The Gaia Park is a relatively new zoo, located in the town of Kerkrade. Itincludes more than 80 species of animal, all housed in modern environments which are as close to their natural habitats as possible. The animals are treated very well, and the zoo operates animal breeding programmes which are a part of the European Endangered Species Programme. The zoo aims to raise awareness about the need for conservation and protection of animals, and follows the ’Gaia theory’ which views Earth as a living planet.