The History of the Zoo

The Jardin aux Oiseaux (now Upie Zoo): A Passion-Driven Creation

The Jardin aux Oiseaux, now known as the Upie Zoo, was founded in 1976 as a private initiative by a passionate bird enthusiast and nature lover.

What started as 4 hectares of wasteland has now expanded to 6 hectares, where lush Mediterranean vegetation generously shades the pathways, creating a natural and welcoming environment for both animals and visitors.

Great care has been taken in the presentation of the birds, ensuring that each species’ natural habitat is respected for their well-being. The park features three water bodies, large enclosures, and aviaries harmoniously integrated into the greenery, offering a serene and immersive experience for all.

The History of Upie Zoo

🔹 1976: Opening of the Jardin aux Oiseaux to the public after nearly a year of development work on an old farm and surrounding fields—amid a severe drought!

🔹 1983: The Jardin aux Oiseaux is classified as a “cultural and tourist establishment” by the Drôme prefecture.

🔹 1988: Recognized as the most important private breeding center in France by the National Syndicate of Zoological Parks (SNDPZ).

🔹 1991: The Jardin aux Oiseaux expands by 2 hectares, increasing its total area to 6 hectares. That same year, the park opens its Tropical Greenhouse—the only one of its kind in France—designed to accommodate delicate species.

🔹 1992: Creation of a Mini Farm, offering an interactive experience for children and adults alike.

🔹 Easter 1995: As a pioneer among French zoos, the park introduces two daily animal shows from April to September: a parrot show (featuring birds in free flight and training exercises) and a bird of prey show (with raptors in flight).

🔹 1999: A devastating snowstorm destroys 50% of the park’s vegetation and aviaries. Fortunately, most birds are safely sheltered, but the zoo is forced to close for three months to rebuild, supported by an incredible wave of solidarity.

🔹 2003: The park endures the extreme heatwave of 2003. Thanks to the dedication of the animal care team, no losses are recorded.

🔹 2005: Major changes: a new entrance on Route de Montoison and a new souvenir shop.

🔹 2006: The 30th anniversary of the Jardin aux Oiseaux!

🔹 2008: Creation of a children’s play area.

🔹 2009: Introduction of a sensory game, arrival of Saarloos wolfdogs and zebus.

🔹 2010: The zoo’s efforts are rewarded with the Bronze Medal for Tourism.

🔹 2011: The Jardin aux Oiseaux celebrates 35 years, welcoming wallabies.

🔹 2012: Creation of outdoor aviaries for the Tropical Greenhouse, arrival of lesser flamingos.

🔹 2013: Installation of educational panels throughout the park and the birth of a vulture.

🔹 2014: Opening of an inflatable play area.

🔹 2015: Arrival of a Buffon’s macaw couple, a species part of the EEP conservation program.

🔹 2018: Creation of a walk-through aviary.

🔹 2019: Arrival of porcupines, meerkats, and lemurs.

🔹 Summer 2019: Presentation of ring-tailed lemurs and red-bellied lemurs, creation of a special enclosure for Hermann’s tortoises.

🔹 Winter 2019: A heavy snowstorm in November devastates the park, delaying reopening until February 2020. Just three weeks later, the zoo is forced to close again due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

🔹 2020: Arrival of Red ruffed lemurs, a new species in the Malagasy zone.

🔹 2021: First phase of the South American aviary is completed, welcoming white-lipped tamarins and red-footed tortoises.

🔹 2022: Second phase of the South American aviary, introducing white-tufted marmosets, emperor tamarins, and yellow-footed tortoises.

🔹 2023:

 Two six-banded armadillos settle into their new South American habitat.

 Fennec foxes join the African zone.

 Opening of a small vivarium at the zoo.

🔹 2024: Creation of The Serval Refuge!

 For the first time in the zoo’s historyfelids are welcomed.

 Three servals, rescued from illegal captivity, arrive at Upie Zoo in May after rehabilitation at the Tonga Terre d’Accueil Wildlife Refuge.

The Upie Zoo continues to grow, playing an essential role in conservation, education, and wildlife protection! 🦜🌿