The Bârlad Zoo (Grădina Zoologică Bârlad) is a zoological garden in the northern part of Bârlad, set within the Public Garden and covering about 5.6 hectares. Founded in 1959, it developed from a small zoological corner into one of the largest zoos in Moldavia.
The zoo was created by the natural-sciences section of the Vasile Pârvan Museum and initially consisted of little more than a shelter for a single bear. Public interest encouraged its rapid expansion, and most of the early animal collection was assembled during the following decade. The zoo remained part of the museum until 1971, when it became a separate municipal institution.
The collection now includes native and exotic mammals, birds and reptiles. Separate pavilions house constrictor snakes, an American alligator, green iguanas and a large collection of exotic birds, while the outdoor enclosures include lions, Bengal tigers, jaguars, monkeys, raccoons and other species.
Modernization work has enlarged several animal enclosures and renewed parts of the visitor infrastructure, including paths and drainage. The zoo is one of the main family attractions in Bârlad and receives tens of thousands of visitors each year.
