, said the mini zoo was established to raise environmental awareness by demonstrating that humans and animals are part of the same ecosystem and share responsibility for its preservation.
“When we want to protect our wild animals, we must first raise public awareness. The animals in this mini zoo show that they are our friends and that we, as human beings, live in the same ecosystem. Therefore, we must protect them because animals and forests make our environment more beautiful and healthier. Without them, the world would be poorer,” she said.
Da Silva said wildlife should be appreciated not only for its beauty but also for the essential role it plays in maintaining ecological balance.
“These animals teach us valuable lessons because they are also part of our ecosystem. For example, peacocks, through their dance, can signal the approach of rain. Other species also communicate changes in nature through their sounds,” she explained.
She warned that illegal hunting and deforestation continue to threaten many wildlife species by destroying their natural habitats.
“We must love our wild animals, especially our endemic species, which are part of our natural heritage. Many animals are disappearing or moving to other areas because illegal hunting and forest destruction are destroying their habitat,” she said.
Da Silva said protecting wildlife begins with education and by fostering a culture of respect and coexistence between people and animals.
“They also have families, just like we do. They need food and a place to live. Therefore, we should protect and respect them just as we protect our own families,” she added.
The mini zoo is home to a variety of species, including horses, peacocks, lorises, deer and lizards. According to da Silva, some animals were brought from Indonesia, while others were donated to President José Ramos-Horta by members of the public and various organizations.
She said the facility is intended to be more than a place to display animals. Instead, it serves as an educational space where visitors—particularly younger generations—can learn about Timor-Leste’s wildlife and the importance of conserving forests and biodiversity for future generations.
The mini zoo at the Presidential Palace was inaugurated on September 23, 2025.
TATOLI
