The Foundation · Since 1974
About Us
The Fondazione Susy Fehr – ZooCARE. More than just a zoo: protecting animals, studying them, and teaching why they are worth protecting.
Our Mission
Fifty Years of Care, A Greater Mission
Zoo al Maglio has been in existence since 1974. For fifty years, it has welcomed families, children, and curious visitors. In 2025, the Susy Fehr – ZooCARE Foundation was established to give it an even greater mission.
Not only does it provide a home for animals, but it also protects them, studies them, and educates visitors on why they are worth protecting. The Foundation is a nonprofit organization that pursues public-interest goals and is registered in the commercial register of the Canton of Ticino.
The name wasn’t chosen at random
CARE: four letters, four commitments
Every letter from ZooCARE represents a concrete commitment we make every day.
Conservation
We participate in international programs to conserve endangered species and protect natural habitats. Among our active programs are the EEP for snow leopards and ring-tailed lemurs. Every year, we organize Conservation Day to raise public awareness about the importance of protecting nature.
Animals
Every animal in our care has an individualized care plan. We provide environments tailored to the physical and behavioral needs of each species, daily environmental enrichment, and high-quality veterinary care. Each animal is monitored to ensure its health, safety, and natural behavior.
Research
We support scientific projects that advance our understanding of species and ecological dynamics. Research enables us to continuously improve the quality of care and habitats. Learn how we work.
Education
ZOO CAMP workshops, activities for schools, programs for seniors, guided tours, and team-building experiences in contact with nature and animals. We provide visitors with basic knowledge about wildlife and ecosystems, because understanding animals is the first step toward protecting them.
Our History
Why the Foundation Was Established
From Its Beginnings to the Present
From Association to Foundation
To ensure a stable future for our projects, after years marked by challenges related to the seasonal nature of our work and the association’s lack of tax-exempt status, we have decided to become a foundation. On several occasions, we found ourselves at risk of closure, and constantly living with uncertainty about the well-being of the animals and staff took an enormous toll on us.
Thanks to Philippe Daucourt’s experience in the field of foundations, we were able to create a solid and appropriate structure, even though the process was long and complex, lasting over a year and marked by new critical moments. The support of my aunt, Susy Fehr, was essential; she provided the capital needed to establish the Foundation. Shortly thereafter, she passed away suddenly, which is why the Foundation bears her name.
Recognized as a public benefit organization
Every contribution goes directly to the animals
Governance
The Foundation Board
The Foundation is led by a Board that serves in an honorary capacity.
Lavinia Sergi-Indemini
President
Stefano Bigiani
Vice President
Gracco Barberis
Member
Danijela Davidovic
Member
Sabina Fehr
Founder and Director of Zoo al Maglio
Awards
What People Say About Us
Two external certifications that validate our day-to-day work.
Swiss Location Award 2025
We received an “Excellent” rating from the Swiss Location Award® 2025, with a score of 8.4 out of 10. This achievement highlights our daily commitment to creating authentic experiences for families, schools, and children.
Excellent · 8.4/10
We are Swisstainable
Zoo al Maglio participates in the national sustainability program Swisstainable, promoted by Switzerland Tourism, and has earned Level I – Committed certification: a concrete commitment to environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
Level I · Committed
You, too, can support this mission
Every ticket you buy, every donation you make, goes directly to them. The Susy Fehr – ZooCARE Foundation is recognized as a public benefit organization: donations are tax-deductible.